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Atropine Ophthalmic

Prescription
Ophthalmic Anticholinergic / Mydriatic-Cycloplegic
Last reviewed 22 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
1 documented
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Competitively blocks muscarinic receptors in iris sphincter (causing mydriasis) and ciliary body (causing cycloplegia). Also stabilizes the blood-aqueous barrier, reducing protein leakage in uveitis. Longest-acting mydriatic (7–14 days in dogs).

At a glance

Class
Ophthalmic Anticholinergic / Mydriatic-Cycloplegic
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

First-line cycloplegic for anterior uveitis (reduces ciliary spasm pain, prevent
Dose
—
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q8–12h (uveitis); once (diagnostic)
🐈

Cat

Used for feline uveitis
Dose
—
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q12–24h

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
—
Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

IOP (rule out glaucoma before use)Pupillary responseSynechiae formation (uveitis)Schirmer tear test in KCS-prone patients

Interactions

Moderate — 1

Pilocarpine
moderate
Direct pharmacological antagonism: atropine (muscarinic antagonist) blocks pilocarpine (muscarinic agonist). Each negates the other's effect.
Management: Do not use concurrently in same eye. Allow atropine to wear off (7-14 days dogs) before switching to pilocarpine.

Brands

Other markets

Atropine Ophthalmic Solution
Isopto Atropine
Alcon

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Atropine Ophthalmic?
Atropine Ophthalmic is a ophthalmic anticholinergic / mydriatic-cycloplegic used in pets. Competitively blocks muscarinic receptors in iris sphincter (causing mydriasis) and ciliary body (causing cycloplegia). Also stabilizes the blood-aqueous barrier, reducing protein leakage in uveitis. Longest-acting mydriatic (7–14 days in dogs).
›What is Atropine Ophthalmic used for in pets?
Atropine Ophthalmic is used in veterinary medicine for: First-line cycloplegic for anterior uveitis (reduces ciliary spasm pain, prevent; Used for feline uveitis.
›What is the Atropine Ophthalmic dose for dogs?
For dogs, Atropine Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — First-line cycloplegic for anterior uveitis (reduces ciliary spasm pain, prevent: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q8–12h (uveitis); once (diagnostic). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Atropine Ophthalmic dose for cats?
For cats, Atropine Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline uveitis: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Atropine Ophthalmic need a prescription?
Yes. Atropine Ophthalmic is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →