Atropine

Question 1

Atropine - Type

Answer 1

Parasympathetic blocking agent

Question 2

Atropine - Presentation

Answer 2

600mcg in 1 ml

Question 3

Atropine - Actions (4)

Answer 3

Large number of actions
1. Blocks the action of the vagus nerve on the heart
2. Increases rate of the SA node
3. Increases speed of conduction through the AV node
4. Reduces about of secretions from some glands
Onset IV 2 mins, max effect 5 mins

Question 4

Atropine - Uses (3)

Answer 4

1. Bradyarrhythmias with poor perfusion
2. Organophosphate poisoning/spider bite with cholinergic symptoms
3. Bradycardia post suxamethonium use

Question 5

Atropine - Adverse effects (7)

Answer 5

1. Tacycardia
2. Palpitations
3. Blurred vision
4. Dry mouth
5. Confusion
6. Urinary retention
7. Increased body temperature (by decreasing perspiration)

Question 6

Atropine - Contraindication

Answer 6

Known hypersensitivity

Question 7

Atropine - Precautions (2)

Answer 7

1. Care needed in patients with glaucoma

2. Aims not to increase heart rate above 100/min

Question 8

Atropine - Doses

Answer 8

Bradyarrhythmias
Adult - 0.01mg/kg IV fast push. Repeat x 1 as req
Paediatric - not used

Organophosphate poisoning/cholinergic symptoms of spider bite
Adult & Paediatric - 0.01mg/kg IM/IV (fast push)
Double each repeat dose as required
No max.

Bradycardia post suxamethonium use
Adult - 0.01mg/kg fast push
Paediatric - not used