Atropine
Information about Atropine
Atropine uses
Atropine is used in the treatment of bradycardia.
How atropine works
Atropine is an anticholinergic medication. It works by blocking the activity of a chemical messenger (acetylcholine) in the brain.
Common side effects of atropine
Dryness in mouth, Increased heart rate, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Difficulty in urination, Constipation, Blurred vision
Content Details
Last updated on:
19 Aug 2019 | 05:24 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Atropine
- It is given into the veins or muscles under the supervision of a doctor.
- It may cause blurred vision. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how this medicine affects you.
- Avoid taking Atropine if you have urinary retention, high blood pressure, any heart problems or high thyroid hormone level.
- Inform your doctor if you notice a skin rash, swelling of the face, or tongue and trouble breathing.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Atropine
Atropine
Q. Is atropine a controlled substance?
No, it is available as prescription drug
Q. Is atropine a beta blocker /calcium channelblocker/adrenaline/ parasympathomimetic/vasopressor?
No, atropine belongs to class of medication called as anticholinergics or cholinergic antagonist
Q. Is atropine an agonist or antagonist?
Atropine is an antagonist of cholinergic receptors
Q. Is atropine a narcotic drug?
No, it is not a narcotic. However, it is often available in combination with drugs that have abuse potential
Q. Does atropine increase blood pressure/decrease heart rate/sedation/urinary retention/increase contractility?
Atropine decreases heart rate and increases blood pressure; It causes urinary retention as well as decreased contractility of gut and urinary bladder muscles. It does not cause sedation, on the contrary, it causes excitation, sleeplessness and agitation
Q. Does atropine cross placenta?
Yes, small amount of atropine can cause placenta. Always follow your doctor’s advice regarding its use
Q. Does atropine block activity of acetylcholine /nicotinic receptor?
Yes, atropine acts by inhibiting the activity of acetylcholine on muscarinic and nicotinic receptors.