
Precautions
What is atropine? Atropine is used to help reduce saliva, mucus, or other secretions in your airway during a surgery. Atropine is sometimes used as an antidote to treat certain types of poisoning. Atropine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is atropine and what is it used for?
The use of atropine in cardiovascular disorders is mainly in the management of patients with bradycardia. Atropine increases the heart rate and improves the atrioventricular conduction by blocking the parasympathetic influences on the heart.
What does atropine do to the heart?
Atropine IV/IM is a prescription medication used to treat the symptoms of Anesthesia Premedication, Sinus Bradycardia (ACLS), Bronchospasm, Organophosphate or Carbamate (Cholinesterase Inhibitors) Poisoning. Learn about side effects, drug interactions, dosages, warnings, and more.
What is the IV drug atropine used for?
atropine, poisonous crystalline substance belonging to a class of compounds known as alkaloids and used in medicine. Atropine occurs naturally in belladonna ( Atropa belladonna ), from which the crystalline compound was first prepared in 1831. Since then, a number of synthetic and semisynthetic substitutes have been developed for atropine, owing to its general nonselectivity in action and adverse effects.
Is atropine is a synthetic drug?
See more

What class of drug does atropine belong?
Atropine belongs to a class of drugs called Anticholinergic, Antispasmodic Agents.
What is the drug atropine used for?
Ophthalmic atropine is used before eye examinations to dilate (open) the pupil, the black part of the eye through which you see. It is also used to relieve pain caused by swelling and inflammation of the eye.
What is atropine used for in an emergency?
It is used in emergency situations when the heart beats too slowly, as an antidote to for example organophosphate insecticide or nerve gas poisoning and in mushroom poisoning. It can be used as part of the premedication before general anaesthesia.
What kind of receptor blocker is atropine?
Atropine, which is on the WHO List of Essential Medicines, is a non-selective muscarinic receptor inhibitor used to treat acute sinus node dysfunction associated with bradycardia, complete atrioventricular block, and organophosphate and beta-blocker poisoning.
Why do doctors prescribe atropine?
Atropine sulfate eye drops is used to dilate the pupil before eye exams. It is also used to treat an eye condition called amblyopia (lazy eyes) and other eye conditions (eg, cycloplegia).
When would atropine be given?
Atropine is the first-line therapy (Class IIa) for symptomatic bradycardia in the absence of reversible causes. Treatments for bradydysrhythmias are indicated when there is a structural disease of the infra-nodal system or if the heart rate is less than 50 beats/min with unstable vital signs.
Which is the most severe side effect of atropine?
Excess doses of atropine sulfate may cause side effects such as palpitations, dilated pupils, difficulty swallowing, hot dry skin, thirst, dizziness, restlessness, tremor, fatigue, and problems with coordination.
What does atropine do to the brain?
Atropine crosses the blood-brain barrier and counters the effects of excess ACh on the extrapyramidal system. Thus, atropinization is the most important mode of treatment during acute cholinergic crisis and can be achieved with the judicious use of atropine.
When should atropine not be given?
Atropine should be avoided with bradycardia caused by hypothermia and, in most cases, it will not be effective for Mobitz type II/Second-degree block type 2 or complete heart block.
Is atropine a beta blocker?
The first-line symptomatic treatment is administration of atropine and volume-expanding fluids to treat bradycardia and hypotension, respectively. However atropine is often unsuccessful in reversing beta-blocker-induced bradycardia and repeated doses can provoke atropine poisoning.
Is atropine a nerve blocker?
For the good order, atropine and pilocarpine are, respectively, an antagonist and agonist of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor: atropine causes drying of the mouth by blocking the parasympathetic-mediated secretion (cholinergic nerves) and it increases heart rate by blocking the inhibitory influence of the vagus ...
What is another name for atropine?
AtropineClinical dataTrade namesAtropen, othersOther namesDaturinAHFS/Drugs.comMonographMedlinePlusa68248736 more rows
Which is the most severe side effect of atropine?
Excess doses of atropine sulfate may cause side effects such as palpitations, dilated pupils, difficulty swallowing, hot dry skin, thirst, dizziness, restlessness, tremor, fatigue, and problems with coordination.
What does atropine do to the brain?
Atropine crosses the blood-brain barrier and counters the effects of excess ACh on the extrapyramidal system. Thus, atropinization is the most important mode of treatment during acute cholinergic crisis and can be achieved with the judicious use of atropine.
When should atropine not be given?
Atropine should be avoided with bradycardia caused by hypothermia and, in most cases, it will not be effective for Mobitz type II/Second-degree block type 2 or complete heart block.
What is the function of atropine?
In general, atropine counters the "rest and digest" activity of glands regulated by the parasympathetic nervous system. This occurs because atropine is a competitive, reversible antagonist of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptors ( acetylcholine being the main neurotransmitter used by the parasympathetic nervous system).
Where does atropine come from?
