Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Atropine Ophthalmic 0.05%

Atropine blocks muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the eye to dilate the pupil and paralyze accommodation.

Atropine blocks muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the eye to dilate the pupil and paralyze accommodation. Used for Myopia control in children (Phase 3).

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Atropine is an anticholinergic agent that competitively antagonizes muscarinic receptors on the iris sphincter muscle and ciliary muscle. By blocking acetylcholine signaling, it causes mydriasis (pupil dilation) and cycloplegia (paralysis of accommodation). In the context of myopia control, atropine may work by relaxing accommodation-induced stress on the eye and potentially altering scleral remodeling.

Approved indications

• Myopia control in children (Phase 3)

Common side effects

• Mydriasis (pupil dilation)
• Cycloplegia (accommodation paralysis)
• Photophobia
• Blurred vision
• Ocular irritation

Key clinical trials

• Atropine Eyedrops for Myopia Progression in Children and Adolescents (MODERATO STUDY) (PHASE3)
• Changes in Eye Shape With Myopia Management Interventions (PHASE4)
• Myopia Progression Control Using Atropine 0.05% After Pediatric Cataract Surgery And Intraocular Lens Implantation Surgery (NA)
• Myopia Control in Children: Comparison of Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments® Lenses Versus Atropine 0.05% Eyedrops (NA)
• Early-Onset Myopia Intervention Project (NA)
• Efficacy of Topical Atropine Eye Drops for Control of Myopia Progression Among Children Attending Mansoura University Ophthalmic Center (PHASE2, PHASE3)
• Effects Of Anaesthesia on Intraocular Pressure in Robotic Prostate Surgery (NA)
• MAD Trial: Myopia Atropine Dose (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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