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Atropine Eye Solution

Atropine is a liquid medication that comes in the form of eye drops. A healthcare provider will use this medication to dilate your pupils before an eye examination. It can also treat certain eye conditions.

What is this medication?

ATROPINE (A troe peen) enlarges (dilates) your pupils before or after an eye exam or procedure. It may also be used to treat eye inflammation. It works by relaxing the muscles of your eyes. This makes it easier to view the inner eye. It also reduces pain and swelling. It can also be used to treat lazy eye (amblyopia). It works by helping to strengthen the affected eye.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Atropine Care, Atropisol, Isopto Atropine

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Glaucoma
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to atropine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is only for use in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper or tube to your eye, fingertips, or other surfaces. Squeeze the required number of drops into the pouch. Close your eye gently to spread the drops. Do not use your medication more often than directed. Do not stop using except on the advice of your care team.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 3 months for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without talking to your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Side effects may occur even though you are no longer using this medication. Contact your care team if you are still getting side effects after several days.

This medication may cause blurred vision. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

This medication may make you more sensitive to bright light. Keep out of bright light and wear sunglasses if this medication makes your eyes more sensitive to light.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Increase in blood pressure

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Blurry vision
  • Burning or stinging of the eyes after use
  • Dry mouth
  • Dry skin
  • Restlessness
  • Sensitivity to light

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer wanted or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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