Atropine

Question 1

Atropine Sulfate

Class

Answer 1

Parasympatholytic-Parasympathetic blocker (Anticholinergic)

Question 2

Atropine Sulfate

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

Potent parasympathetic blocker used to increase the heart rate in hemodynamically significant bradycardia (accompanied by hypotension, shortness of breath, chest pain, AMS, and/or shock). It blocks acetylcholine receptors, inhibiting parasympathetic stimulation. The effects are primarily chronotropic, and atropine has almost no inotropic effect. It acts as an antidote for organophosphate poisoning.

Question 3

Atropine Sulfate

Indication

Answer 3

Hemodynamically significant bradycardia with a pulse; organophosphate poisoning

Question 4

Atropine Sulfate

Contraindication

Answer 4

Tachycardias, PEA, asystole, cardiac arrest.

Question 5

Atropine Sulfate

Adverse Reaction

Answer 5

Blurred vision, dilated pupils, dry mouth, tachycardia,

drowsiness, urinary retention, and confusion

Question 6

Atropine Sulfate

Drug Interaction

Answer 6

Few

Question 7

Atropine Sulfate

Adult Dosage

Answer 7

0.5 mg IV repeated every 3-5 minutes until a maximum of 3 mg is reached.

Question 8

Atropine Sulfate

Pediatric Dosage

Answer 8

0.02 mg/kg minimum dose of 0.1 mg, max single dose of 0.5 mg.

Question 9

Atropine Sulfate

Onset

Answer 9

Immediate

Question 10

Atropine Sulfate

Duration

Answer 10

4 hours

Question 11

Atropine Sulfate
Special Considerations
Dosage less than 0.5mg

Answer 11

Doses less than 0.5 mg can cause paradoxical slowing of the heart rate

Question 12

Atropine Sulfate
Special Considerations
Patients w/ CAD

Answer 12

Use cautiously in patients with CAD as increased heart rate and increased myocardial oxygen demand may worsen ischemia.

Question 13

Atropine Sulfate
Special Considerations
Bradycardia

Answer 13

Atropine may worsen the bradycardia associated with high degree heart blocks. Pacing should be available.