Effect of transdermal scopolamine on salivation.

The effect of transdermal scopolamine on salivary flow and composition was analyzed in 21 healthy volunteers. The flow rate of whole saliva was significantly lowered by transdermal scopolamine. Significant positive correlations were found between the placebo rate of flow and both the quantity and percentage decreases in response to transdermal scopolamine. The magnesium concentration was significantly increased during transdermal scopolamine administration, whereas the sodium, potassium, and calcium concentrations were not consistently altered. Accordingly, the magnesium secretion rate was unaltered, whereas sodium, potassium, and calcium secretion rates were significantly lowered by transdermal scopolamine administration.