Atropine

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Atropine eye drops; Atropine Sulphate Fresenius, Pharma-Q Atropine

Popular combinations:

Lomotil (with diphenoxylate)

Drug group:

Drug for irritable bowel syndrome, mydriatic drug

Prescription needed?

Yes (most preparations)

What does it do?

Atropine is an anticholinergic drug used in the treatment of:

• Irritable bowel syndrome - relieves abdominal cramps by relaxing the muscle wall of the intestine 
• Heart block – used to restore a normal heart beat
• Uveitis and other inflammatory eye disorders (eye drops)

Atropine eye drops are also used to enlarge the pupil during eye examinations.

Atropine can be injected as a premedication before a general anaesthetic.

How should it be used?

• Use with caution in children and the elderly – side effects more likely
• Atropine delays stomach emptying and may therefore alter the absorption of other drugs

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Eye drops: 1–2 drops, 1-4 x daily according to condition 
• Other forms: as directed

How quickly will it start to work?

[eye drops] 30 minutes
       

How long will the effects last?

[eye drops] 7 days or longer, [other forms] several hours

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor         

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No problems expected

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: anticholinergic effects (blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, stinging (eye drops)
• Less common: difficulty in passing urine
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: palpitations, confusion, pain or irritation with eye drops, rash

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney/heart problems, gastro-oesophageal reflux, glaucoma, urinary difficulties or prostate problems, ulcerative colitis
• Other medicines: other anticholinergic drugs, ketoconazole
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety in pregnancy not established, may affect the breastfed baby
• Children: Combination product not recommended under 4 years (particularly dangerous in overdose in young children), reduced dose necessary in older children
• Over 60: Caution, increased likelihood of adverse effects
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause blurred vision and may impair concentration
• Alcohol: Avoid, increased likelihood of confusion and impaired concentration