Atropen, Isopto Atropine, Atreza (hypothetical)
Generic Name
atropine
Manufacturer
Multiple manufacturers globally
Country
Global
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Atropine is an anticholinergic drug used to treat certain types of nerve agent and pesticide poisonings, as well as some types of slow heart rate (bradycardia), and to decrease saliva production during surgery. It is also used in ophthalmology to dilate pupils and paralyze accommodation.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Bradycardia: 0.5-1 mg IV every 3-5 minutes, max 3 mg. Organophosphate poisoning: 1-2 mg IV/IM, repeated every 5-20 minutes until atropinization. Ophthalmic: 1-2 drops of 1% solution 1-4 times daily.
Elderly
Lower doses may be required due to increased sensitivity and potential for CNS side effects. Monitor closely.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustments may be necessary, especially for chronic use, due to renal excretion.
How to Take
Intravenous (IV), Intramuscular (IM), Subcutaneous (SC) for systemic effects; topically as ophthalmic drops for ocular effects; orally as tablets.
Mechanism of Action
Atropine acts as a competitive antagonist of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. It blocks the action of acetylcholine at parasympathetic neuroeffector sites, leading to decreased parasympathetic activity.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
IV: within 1 minute; IM: 5-10 minutes; Ophthalmic: Mydriasis within 30-40 minutes, cycloplegia within 1-3 hours.
Excretion
Mainly renal, with about 50% of the dose excreted unchanged in urine. The remainder is excreted as metabolites.
Half life
2 to 5 hours in adults, may be longer in children and elderly.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, parenterally (IM/SC/IV), and systemically from the ocular surface. Peak plasma concentrations usually within 30 minutes after IM administration.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic, through hydrolysis and conjugation. Approximately 50% of the dose is metabolized.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Angle-closure glaucoma (or predisposition)
- •Prostatic hypertrophy with urinary retention
- •Paralytic ileus
- •Severe ulcerative colitis
- •Tachycardia (unless bradycardia is the underlying cause)
- •Myasthenia gravis (relative contraindication for systemic use)
Drug Interactions
Phenothiazines
Additive anticholinergic effects.
Other anticholinergics
Increased risk of anticholinergic side effects.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
Potentiated anticholinergic effects.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
Increased risk of anticholinergic side effects.
Antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine)
Increased anticholinergic effects.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C), protect from light. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms include dry mouth, blurred vision, pupil dilation, fever, hot flushed skin, tachycardia, hypertension, delirium, hallucinations, seizures, and coma. Treatment is primarily supportive, with physostigmine as a specific antidote to reverse anticholinergic effects.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Atropine is excreted in breast milk and may decrease milk production; use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years, varies by specific formulation and manufacturer. Check product labeling.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
FDA Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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