Transdermal Scopolamine in the Hyperbaric Environment.
Abstract
The effect of transdermal scopolamine on the behavior of divers under pressure was evaluated during a 5 1/2 day, 60 feet of sea water (FSW) (2.8 ATA) air saturation dive. Ten Navy divers were administered either the drug or a placebo in the single-blind study during and after the dive. In both drug and placebo conditions, diver cognitive performance was assessed 12 to 14 hours post-administration using a test of memory and attention from the Performance Measurement System. There were no significant differences in group performance on the cognitive test as a function of drug or pressure conditions. Standardized clinical questions were also asked upon completion of the testing to document any side effects of the drug or placebo. Pre-dive, six divers given transdermal scopolamine had no side effects, three had dry mouth, and two reported mild malaise or mental fuzziness. At 60 FSW, two divers had no side effects, and eight divers reported dry mouth, Other side effects reported were two cases of mild malaise or mental fuzziness, one case of clumsiness, and one case of difficulty with visual focus. Post-drive (nine divers participating), three divers had no side effects, five had dry mouth, four had drowsiness, two had itching of path site, one had dilation eye, and one had trouble with visual focus. During placebo administration one diver reported mental fuzziness at 60 FSW, and post-dive one reported giddiness, and another had dry mouth. No unusual symptoms were seen as function of drug, pressure, or their interaction. Keywords: Saturation Diving; Motion Sickness.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA178236
Entities
People
- H. J. Schwartz
- M. D. Curley
Organizations
- United States Navy Experimental Diving Unit