From the Guidelines
Atropine eye drops should be administered at a concentration of 0.01% to 0.05% once daily, preferably at bedtime, for myopia control in children, as this dosage has been shown to slow the progression of myopia with minimal side effects 1. The dosage and administration protocol for atropine eye drops can vary depending on the specific condition being treated.
- For myopia control in children, the most effective concentration is 0.01% to 0.05%, with 0.05% being the optimal concentration among the studied atropine concentrations in slowing myopia progression 1.
- The drops should be applied once daily, preferably at bedtime, to minimize potential side effects such as light sensitivity and blurred vision.
- To properly administer the drops, tilt the head back, pull down the lower eyelid to create a pocket, place one drop in the eye without touching the dropper to the eye, close the eyes gently for 1-2 minutes, and apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of the eye to prevent systemic absorption.
- Atropine works by blocking acetylcholine receptors in the eye, which paralyzes the ciliary muscle and dilates the pupil.
- Potential side effects include light sensitivity, blurred vision, and dry mouth, so sunglasses may be needed outdoors.
- The medication should be stored according to package instructions and kept away from children.
- It is essential to note that the use of atropine eye drops should be discontinued if any adverse effects occur, and the patient should be monitored for any potential risks of long-term atropine use, such as light toxicity to ocular structures, local allergic and systemic reactions, and reduced accommodative amplitudes following discontinuation of atropine 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION In individuals from three (3) months of age or greater 1 drop topically to the cul-de-sac of the conjunctiva, forty minutes prior to the intended maximal dilation time (2.1) In individuals 3 years of age or greater, doses may be repeated up to twice daily as needed. (2. 2)
The dosage and administration protocol for atropine eye drops is as follows:
- Initial dose: 1 drop topically to the cul-de-sac of the conjunctiva, 40 minutes prior to the intended maximal dilation time.
- Repeat doses: In individuals 3 years of age or greater, doses may be repeated up to twice daily as needed. 2
From the Research
Dosage and Administration Protocol for Atropine Eye Drops
The dosage and administration protocol for atropine eye drops can vary depending on the specific use case.
- For myopia control, a common dosage is 0.01% atropine eyedrops, administered once daily in both eyes 3.
- The effects of atropine on pupil size and accommodation can last for at least 24 hours, with significant dilation and reduction in accommodation amplitude observed after instillation of 0.01% atropine eye drops 4.
- The duration of the effect of single-dose atropine can last for approximately 48 hours, with a significant penalization effect present only for one day or so 5.
Administration Guidelines
- Atropine eye drops should be administered in the evening, as the effects can last for at least 24 hours 4.
- The eye drops should be instilled in the affected eye(s), with the dosage and administration frequency determined by a healthcare professional.
- It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and administration protocol to minimize potential side effects and ensure optimal efficacy.
Potential Side Effects
- Atropine eye drops can cause pupil dilation, blurred vision, and loss of accommodation 3.
- Higher doses of atropine can result in more significant side effects, such as increased pupil dilation and loss of accommodation 3.
- The use of atropine eye drops should be monitored by a healthcare professional to minimize potential side effects and ensure safe use.