Drug Notes

Atropine (Into the eye)

Atropine (AT-roe-peen)

Used before eye exams to dilate the pupil. Also treats eye infections and other eye conditions.

Brand Name(s):

Atropine Sulfate

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Ointment, Liquid, Drop

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed. This medicine is not for long-term use.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
• Shake the eye drops well just before each use.
• To use the eye drops: Hold the dropper close to your eye with the other hand. Drop the correct number of drops into the pocket made between your lower lid and eyeball. Gently close your eyes. Place your index finger over the inner corner of your eye for 1 minute. Do not rinse or wipe the dropper or allow it to touch anything, including your eye. Put the cap on the bottle right away. Keep the bottle upright when you are not using it.
• To use the ointment: Hold the tip of the tube close to your eye with the other hand. Avoid touching the tip of the tube to your eye or finger. Squeeze a ribbon of ointment into the pocket between your lower lid and eyeball. Close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Wipe the tip with a clean tissue and close the tube tightly. Keep the tube tightly closed when you are not using it.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. You may also store this medicine at the refrigerator.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how atropine works. Tell your doctor if you are using an MAO inhibitor (MAOI).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have brain damage, down syndrome, high blood pressure, or nerve problems.
• This medicine may cause drowsiness, blurred vision, or make your eyes sensitive to light. Wear sunglasses while you are using this medicine. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not drive until your pupils are no longer dilated.
• You should not give this medicine to a child unless under your doctor tells you to.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blurred vision, change in color vision, trouble seeing at night
• Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Drowsiness
• Eye irritation, burning, or sensitivity to light
• Eyelid swelling, redness, or itching

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017