atropine sulphate

An antimuscarinic drug; atropine is one of the components of belladonna. Atropine sulphate is applied to the eye to dilate the pupil before examination of the interior of the eye, especially in young children. Since its action is long-lasting and it paralyses the ciliary muscles (which control the focusing ability of the eye) as well as the muscle of the iris (which controls the size of the pupil), it is also used for treating inflammation of the ciliary muscles and iris. Atropine is taken by mouth for the relief of gut spasms (see antispasmodics). Injections of atropine are occasionally used during surgery for drying up secretions in the airways and for preventing or reversing the effects of neostigmine in slowing the heart rate; atropine injections are also given to patients who have a slow heart rate associated with arrhythmias after a heart attack and to treat cardiac arrest. Atropine is available as eye drops or ointment, tablets, or an injection on prescription only; compound antispasmodic preparations containing atropine are available from pharmacies without a prescription.

Side effects:
for systemic effects, see antimuscarinic drugs. Eye drops or ointment can cause transient stinging and an increase in pressure in the eye; with prolonged use, local irritation and conjunctivitis can occur.

Precautions:
see antimuscarinic drugs. Eye ointment (rather than drops) should be used in children under three months, since they are more likely to develop systemic effects with eye drops.

Interactions with other drugs:
see antimuscarinic drugs.

Proprietary preparations:
Minims Atropine Sulphate (single-dose eye drops); Minijet Atropine (injection); Actonorm Powder (combined with antacids and peppermint oil).

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