Atropine eye preparations

About atropine eye preparations

Atropine is an antimuscarinic. It opens up the pupil of the eye and is used before eye examinations, before or after eye surgery and also to treat certain eye conditions which cause inflammation in the eye.

Before using atropine eye preparations

Before using atropine eye preparations make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you wear contact lenses.
• If you suffer from glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye).
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use atropine eye preparations

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Use this medication exactly as directed by your doctor.

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap or the tip of the vial
3. Tilt the head back and pull the lower lid of the eye down to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand, turn the container upside down near to the eye, try not to touch the eye
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release one drop
6. Close the eye and keep it closed for a minute or two
7. If you think that you have missed the eye, then insert another drop
8. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use atropine in both eyes
9. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with any surface, including the eye or fingers. If you have been supplied single dose vials throw away the vial after each application
10. Wash your hands

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Tilt the head back and pull the lower lid of the eye down to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand, turn the container upside down near to the eye, try not to touch the eye
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to squeeze a thin line of the ointment along the inside of the lower lid
6. Close the eye and blink for a minute or two to spread the ointment
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use atropine in both eyes
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with any surface, including the eye or fingers
9. Wash your hands

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not drive, operate machinery or do any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were unable to see properly, for at least one to two hours after administering a dose of atropine.
• If you are using any other eye drops or ointments, leave at least five minutes between each one.
• You should not wear contact lenses while you are being treated with this preparation.

Can atropine eye preparations cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store atropine eye preparations

• Do not store or use eye drops or eye ointment for longer than 4 weeks once opened.
• Minims® contain one dose of atropine only. Throw the container away after use.
• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines