Australia is a land of epic adventures. Whether you're crossing the Great Australian Bight on a cruise, tackling the winding roads of the Blue Mountains, or heading out for a deep-sea fishing trip off the coast of WA, there is one thing that can ruin the fun: Motion Sickness.
If you’ve ever felt that dreaded "green" feeling, you aren't alone. In this comprehensive guide, we go beyond the standard advice. We dive into the science of why you get sick and explore the high-performance solutions available at NCC, including our specialized Scopolamine Topical Sticks and Triple-Action Capsules.
The Science of Sea Sickness: What’s Happening?
Motion sickness isn't just "all in your head," but it does start there. Scientists believe that Scopolamine, the gold-standard active ingredient in our treatments, works by blocking acetylcholine. This prevents the frantic communication between the nerves in your inner ear (the vestibule) and the vomiting center in your brain.
By effectively "muting" the sensory conflict—where your ears feel the waves but your eyes see a stationary boat cabin—Scopolamine helps you maintain your cool even when the ocean is rough.
Meet the NCC Solutions: Sticks vs. Capsules
At NCC, we offer two primary ways to combat travel sickness, each designed for different needs and preferences.
The Scopolamine Topical Stick (2mg/g)
This is a game-changer for those who hate swallowing pills or want targeted relief.
-
The Format: A 5-gram stick that is portable and mess-free.
-
The Application: You apply it directly behind the ear or on the inner wrist.
-
The Pro-Tip: If you need a faster "hit," rub your wrists vigorously together immediately after application to "dose dump" the medicine into your system faster.
The Scopolamine Capsules (Triple-Action Formula)
For those who prefer the traditional route, our capsules pack a serious punch with three key ingredients:
-
Scopolamine (200mcg): To block the nausea signals.
-
Chlorpheniramine (2mg): An anticholinergic antihistamine that reduces acetylcholine levels in the brain to fight motion sickness.
-
Caffeine (100mg): Because both Scopolamine and Chlorpheniramine can make you drowsy, we’ve added caffeine to counteract those sedative side effects, keeping you awake for the adventure.
How to Use: Timing is Everything!
The most common mistake for Aussies is waiting until they are unwell before they do something about it. It is all about the prevention.
-
Age Restriction: These items are for patients 12 years of age or older only. We don’t have data for use under 12 yet.
-
The 60-Minute Rule: Whether in stick or capsule form, you need to apply/take it a full 60 minutes before “wheels-up”.
-
Repeat Dosing: If you are on a long flight and need more, take another dose after 8-12 hours if needed.
Specific Stick Instructions: You only need to apply the stick to a zone the size of a 20-cent piece. Massage the area firmly in two full circles. If you’re getting side effects (say a very dry mouth), perhaps use less on a 10-cent size patch next time.
Safety First: What You Need to Know
Although our product is highly effective, all medications have risks. Knowing your body's response is essential.
Side Effects to Watch For
These medications have “anticholinergic” properties, and as a result can lead to:
-
Frequently: Dry mouth, decreased perspiration, or rapid heart rate.
-
Sometimes: Difficulty urinating or skin conditions, such as dyshidrosis.
-
Less Common: Allergic reaction, such as a skin rash or, in the most extreme cases, anaphylaxis.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
We strongly suggest caution here.
-
Pregnancy: Scopolamine is a Pregnancy Category C agent and may cross the placenta. Pregnant women should not use it.
-
Breastfeeding: As the drug passes into breast milk, nursing mothers should not take it.
Storage and Care
Our Topical Stick is a specialized formula. We recommend keeping it in the fridge. This isn't because the ingredients will go bad, but because the stick itself can melt in the harsh Australian heat. Keeping it cool ensures it stays in the right format for application.
Key Takeaways
-
Custom is King: We’re not the pre-sticky-backed paper crap you get at the chemist. NCC’s products are expertly custom-compounded based on how great you’d like to feel, regardless of whether you're a salty sea dog or road trip rook.
-
The Power of Three: Our capsules won’t simply knock out the spins, but will keep you alert thanks to our triple-action blend.
-
Stick it to 'Em: The NCC Sea Sickness Stick is a no-mess, on-the-go life saver.
-
Timing is Everything: Do not wait until you are green. Both the stick and capsules require a 60-minute head start.
-
Aussie Expertise: Every product is developed right here in our Aussie Lab to meet the very high Aus spec safety standard.
Bonus: The "No-Vomit" Lifestyle Protocol
-
Watch the Diet: Avoid greasy, high-fat foods before travel.
-
Limit Alcohol: Alcohol can worsen dizziness and interact with your meds.
-
Stare at the Horizon: Give your eyes a stable reference point.
-
Ginger Vitamins: Ginger is a natural stomach soother to settle your tummy alongside NCC meds.
FAQs:
1. When should I actually use the stick or take the capsule?
It’s all about the timing, mate! You also want to take the stick or pop the capsule at least 60 minutes before you board that boat or hit the road. If you take it only once you’re feeling a little queasy, your stomach is already starting to slow down and won’t do as good a job soaking up the medicine. Pre-loading is the way to go!
2. I’m driving the 4WD—will these make me drowsy?
We know you’ve gotta keep focused on the Bruce Highway! Some travel meds can make you a bit “dopey”, but our capsules contain Caffeine to help stave off that sluggish feeling. If you are using the stick and it makes you a little drowsy, apply less (test with a smaller area, say 10 10-cent coin size) next time.
3. Is it safe, and what are the side effects?
Anything to be aware of? Most people fly through without any problems, but because these are “anticholinergic” medications, you may experience a little dry mouth or a slight increase in heart rate. If you’re using the stick and things seem a little too much, simply rinse it off and use less (perhaps just a 10-cent-size patch, which is more than enough) next time. If you’re concerned, speak to our pharmacists and Vets one-on-one!
4. What’s this “compounded” stuff, you may wonder? And how is it different from what’s at the supermarket?
Some of the stuff at the supermarket is a bit like “one-size-fits-all,” but we all know every Aussie is different. Since we compound our own, you can have the strength customized to your taste, leave out any dodgy fillers you happen to be allergic to or otherwise opposed to, and get delivery formats like the Stick that you won’t find on any old standard shelf. It’s custom care for your belly!