Atropine occurs naturally in a number of plants of the nightshade family, including deadly nightshade (belladonna), Jimson weed, and mandrake. It was first isolated in 1833, and is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. It is available as a generic medication.
How does atropine affect bradycardia?
One proposed mechanism for atropine's paradoxical bradycardia effect at low doses involves blockade of inhibitory presynaptic muscarinic autoreceptors, thereby blocking a system that inhibits the parasympathetic response. Atropine is incapacitating at doses of 10 to 20 mg per person.
What are the symptoms of atropine overdose?
These associations reflect the specific changes of warm, dry skin from decreased sweating, blurry vision, decreased lacrimation, vasodilation, and central nervous system effects on muscarinic receptors, type 4 and 5. This set of symptoms is known as anticholinergic toxidrome, and may also be caused by other drugs with anticholinergic effects, such as hyoscine hydrobromide (scopolamine), diphenhydramine, phenothiazine antipsychotics and benztropine.
Why is atropine used in intubation?
Atropine has also been used in an effort to prevent a low heart rate during intubation of children ; however, evidence does not support this use.
How long does atropine last?
Eye drops are also available which are used to treat uveitis and early amblyopia. The intravenous solution usually begins working within a minute and lasts half an hour to an hour. Large doses may be required to treat some poisonings.
Why is atropine removed from the resuscitation guidelines?
Atropine was previously included in international resuscitation guidelines for use in cardiac arrest associated with asystole and PEA, but was removed from these guidelines in 2010 due to a lack of evidence for its effectiveness.
What is the FDA indication for atropine?
Atropine - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. Atropine or atropine sulfate carries FDA indications for anti-sialagogue/anti-vagal effect, organophosphate/muscarinic poisoning, and bradycardia. Atropine acts as a competitive, reversible antagonist of muscarinic receptors: an anticholinergic drug. This activity outlines the indications, mechanism ...
How to administer atropine?
Administration. Atropine can be administered by intravenous (IV), subcutaneous, intramuscular, or endotracheal (ET) method ; IV is preferred. For ET administration, dilute 1 mg to 2 mg in 10 mL of sterile water or normal saline before administration. For pediatric ET, double the usual IV dose and dilute in 3 to 5 mL.
What is the effect of atropine on smooth muscle?
Atropine is an antimuscarinic that works through competitive inhibition of postganglionic acetylcholine receptors and direct vagolytic action, which leads to parasympathetic inhibition of the acetylcholine receptors in smooth muscle . The end effect of increased parasympathetic inhibition allows for preexisting sympathetic stimulation to predominate, creating increased cardiac output and other associated antimuscarinic side effects as described herein. [4]
What is IV atropine?
Intravenous (IV) atropine indications include patients with hypersalivation, bronchial secretions, or bradycardia. Large doses and repeat doses may be required. Ingestions especially require higher doses (up to 20 mg). Titrate to effect by monitoring the patient’s ability to clear excess secretions.
What is the FDA approved drug for anti-sialagogue?
Atropine or atropine sulfate carries FDA indications for anti-sialagogue/anti-vagal effect, organophosphate/muscarinic poisoning, and bradycardia. [1][2] It was originally synthesized from the plant Atropa belladonnawhich is where the drug derives its name.
What is titrate used for?
Titrate to effect by monitoring the patient’s ability to clear excess secretions. Pupils and heart rate are poor indications of appropriate dosing in these patients. Bradycardia. Atropine is the first-line therapy (Class IIa) for symptomatic bradycardia in the absence of reversible causes.
When to use atropine before RSI?
Although not recommended as a routine agent, atropine may be used 3 to 5 minutes before initiation of RSI to prevent bradycardia. In the setting of post-intubation-related bradycardia, atropine is indicated. Post induction bradycardia is seen more commonly in the pediatric population due to the predominance of vagal response, even without the use of succinylcholine.
Product (s) containing atropine
Brand names: AtroPen, Sal-Tropine, Atreza Drug class (es): anticholinergic chronotropic agents, anticholinergics/antispasmodics, antidotes Atropine systemic is used in the treatment of:
Multi-ingredient medications containing atropine
Brand names: Atrohist Plus, Deconhist LA, Rolatuss-SR, Protuss Tablet Drug class (es): upper respiratory combinations Atropine/chlorpheniramine/hyoscyamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine/scopolamine systemic is used in the treatment of:
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
What is atropine?
Atropine is used to help reduce saliva, mucus, or other secretions in your airway during a surgery.
How is atropine given?
Atropine is injected into a muscle, under the skin, or as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider may give you this injection or teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.
What other drugs will affect atropine?
Atropine can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth. Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially pralidoxime.
What happens if I overdose?
You will be watched closely to make sure you do not receive too much of atropine. Your caregivers will quickly treat you if you have overdose symptoms.
What to do after atropine injection?
Seek medical attention after any use of atropine to treat poisoning. After the injection you may need to receive further treatment and observation.
