Atropine ophthalmic Side Effects

Some side effects of atropine ophthalmic may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to atropine ophthalmic: ophthalmic ointment, ophthalmic solution

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using atropine ophthalmic and seek emergency medical attention:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

• an irregular or fast heart rate;

• hallucinations or unusual behavior (especially in children); or

• a swollen or distended stomach (in infants).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use atropine ophthalmic and talk to your doctor if you experience

• blurred vision,

• sensitivity to sunlight,

• stinging and burning, or

• swelling of the eyelids.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to atropine ophthalmic: ophthalmic ointment, ophthalmic solution

General

Atropine toxicity (anticholinergic side effects) may occur after ocular administration and often presents as fever, agitation, and dry skin/mucous membranes.

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects have included flushing, hypotension, tachycardia, arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, coma, and death after ocular atropine.

Nervous system

If delirium due to atropine develops and there are no contraindications, many experts recommend the use of 2 mg of physostigmine IM or IV once or twice (as needed) as an effective antidote. Repeated doses may be necessary. Diazepam has been useful for the treatment of convulsions secondary to atropine poisoning.

Nervous system side effects have included lethargy and somnolence. Systemic atropine toxicity may result in hallucinosis, loss of neuromuscular coordination, seizures, and agitation. The elderly and very young appear to be more prone to the anticholinergic effects of atropine on the CNS.

Ocular

Ocular side effects have included inhibition of the iris sphincter muscle (resulting in mydriasis), blurry vision, inhibition of the ciliary muscle (which can interfere with near vision in up to 23% of patients), increased intraocular pressure and precipitation of acute narrow angle glaucoma. Prolonged use may result in local irritation (follicular conjunctivitis, vascular congestion, edema, exudate, and eczematoid dermatitis),

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included abdominal distention (in infants), decreased gastrointestinal motility, and salivation.

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity reactions have rarely included systemic reactions, manifested by urticaria, eczema, papillary hyperplasia, mucopurulent discharge, eosinophilia, pruritus, edema, hypotension, abdominal pain, tachypnea, nausea and vomiting. Contact dermatitis has rarely been associated with atropine ophthalmic preparations.

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects associated with severe reactions have included progressive respiratory depression.

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included rash (a possible sign of atropine toxicity).

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