Description: 

Atropine Sulfate Ophthalmic

How Is This Medication Useful?
Atropine sulfate is used in the eye to dilate the pupil. This effect is useful in reducing pain after cataract surgery or eye injury and is also useful in treating glaucoma.

Are There Conditions or Times When Its Use Might Cause More Harm Than Good?
Condition may worsen with atropine use in dogs with primary glaucoma. Using atropine in the eye more frequently than prescribed
can result in serious problems such as colic in horses and a dangerous increase in body temperature in other animals. Atropine toxicity may also cause some changes in heart rate and rhythm and may cause your pet to be unable to urinate. If your animal has any of the above conditions, talk to your veterinarian about the potential risks of using the medication versus the benefits that it might have.

What Side Effects Can Be Seen With Its Use?
Because atropine dilates the pupil, animals will be very sensitive to sunlight and should be kept out of bright light while receiving this drug. Most animals will salivate when atropine drops get into their mouth. Too much atropine can result in dry mouth, constipation and vomiting.

How Should It Be Given?
The successful outcome of your animal’s treatment with this medication depends upon your commitment and ability to administer it exactly as the veterinarian has prescribed. Please do not skip doses or stop giving the medication. If you have difficulty giving doses consult your veterinarian or pharmacist who can offer administration techniques or change the dosage form to a type of medication that may be more acceptable to you and your animal.  If you miss a dose of this medication you should give it as soon as you remember it, but if it is within a few hours of the regularly scheduled dose, wait and give it at the regular time. Do not double a dose as this can be toxic to your pet. Some other drugs can interact with this medication
so tell your veterinarian about any drugs or foods that you currently give your animal. Do not give new foods or medications without first asking your veterinarian. You should always wash your hands after applying this medication to your pet’s eyes as it can get into your eyes and cause dilation of the pupil.

Dogs and Cats: Atropine sulfate has a very long duration of action and is usually administered no more than once daily in dogs and cats.

Horses: Horses will usually receive atropine sulfate as an ointment once daily or as a solution administered through an eye catheter (subpalpebral lavage
system).

What Other Information Is Important About This Medication?
Atropine sulfate should be stored in a tight, light resistant, childproof container away from all children and other household pets.