Isopto Atropine, Atropen (global)
Generic Name
Atropine
Manufacturer
Various generic manufacturers globally
Country
Global
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Atropine is an anticholinergic medication used to treat certain types of nerve agent and pesticide poisonings as well as some types of slow heart rate. It is also used to decrease saliva and mucus production during surgery. It is often given intravenously or as eye drops.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Bradycardia: 0.5 mg IV every 3-5 min, max 3 mg. Organophosphate poisoning: 1-2 mg IV/IM, repeat every 5-20 min until atropinization. Ophthalmic: 1-2 drops of 1% solution 1-2 times daily.
Elderly
Caution due to increased susceptibility to side effects; lower doses often required.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment generally required, but monitor for anticholinergic effects due to slower excretion.
How to Take
Administered intravenously, intramuscularly, subcutaneously, or as ophthalmic drops.
Mechanism of Action
Atropine competitively blocks muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, thereby inhibiting the parasympathetic nervous system. This leads to increased heart rate, decreased glandular secretions (saliva, sweat), relaxation of smooth muscles (bronchi, GI tract), and pupil dilation.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
IV: 1 min, IM: 30 min, Ophthalmic: 30-40 min (mydriasis)
Excretion
Primarily excreted in urine as unchanged drug and metabolites.
Half life
2 to 4 hours (adults), longer in children.
Absorption
Well absorbed after oral administration, intramuscular, and intravenous injection. Ophthalmic absorption can lead to systemic effects.
Metabolism
Partially metabolized in the liver by enzymatic hydrolysis.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Angle-closure glaucoma
- •Prostatic hypertrophy with urinary retention
- •Paralytic ileus or toxic megacolon
- •Myasthenia gravis (except in specific circumstances)
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
May increase atropine effects.
Anticholinergics
Additive effects, increased risk of anticholinergic toxicity.
Phenothiazines, TCAs
Enhanced anticholinergic effects.
Potassium chloride (solid oral forms)
Increased risk of GI lesions.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), protect from light. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms include extreme dry mouth, blurred vision, dilated pupils, fever, hallucinations, confusion, and rapid heartbeat. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including physostigmine for severe anticholinergic symptoms.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Atropine is excreted into breast milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months when stored as recommended.
Availability
Available in hospitals and pharmacies
Approval Status
FDA approved, widely available
Patent Status
Off-patent, widely available as generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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