CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Andrea Tarr, Fear Free,
Medication: Atropine
Medication: Atropine
Your cat has been prescribed atropine ophthalmic solution or ointment to dilate the pupil and provide pain relief.
Key points:
• This is not a licensed veterinary product. Your veterinarian will explain about off-license use of medications.
• Avoid direct sunlight when cat is being treated with atropine – their eyes will be more sensitive to sunlight because the pupil is dilated.
• Dosage: as directed by your veterinarian.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.
Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Atropine (ah-tro-peen).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK, Europe or the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug. Your veterinarian can explain off-license use of medications to you.
Class of medication
- Topical parasympatholytic agent. When applied to the eye causes pupil dilation.
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
- Do not refrigerate or freeze.
- Protect from sunlight.
Why has my cat been prescribed atropine?
Your veterinarian has prescribed atropine to dilate your pet’s pupil. This can relieve pain associated with some eye disorders.
How is the medication given?
Atropine ointment or liquid is applied to the affected eye. It is usually applied once every 8-12 hours for the first 24 hours and then once every 24-72 hours to maintain pupil dilation, but your veterinarian will advise as to dosing regimen.
If you are also applying other medications to the eye, leave at least 5 minutes between applying different products.
When treating the eye, wipe away any excess medication using a clean cloth.
Atropine should not be used if your pet has glaucoma.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Side-effects may include blurred vision, intolerance of light and increased intra-ocular pressure. Let your veterinarian know if you have any concerns.
Overdose or ingestion of atropine may result in more serious side-effects including irregular heartbeat and vomiting. Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Atropine has been reported to interact with the following medications when used in humans, but this information relates to intravenous use of this medication and data regarding veterinary use is lacking: antihistamines, local anesthetics, quinidine, pethidine, benzodiazepine, phenothiazines, primidone, disopyramide, thiazide diuretics and metoclopramide.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Your veterinarian will advise as to how long your pet may need to be on this medication, but it’s usually a short-term therapy.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused atropine safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save atropine for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Atropine should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.
If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center immediately.
Pregnant women should not handle this product.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on atropine?
Your cat will be closely monitored by your veterinarian while taking this medication.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on atropine can be found on the package insert or by contacting your veterinarian.
Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK or Europe. Your veterinary surgeon may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your cat’s medication.