What is the condition that causes a blockage in the digestive tract?
a heart rhythm disorder; liver or kidney disease; myasthenia gravis; or. a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines). In an emergency, you may not be able to tell caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you received atropine.
What are the signs of an allergic reaction?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Tell your caregivers right away if you have: a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest; nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, ...
What is Atropine-1?
Atropine causes the muscles in your eye to become relaxed. This widens (dilates) your pupil so that it will not respond to light.
How should I use Atropine-1?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use Atropine-1 in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
What other drugs will affect Atropine-1?
Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if you have used too much Atropine-1, or if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.
How to apply eye drops?
To apply the eye drops: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop. Close your eyes for 2 or 3 minutes with your head tipped down, without blinking or squinting.
How long does atropine 1 last?
Atropine-1 will cause blurred vision that could last up to 2 weeks. This may impair your reactions while driving or doing anything that requires you to be able to see clearly. Common side effects may include: mild stinging or pain when the drops are placed into your eye; mild eye pain;
Why is atropine 1 used in the weaker eye?
This helps strengthen the weaker eye because the brain will force that eye to work harder to focus.
What is atropine and diphenoxylate?
Atropine affects the body in many different ways, such as reducing spasms in the bladder, stomach, and intestines.
How to avoid atropine?
Your reactions could be impaired. Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise, in hot weather, or by not drinking enough fluids.
How long does it take for atropine to cause side effects?
Some side effects may occur up to 30 hours after you take this medicine.
Can you overdose on atropine?
Keep atropine and diphenoxylate where a child cannot reach it. An overdose of atropine and diphenoxylate can be fatal to a child.

Overview
This medication is used before eye examinations (such as refraction) and to treat certain eye conditions (such as uveitis).
May Treat: Cholinesterase inhibitors toxicity · Cycloplegia · Irritable bowel syndrome · Muscarine toxicity · Mydriasis and more
Brand Names: Isopto Atropine · AtroPen · Atropine Care · Atropisol · Atreza and more
Drug Class: GI Antispasmodic - Belladonna Alkaloids · Muscarinic Receptor Antagonists (Anticholinergic) · Ophthalmic - Anticholinergics
Availability: Prescription sometimes needed
Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before using
May Treat: Cholinesterase inhibitors toxicity · Cycloplegia · Irritable bowel syndrome · Muscarine toxicity · Mydriasis and more
Brand Names: Isopto Atropine · AtroPen · Atropine Care · Atropisol · Atreza and more
Drug Class: GI Antispasmodic - Belladonna Alkaloids · Muscarinic Receptor Antagonists (Anticholinergic) · Ophthalmic - Anticholinergics
Availability: Prescription sometimes needed
Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before using
Lactation: Consult a doctor before using
Driving: May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution
Medical uses
Side effects
Atropine is a tropane alkaloid and anticholinergic medication used to treat certain types of nerve agent and pesticide poisonings as well as some types of slow heart rate, and to decrease saliva production during surgery. It is typically given intravenously or by injection into a muscle. Eye drops are also available which are used to treat uveitis and early amblyopia. The intravenous solution usually begin…
Contraindications
Topical atropine is used as a cycloplegic, to temporarily paralyze the accommodation reflex, and as a mydriatic, to dilate the pupils. Atropine degrades slowly, typically wearing off in 7 to 14 days, so it is generally used as a therapeutic mydriatic, whereas tropicamide (a shorter-acting cholinergic antagonist) or phenylephrine (an α-adrenergic agonist) is preferred as an aid to
Chemistry
Adverse reactions to atropine include ventricular fibrillation, supraventricular or ventricular tachycardia, dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, loss of balance, dilated pupils, photophobia, dry mouth and potentially extreme confusion, deliriant hallucinations, and excitation especially among the elderly. These latter effects are because atropine is able to cross the blood–brain barrier. Because of the hallucinogenic properties, some have used the drug recreationally, though this is …
Pharmacology
It is generally contraindicated in people with glaucoma, pyloric stenosis, or prostatic hypertrophy, except in doses ordinarily used for preanesthesia.
History
Atropine, a tropane alkaloid, is an enantiomeric mixture of d-hyoscyamine and l-hyoscyamine, with most of its physiological effects due to l-hyoscyamine. Its pharmacological effects are due to binding to muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. It is an antimuscarinic agent. Significant levels are achieved in the CNS within 30 minutes to 1 hour and disappears rapidly from the blood with a half-life of 2 hours. About 60% is excreted unchanged in the urine, most of the rest appears in urine …
Natural sources
In general, atropine counters the "rest and digest" activity of glands regulated by the parasympathetic nervous system. This occurs because atropine is a competitive, reversible antagonist of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (acetylcholine being the main neurotransmitter used by the parasympathetic nervous system).
Atropine is a competitive antagonist of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor types M1, M2, M3, M4 a…