Atropine

Abstract

Atropine is a poisonous white crystalline alkaloid extracted from roots and leaves of dianqiecao (Belladonnae Herba) and mantuoluo (Mandala). Atropine sulphate is commonly used in clinics. Atropine is a blocker of typical M-choline receptor. Therefore, atropine sulphate was mainly used to treat toxic shock and organic phosphorus pesticide poisoning, to relieve visceral colic, as preanaesthetic medication and to reduce bronchial mucus secretion. The indications of atropine sulphate eye gel are iridocyclitis, fundus examination and mydriasis. However, clinical application of atropine sulphate was limited, because of its toxicity and small dosage window. After a prolonged endeavour, some progress has been made in respects such as fast action, longer duration of action, reduction of side effects and convenient use.