Atropine Ophthalmic Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 9, 2025.

Applies to atropine ophthalmic: ophthalmic ointment, ophthalmic solution.

Precautions

Your eye doctor will check your or your child's eyes at regular visits to make sure it is working properly and is not causing unwanted effects.

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.

Do not use other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Serious side effects of atropine ophthalmic

Along with its needed effects, atropine ophthalmic may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking atropine ophthalmic:

Other side effects of atropine ophthalmic

Some side effects of atropine ophthalmic may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

See also:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to atropine ophthalmic: ophthalmic ointment, ophthalmic solution.

General adverse events

The most commonly occurring side effects include blurred vision, photophobia, eye pain and stinging, decreased lacrimation. Systemic effects are more common in infants and elderly.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Frequency not reported: Transient bradycardia followed by tachycardia, palpitations, and arrhythmia^[Ref]

Severe reaction to the ointment may include hypotension.^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Frequency not reported: Ataxia, restlessness, excitement, irritability, hyperactivity, somnolence, confusion, delirium, hallucinations^[Ref]

Ocular

• Common (1% to 10%): Eye pain, stinging, blurred vision, photophobia, decreased lacrimation
• Frequency not reported: Superficial keratitis (with prolonged use), conjunctivitis, hyperemia, edema^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Frequency not reported: Dry mouth, thirst, dysphagia, nausea, vomiting, constipation^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Frequency not reported: Contact dermatitis, allergic conjunctivitis, eyelid edema^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Frequency not reported: Decreased bronchial secretions with dry throat and difficulty talking^[Ref]

Severe reaction to the ointment may include hypotension with progressive respiratory depression. Coma and death have been reported in very young children.^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Frequency not reported: Dry skin, flushing, rash^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Frequency not reported: Urinary retention, urinary urgency

Local

• Frequency not reported: Local irritation (with prolonged use)

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Confusion, delirium, hallucinations

Further information

Atropine ophthalmic side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer