Atropine

Dosage Forms Available

• Atropine can be taken intravenously or intramuscularly (injection) and applied topically (eye drops).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Atropine is typically used in adults and children under medical supervision.

Contraindications

• Atropine is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Atropine or other anticholinergics. It should not be used in patients with severe ulcerative colitis, obstructive gastrointestinal diseases, or cardiovascular diseases. Patients with angle-closure glaucoma and those with myasthenia gravis should also avoid this medicine.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Atropine may interact with other anticholinergic medicines (such as scopolamine, and tiotropium), cholinesterase inhibitor medicines (such as donepezil and rivastigmine), antidepressants like MAO inhibitors (for example, isocarboxazid and phenelzine), antipsychotics (like haloperidol, olanzapine), and antihistamines (like diphenhydramine, cetirizine).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Atropine overdose can lead to fever, dilated pupils, dry mucous membranes, tachycardia, urinary retention, and even coma. In such cases, immediately consult your doctor.

• If you have missed a dose of Atropine, take it as soon as you remember.

• However, avoid taking a double dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• If you experience dry mouth or throat, try sipping water frequently throughout the day.

• If constipation occurs, try to include more fibre in your diet and drink plenty of fluids.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Atropine can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery as it may cause dizziness or blurred vision. It is advisable to avoid such activities until you know how this medicine affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Atropine is categorised under pregnancy category C. It should be used in pregnancy only when needed. Atropine is known to pass into breast milk, nursing mothers should discuss it with their doctors before using this medication.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with autonomic neuropathy, hepatic or renal diseases, hyperthyroidism or prostatic hypertrophy should exercise caution when using Atropine. Additionally, caution is advised when using Atropine in elderly patients and children due to their increased sensitivity to its effects.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• If using Atropine for bradycardia (slow heart rate), maintain a heart-healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and low-fat dairy. Limit the intake of sodium, saturated fats and cholesterol.

• If using Atropine to reduce secretions before anaesthesia, follow your doctor's instructions regarding fasting before surgery.

• If using Atropine as an antidote for poisonings, follow a balanced diet to support recovery, and avoid exposure to harmful chemicals or substances.