Atropine (Injection)

Introduction:

Atropine (AT-roe-peen)

Helps keep your heart rate stable after a heart attack or during surgery. Lowers the amount of body fluids inside your mouth and throat before a surgery. This keeps you from possibly choking on your saliva while you are unconscious. Also treats many other conditions such as problems with heart rhythm or bladder control, stomach or intestinal disorders, or certain types of poisoning.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to atropine, or if you have glaucoma, prostate problems, or certain problems with digestion.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin, into a muscle, or into a vein.
  • A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

  • Tell your doctor if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These include sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, asthma, or other lung problems. Tell your doctor if you have any stomach problems such as GERD, or intestinal problems such as ulcerative colitis or obstruction.
  • Older adults may be more likely to have some of the side effects of this medicine.

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.
  • Fast heartbeat.
  • Lightheadedness or fainting.
  • Seizures.
  • Trouble swallowing.

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

  • Blurred vision, or eyes being more sensitive to light.
  • Constipation, problems with urination.
  • Decreased sweating.
  • Dry mouth, nose, or throat.
  • Feeling restless or tired.
  • Mild skin rash.
  • Muscle weakness.
  • Pain, itching, redness, or swelling of your skin where the needle is placed.
  • Upset stomach or problems with digestion.
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