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Home > Drug Category > Elevated Intra-Ocular Pressure > Isopto Atropine and Equivalent

Isopto Atropine Information

Isopto Atropine (Atropine Sulfate) is a potent ophthalmic medication that temporarily blocks certain functions in the eye during eye procedures or to treat certain eye conditions. Firstly, it may be used by your doctor to dilate your pupil and get a wide, clear view of the retina and the back of the eye during an eye examination. It may also be used to relax the ciliary muscles to ensure an accurate result during a vision test for refractive error. This is particularly useful for getting a precise prescription in children. It is also used to treat amblyopia, also called lazy eye, in which reduced vision in one eye is caused by a problem with visual development during early childhood. Furthermore, this medication may help reduce eye pain and prevent scarring and adhesion by maintaining ocular muscle stability in inflammatory eye conditions, such as uveitis or iridocyclitis.

The active ingredient in this topical medication is atropine sulfate, a member of the anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) class of drugs. It works by competitively blocking acetylcholine receptors in the eye's smooth muscles. This action paralyzes the iris sphincter muscle to widen the pupil and the ciliary muscle to stop the eye from focusing. In inflammatory conditions such as uveitis, this temporary paralysis of the eye muscles provides significant pain relief and prevents the iris from adhering to the lens. In amblyopia, the drops are applied to the stronger eye to temporarily blur its vision, thereby forcing the brain to prioritize and strengthen the neural pathways of the weaker eye. Since it's highly effective, its potency means a single drop can leave the pupil dilated for over a week, making your eye intensely sensitive to light during recovery.

Isopto Atropine Side Effects

Like all medicines, Isopto Atropine can cause side effects; however, not everybody experiences them. Common side effects of this medication include mild vision changes, such as blurred vision, increased light sensitivity, pupil dilation, stinging after application, dry eyes, or dizziness. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen.

Stop using this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Cardiovascular issues such as a noticeably fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia) or high blood pressure;
• Neurological changes such as confusion, disorientation, restlessness, or irritability, and in some severe cases (especially in children or the elderly), hallucinations or slurred speech;
• Physical distress such as high fever, flushed/red skin, or an inability to urinate;
• Worsening symptoms of glaucoma, such as eye pain, headaches, and seeing halos around lights

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Isopto Atropine Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to atropine or any other ingredients in this topical medication. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Angle-closure glaucoma;
• Down syndrome, or spastic paralysis;
• Heart disease;
• High blood pressure

This medication should be used with caution, particularly in individuals with fever or exposed to high temperatures, as atropine can increase body temperature by reducing sweating. Given this medication's ocular effects, it is advisable to maintain regular visits with your physician to monitor intraocular pressure, particularly if you are an older adult. Consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding to determine if its benefits outweigh the risks. This medication should be used with caution in children and older adults, as they may be more sensitive to its side effects. Certain preservatives in these eye drops (benzalkonium chloride) can ruin soft contact lenses. You'll need to take them out before the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in.

Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you, as it can cause blurry vision and dizziness. You can use protective sunglasses when outdoors, as this medication can make your eyes more sensitive to sunlight. Using atropine alongside some other drugs, such as antihistamines, older antidepressants, or antipsychotics, can worsen side effects like extreme dry mouth, confusion, and a fast heartbeat. Therefore, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including other topical eye medications and over-the-counter medications, that you are taking before using Isopto Atropine to determine potential drug interactions.

Apply Isopto Atropine into your eyes as directed by your doctor. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage regimen for you depending on your condition. Check out the leaflet in the medicine pack for instructions on how to apply this medication. If you use other eye drops, wait at least five to ten minutes before applying the following medicines. Store this medication at room temperature and keep it away from children and pets.

Do I need a prescription to order Isopto Atropine?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Isopto Atropine.