Atropine (By mouth)

Introduction:

Atropine (AT-roe-peen)

Treats urinary incontinence, and stomach problems such as ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome. Also decreases the amount of saliva in your mouth or throat to prepare you for surgery.

Brand Name(s):

Sal-Tropine

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to atropine or to similar medicines such as dicyclomine (Bentyl®), glycopyrrolate (Robinul®), or scopolamine (Transderm Scop®). You should not use this medicine if you have asthma, glaucoma, (or eye problems that could lead to glaucoma), prostate problems, or a stomach disorder called pyloric stenosis.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • Take the medicine 30 minutes to 1 hour before meals, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using ambenonium (Mytelase®).
  • Dry mouth that is caused by this medicine can be made worse if you are also using other medicines that cause dry mouth. These would include medicines to treat depression, Parkinson's disease, motion sickness, cold or allergy symptoms, or stomach problems.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have heart disease, heart rhythm problems, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, or a lung disorder or breathing problems. Tell your doctor if you have a colostomy or ileostomy.
  • This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
  • It may be easier for you to have heat stroke while you are using this medicine. Avoid over-exerting yourself when you are in a hot environment. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Confusion, hallucinations, anxiety.
  • Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat.
  • Feeling weak but restless.
  • Fever, or hot dry skin without sweating.
  • Problems with speech, walking, or swallowing.
  • Red skin rash.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Blurred vision.
  • Constipation.
  • Decrease in how much or how often you urinate.
  • Depression.
  • Dry mouth or nose, increased thirst.
  • Feeling overly sensitive to light.
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