Atropine

Question 1

Brand Name

Answer 1

Atropine

Question 2

Drug Class

Answer 2

Anticholinergic

Question 3

Mechanism of Action

Answer 3

Inhibits action of acetylcholine at the parasympathetic neuroeffector sites and allows sympathetic control to increase heart rate

Question 4

Indications

Answer 4

Severe bradycardia, organophosphate poisoning, nerve agent exposure, RSI in pediatrics, Beta blocker and calcium channel blocker OD

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

Tachycardia, hypothermic bradycardia, unstable cardiovascular status w/ bleeding and myocardial ischemia, narrow angle glaucoma

Question 6

Adverse effects

Answer 6

drowsiness, confusion, headache, tachycardia, palpitations,N/V, pupil dilation, drymouth, blurred vision, flushed dry skin, paradoxical bradycardia when given at low doses.

Question 7

Precautions

Answer 7

Effects are enhanced by antihistamines, procainimide, quinidene, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and antidepressants.

Question 8

Dose

Answer 8

bradycardia: 0.5mg q 3-5 mins up to 3mg
ACLS: 0.04 mg/kg
Pedi: 0.02 mg/kg (minimum of 0.1mg)
Slow IV push