What is atropine?

Atropine is used to help reduce saliva, mucus, or other secretions in your airway during a surgery. Atropine is also used to treat spasms in the stomach, intestines, bladder, or other organs.

Atropine is sometimes used as an antidote to treat certain types of poisoning.

Atropine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Before you receive atropine, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions or allergies, and all the medicines you are using. Also make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Before taking this medicine

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• asthma or other breathing disorder;

• glaucoma;

• enlarged prostate;

• urination problems,

• a heart rhythm disorder;

• liver or kidney disease;

• myasthenia gravis; or

• a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines).

In an emergency, you may not be able to tell caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you received atropine.

What should I avoid while receiving atropine?

This medicine may cause blurred vision and may impair your reactions. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Atropine can decrease sweating and you may be more prone to heat stroke.

Atropine side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregivers right away if you have:

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest;

• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, feeling full after eating a small amount;

• blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights;

• trouble swallowing;

• feeling restless or excited;

• tremors, problems with balance or muscle movement;

• increased thirst, hot and dry skin;

• tiredness; or

• a severe skin rash.

Common side effects may include:

• dry mouth, nose, or throat;

• dry eyes, blurred vision;

• dizziness; or

• headache, drowsiness.

What other drugs will affect atropine?

Atropine can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth. Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially mexiletine.

Other drugs may affect atropine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.