Here is a detailed overview of Atropine Ointment 1%:
✅ DESCRIPTION
Atropine Sulfate 1% Ophthalmic Ointment is a long-acting anticholinergic used in ophthalmology to cause mydriasis (pupil dilation) and cycloplegia (paralysis of accommodation). It is especially useful for pediatric patients and those requiring prolonged effects.
🧪 FORMULATION
- Active Ingredient: Atropine Sulfate 1% (10 mg/g)
- Base (Ointment vehicle):
- White petrolatum
- Mineral oil
- Lanolin or other inert base
- Form: Sterile ophthalmic ointment
🌿 NATURE
- Type: Muscarinic receptor antagonist (anticholinergic)
- Pharmacological Class: Mydriatic / Cycloplegic agent
- Mechanism of Action:
Blocks muscarinic receptors in the eye → leads to pupil dilation and relaxation of the ciliary muscle → inhibits accommodation and relieves ciliary spasm
💊 USES
- Therapeutic Indications:
- Uveitis / Iritis – to reduce inflammation, pain, and prevent posterior synechiae
- Amblyopia treatment (blurring the better eye to stimulate the weaker eye)
- Photophobia management
- Ciliary muscle spasm
- Post-operative care in inflammatory eye diseases
- Preferred in:
- Children or patients sensitive to eye drops
- Night-time application for sustained release
🌟 ADVANTAGES
- Prolonged duration (up to 7–14 days)
- Less frequent dosing than drops
- Sustained effect due to slow release from ointment base
- Better tolerated in children (less stinging compared to drops)
- Effective in chronic uveitis management
⚠️ PRECAUTIONS
- Common Side Effects:
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity (photophobia)
- Local irritation or allergic reaction
- Eyelid sticking or greasy residue
- Systemic Side Effects (especially in children):
- Dry mouth
- Flushed skin
- Rapid heartbeat
- Restlessness, fever, irritability (anticholinergic toxicity – rare)
- Contraindications:
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Known hypersensitivity to atropine or ingredients
- Special Care in Children:
- Use smallest effective amount
- Apply gentle punctal occlusion (press tear duct) for 1–2 minutes to reduce systemic absorption
🧊 STORAGE
- Store at 15°C to 25°C (room temperature)
- Protect from heat and direct sunlight
- Keep the tube tightly closed after use
- Do not freeze
- Discard within 4 weeks of opening or as per label
- Keep out of reach of children