Description
Mechanism of Action
Atropine is an anticholinergic agent which competitively blocks the muscarinic receptors in peripheral tissues such as the heart, intestines, bronchial muscles, iris and secretory glands. Some central stimulation may occur. Atropine abolishes bradycardia and reduces heart block due to vagal activity. Smooth muscles in the bronchi and gut are relaxed while glandular secretions are reduced. It also has mydriatic and cycloplegic effect.
Absorption: Readily absorbed from the GI tract; also absorbed from mucous membranes, eye, and through intact skin.
Distribution: Distributes throughout the body and crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta.
Metabolism: Incomplete metabolism in the liver.
Excretion: Excreted in urine as unchanged drug and metabolites. Half-life reported to be 4 hr.
MIMS Class
Mydriatic Drugs / Antidotes, Detoxifying Agents & Drugs Used in Substance Dependence / Antispasmodics / Other Cardiovascular Drugs
ATC Classification
S01FA01 – atropine; Belongs to the class of anticholinergics used as mydriatics and cycloplegics. ;
A03BA01 – atropine; Belongs to the class of belladonna alkaloids, tertiary amines. Used in the treatment of functional
