Atropine

Generic Name

atropine

Trade Name

Atro-pen

Indication

decreases oral and respiratory secretions, treats sinus bradycardia and heart block, treatment of bronchospasm

Action

Atropine is an anticholinergic which means that it inhibits the effects of the parasympathetic nervous system, specifically acetylcholine.  This inhibition causes increase in HR, bronchodilation, decreased GI and respiratory secretions.

Therapeutic Class

antiarrhythmic

Pharmacologic Class

anticholinergic, antimuscarinic

Nursing Considerations

Avoid in acute hemorrhage, tachycardia, and angle closure glaucoma

monitor patient for tachycardia and palpitations

may cause urinary retention in elderly patients

patients may experience constipation due to slowed GI motility