Research has shown that low dose atropine therapy can slow down and control the progression of myopia (near-sightedness) effectively, but it is not a cure, nor does it reverse the condition. The goal of atropine therapy is to slow down the progression of myopia. Low dose atropine therapy currently remains as an off-label use for myopia control, as supportive evidence continues to emerge. Low dose atropine therapy can be combined with all other methods of myopia management.
While significantly slowing the progression of nearsightedness, low dose 0.01% to 0.05% atropine has not shown to increase pupil size or decrease near vision dramatically. Since these prescription drops are instilled prior to bedtime, only a very small percentage of children complained of problems with low dose atropine. Glasses and sunglasses can reduce symptoms if your child notices poor reading vision or lights seem too bright. As a pharmacological agent, there is also a risk of an allergic reaction at the front of the eye. Contraindications to use would include children with a history of heart and lung disease. Understand that vision correction, in the form of eyeglasses, contact lens or orthokeratology, is required to see clearly during the day.
Atropine treatment is intended for use:
- In patients who have at least -0.75 diopters of nearsightedness
- In patients who have shown significant progression in nearsightedness
- In patients who are at least 5-14 years of age.
- In patients who have been clearly informed of alternate treatments.
Follow-up schedule as follows (more frequent if necessary):
- Initial diagnostic exam
- 1 Day AM follow up
- 2 week follow up
- 2 month follow up
- 6 month follow up
Low dose atropine therapy is an excellent chose for children who are too young to wear contacts lens or ortho-k lenses. Talk to us today about atropine therapy!
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