Ophthalmic solution, ointment
Used for eye examinations, before and after eye surgery, and to treat certain types of eye conditions, including uveitis (inflammation of the uvea, or the central portion of the eye) and posterior synechiae (a potentially blinding eye disorder). May also be used to help determine the proper prescription for eyeglasses in young children.
Atropine sulfate relaxes the ciliary muscle, which controls the shape of the eye's lens as it focuses, and another eye muscle called the sphincter, which controls the narrowing and widening of the pupil. Relaxation of these muscles prevents the lens from focusing and widens the pupil. This allows the doctor to view the interior structures of the eye during an ophthalmologic procedure. And, by immobilizing the tiny structures within the eye, the drug prevents scarring of eye tissue and may also alleviate pain somewhat.
For eye examination-- Adults: Dose to be determined by your doctor. Children: Ophthalmic solution: 1 drop in the eye twice a day for 2 days before the examination. Ointment: A thin strip of ointment applied to the eye 3 times a day for up to 3 days before the examination. For uveitis-- Adults: 1 drop in the eye or a thin strip of ointment applied to the eye 1 to 4 times a day. Children: 1 drop in the eye or a thin strip of ointment applied to the eye up to 3 times a day.
Unknown.
From six to 12 days. The drug's effect on the lens's ability to focus may last longer than its effect on the size of the pupil.
No special restrictions.
Store in a tightly sealed container away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
If you miss a dose, apply the missed dose as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the next dose.
The decision to stop using the drug should be made by your doctor.
Call your doctor if symptoms persist for more than 14 days.
Sleepiness and agitation are more likely.
Avoid such activities until temporary blurring of vision goes away.
No special precautions are necessary.
Adequate human studies have not been done. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning a pregnancy.
Small amounts of this drug may pass into breast milk; extreme caution is advised. Infants exposed to atropine may exhibit a rapid pulse, fever, or dry skin.
Infants, young children, and children with blond hair or blue eyes may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug and may have an increased risk of side effects. Use with extreme caution in these groups.
Before administering the drug, wash your hands. Tilt your head back. Gently apply pressure to the inside corner of the eyelid and pull downward on the lower eyelid to make a space. Drop the medicine or put about 1/3 inch of ointment into this space and close your eye. Apply pressure for one or two minutes while the eye is closed. Wash your hands again. Make sure the tip of the applicator does not touch any other surface.
Impaired vision, extreme sensitivity to light, confusion, clumsiness, dizziness, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, extreme drowsiness or weakness, unusual dry skin or mouth.
Call your doctor, emergency medical services (EMS), or the nearest poison control center immediately.
Consult your doctor if you use tranquilizers, drugs for glaucoma or myasthenia gravis, or any other eye drops or medications.
None expected.
Do not use if you have glaucoma, especially closed-angle glaucoma, without consulting your doctor. The drug may increase abdominal pain in gastrointestinal disorders.