Atropine

Question 1

Generic AND brand name of Atropine

Answer 1

…is Atropine Sulfate

Question 2

Drug class of Atropine

Answer 2

Anticholinergic

Question 3

Atropine’s mechanism of action

Answer 3

Inhibits action of acetylcholine at the
parasympathetic neuroeffector sites.
Allows sympathetic control to increase
heart rate

Question 4

Indications of Atropine

Answer 4

Hemodynamically unstable bradycardia, organophosphate poisoning, nerve agent exposure, RSI in pediatrics, Beta Blocker, and Calcium Channel Blocker overdose.

Question 5

Contraindications of Atropine

Answer 5

Tachycardia, Hypothermic Bradycardia
Unstable cardiovascular status with bleeding &
Myocardial ischemia, Narrow angle glaucoma

Question 6

Adverse effects of Atropine

Answer 6

Drowsiness, confusion, headache, tachycardia
Palpitations, N/V, pupil dilation, dry mouth
Blurred vision, flushed dry hot skin, paradoxical
Bradycardia when given at low doses

Question 7

Precautions in administering Atropine

Answer 7

Effects are enhanced by antihistamines,
Procainamide, quinidine, antipsychotics,
Benzodiazepines and antidepressants

Question 8

Adult dose of Atropine for bradycardia

Answer 8

Bradycardia = 0.5 mg q 3-5 min
Not to exceed total dose of 0.04 mg/kg (max 3 mg)

ACLS max is 0.04 mg/kg

Question 9

Pediatric dose of Atropine

Answer 9

0.02 mg/kg (min 0.1 mg)