atropine (Atreza) Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is atropine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Atropine belongs to a class of medications known as anticholinergics or antimuscarinics. Atropine occurs naturally and is extracted from the belladonna alkaloid plant. Atropine works by blocking the actions of a chemical called acetylcholine. Atropine has numerous uses in clinical medicine and is available in several dosage forms including oral tablet, solution for injection, ophthalmic solution, and ophthalmic ointment. Oral atropine is no longer available in the US.
Atropine produces many effects in the body, including reducing stomach or intestinal spasms, reducing the production of saliva, mucus, and other bodily secretions, and maintaining proper heart rhythm.
Is atropine available as a generic drug?
Is atropine available as a generic drug?No longer available
Do I need a prescription for atropine?
No longer available
What are the side effects of atropine?
WARNING
What is the dosage for atropine?
The recommended dose is 0.4 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
Is atropine safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of atropine in pregnant women.
A small amount of atropine is secreted in human milk. Atropine should be used cautiously while breastfeeding.
What else should I know about atropine?
What preparations of atropine are available?
Oral tablets: 0.4 mg
How should I keep atropine stored?
Atropine tablets should be stored at room temperature, between 15 C and 30 C (59 F and 86 F).
QUESTION
What is irritable bowel syndrome or IBS? See AnswerSummary
Atropine oral (Atreza, Sal-Tropine) is no longer available in the United States. Oral atropine is a drug that belongs to a class of medications referred to as anticholinergics. Atropine is prescribed to treat people with sialorrhea (production of excess saliva), reducing stomach or intestinal spasms, reducing mucus production other secretions of the body, and maintaining proper heart rhythm. Side effects, drug interactions, dosing, storage, and pregnancy and breastfeeding safety information should be reviewed prior to taking any medication.
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Treatment & Diagnosis
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References
Medically reviewed by John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP; Board Certified Emergency Medicine
REFERENCE:
FDA Prescribing Information