See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Atropine
The generic name for atropine sulfate is atropine [1].
What is atropine used for?
Atropine is used to treat a variety of conditions. It can be used to slow a fast heart rate (bradycardia) [2]. It is also an antidote for certain types of poisoning, including organophosphate poisoning (found in some pesticides and nerve agents) and mushroom poisoning [3]. In ophthalmology, atropine eye drops are used to dilate pupils for eye examinations and to treat certain eye muscle problems like strabismus [4]. It can also be used to reduce secretions, such as saliva or stomach acid, before surgery or to manage symptoms of Parkinson's disease [5].
How does atropine work?
Atropine is an anticholinergic medication. It works by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, at muscarinic receptors in the body [6]. By blocking these receptors, atropine can increase heart rate, reduce secretions, relax smooth muscles, and affect the pupil of the eye [4][6].
Are there different forms of atropine?
Atropine is available in various forms for different uses. It can be administered intravenously for cardiac conditions, as an injection for poisoning and pre-surgery, as eye drops for ophthalmological uses, and orally for certain conditions [1][4][5].
What are the side effects of atropine?
Common side effects of atropine can include dry mouth, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, difficulty urinating, constipation, and an increased heart rate [7]. More serious side effects can occur, especially with higher doses or in sensitive individuals [7].
When does atropine patent exclusivity expire?
Information regarding specific patent expiry dates for atropine, as it is a well-established drug with a long history, is not readily available through standard drug patent databases like those tracking newer, novel therapeutics. Older drugs like atropine are generally available as generics. For detailed patent information on specific formulations or related compounds, consulting specialized patent databases or DrugPatentWatch.com might be necessary [8].
Who makes generic atropine?
Numerous pharmaceutical companies manufacture generic versions of atropine. These include companies that produce injectable solutions, eye drops, and oral formulations [1].
What are the risks associated with atropine use?
The risks associated with atropine use are dependent on the dosage, route of administration, and the patient's underlying health conditions. Risks can include adverse cardiovascular effects, urinary retention, and worsening of conditions like glaucoma [7]. Overdose can lead to severe anticholinergic toxicity, characterized by symptoms like fever, hallucinations, and coma [6].
What are the alternatives to atropine?
Alternatives to atropine depend on the condition being treated. For bradycardia, other medications like epinephrine or dopamine may be used [2]. For poisoning, specific antidotes are available [3]. In ophthalmology, other mydriatic (pupil-dilating) or cycloplegic (affecting accommodation) agents exist [4].
How much does generic atropine cost?
The cost of generic atropine varies significantly depending on the dosage form, strength, quantity, and the pharmacy where it is purchased. Generic medications are generally much less expensive than their brand-name counterparts [1].
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Sources:
1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Drugs@FDA. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/
2. American Heart Association. (2020). Bradycardia. Retrieved from [https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/ அறிகுறிகள்-of-heart-attack/bradycardia](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/ அறிகுறிகள்-of-heart-attack/bradycardia)
3. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. (n.d.). Organophosphate Pesticides. Retrieved from https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/organophos/index.cfm
4. National Eye Institute. (n.d.). Medications Used in Eye Exams. Retrieved from https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/healthy-vision/eye-exams/medications-used-eye-exams
5. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (n.d.). Parkinson's Disease: Hope Through Research. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Parkinsons-Disease-Fact-Sheet
6. National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Atropine. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682246.html
7. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Atropine (Oral Route, Parenteral Route, Rectal Route). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atropine-oral-route-parenteral-route-rectal-route/side-effects/drg-20062145
8. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Drug Patent Database. Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/