Scopolamine in pill form (Scopace) is an alternative to the patch. The chief advantage is the dosing flexibility; the fixed dose from the patch may be excessive for small individuals while inadequate for larger people. Scopace tablets allow sailors to regulate the amount of scopolamine to minimize the side effects by taking the lowest effective dose. The current recommendation is 1-2 tablets (0.4 mg) one hour prior to departure, and another 1-2 tablets every 8 hours as needed.

ANTIHISTAMINES

The antihistamines Bonine and Dramamine are available over-the-counter without a prescription and they are effective for many sailors. The popular antihistamine Stugeron (Cinnarizine), although not sold in the US, is available in other countries. Many sailors claim it has the fewest side effects.

However, over-the-counter antihistamines do have potential side effects. They include drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, irritability, urinary retention, dizziness, and headache. Sudafed, an over-the-counter decongestant, or Nodoz, a caffeine pill, may counteract the drowsiness caused by antihistamines.

Alternative and natural therapies are beneficial for some boaters, although there are no conclusive studies proving that they work. Vitamin C–one to two grams daily in energy drinks such as Emergen-C or tablets–may reduce nausea, as may ginger capsules (one gram every six hours) supplemented with ginger cookies, candied ginger and ginger ale. Ginger is sold in health food stores and in marine stores as Sailor's Secret. Be warned: Ingesting too much ginger may cause heartburn.

Queasy Drops is an extract of ginger, cola, papaya and other flavoring formulated into a candy or lolly pop. There are no reported side effects. Motion Eaze is an herbal extract applied behind both ears. The Reliefband is a wristwatch-like device that delivers electrical stimulation to nerves in the P6 acupuncture site in the wrist. When positioned properly, the wearer feels a pulsed tingling sensation across the palm and in the middle two fingers. SEA Band is an elastic wristband with a plastic stud that applies pressure to the same acupuncture site without electrical stimulation and tingling.

All of these appear to be effective for some boaters–and they might be for you. If you are healthy and use these remedies as intended, there is generally no harm in trying.

SIGNS, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

The earliest signs and symptoms of seasickness are yawning and drowsiness, progressing to dry mouth, headache, dizziness, and extreme listlessness. Some people initially experience an unsettled stomach, slight sweating, mild blushing, and a feeling of warmth. Untreated, the person becomes pale, cold, and clammy. Nausea comes in waves with belching, salivation, and then uncontrollable vomiting.

Recognize these symptoms and begin treatment with prescription anti-nausea medication such as Phenergan when early signs appear. Phenergan taken as a pill, suppository or injection will prevent vomiting and subsequent dehydration. NASA astronauts use Phenergan for treatment of "space sickness." During treatment, lie down and try to sleep. Take in small amounts of fluid, crackers and hard candy.

Sailors now have many options to manage seasickness. It is no longer necessary to follow Samuel Johnson's eighteenth century advice: "To cure seasickness, find a good big oak tree and wrap your arms around it."

Although, that may work, too.