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What is atropine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Atropine belongs to a class of medications known as
anticholinergics or antimuscarinics. Atropine occurs naturally and is extracted
from the
belladonna alkaloid plant. Atropine works by blocking the actions of a
chemical called acetylcholine. Atropine has numerous uses in clinical medicine
and is available in several dosage forms including oral tablet, solution for
injection, ophthalmic solution, and ophthalmic ointment. Oral atropine is no
longer available in the US.
Atropine produces many effects in the body, including reducing stomach or
intestinal spasms, reducing the production of saliva, mucus, and other bodily
secretions, and maintaining proper heart rhythm.
Is atropine available as a generic drug?
Is atropine available as a generic drug?
No longer available
Do I need a prescription for atropine?
No longer available
What are the side effects of atropine?
WARNING
- Atropine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or
blurred vision. Use caution when operating machinery or performing other
hazardous activities. - Alcohol consumption may increase dizziness or
drowsiness while taking atropine. - Atropine should not be used by people with
narrow angle glaucoma.
What is the dosage for atropine?
The recommended dose is 0.4 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
Which drugs or supplements interact with atropine?
Combining atropine with other anticholinergic drugs increases the risk of
side effects. Examples of such drugs include
- diphenhydramine (Benadryl),
- dicyclomine (Bentyl),
- benztropine (Cogentin),
- trihexyphenidyl (Artane), and
- amitriptyline (Endep, Elavil).
Is atropine safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of atropine in
pregnant women.
A small amount of atropine is secreted in human milk.
Atropine should be used cautiously while breastfeeding.
What else should I know about atropine?
What preparations of atropine are available?
Oral tablets: 0.4 mg
How should I keep atropine stored?
Atropine tablets should be stored at room temperature, between 15 C
and 30 C (59 F and 86 F).