Atropine - oral


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Atropine helps to relax the muscle walls of the intestines.

It is used to treat some types of indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome (a disorder that involves abdominal pain and changes in bowel movement such as constipation or diarrhoea), and diverticular disease (a type of inflammation of the large bowel).
How do I take this medicine?
Take Atropine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day. It is best to take it at bedtime.

The dose of Atropine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your condition.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • angle-closure glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
  • paralytic ileus (bowel obstruction caused by slow movement or paralysis of the intestines)
  • pyloric stenosis (narrowing of the lower opening of the stomach)
  • prostate enlargement
  • myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness disorder)
as Atropine may not be suitable for you.
What should I take note of while taking this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • heart disease e.g. heart attack, rapid heartbeat, heart surgery
  • high blood pressure
  • urinary retention (inability to empty the bladder when urinating)
  • thyroid disease
  • fever
  • diarrhoea
  • heartburn (burning pain in your chest caused by food or acid from your stomach that backs up into your mouth)
  • ulcerative colitis (inflammation of the large intestines)
  • Down’s syndrome (a genetic disorder associated with physical growth and development delays and intellectual disability)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child or the elderly. Children and elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
What side effects could I experience?
Atropine may cause giddiness, unsteadiness, and visual disturbances. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.

Other side effects include any of the following: increased sensitivity to light, nausea, vomiting, constipation, thirst, difficulty swallowing, flushing, dry skin, and difficulty in passing urine.

Dry mouth is a common side effect of this medicine. If you experience severe dry mouth, take some sweets, mints or chewing gum to help reduce discomfort.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
  • medicine for cold or allergy e.g. promethazine
  • stomach medicines e.g. domperidone, metoclopramide
  • medicines to treat depression e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine
  • medicines for irregular heartbeat e.g. mexiletine, disopyramide
  • glyceryl trinitrate (medicine for chest pain)
  • medicines for mood disorders e.g. chlorpromazine, clozapine
  • medicines for Parkinson's disease (a disease that affects movement) e.g. amantadine, levodopa
  • ketoconazole (medicine to treat fungal infection)
  • phenylephrine eye drops (medicine used to help enlarge the pupil of the eye)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Atropine.

Always notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on atropine - oral and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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