Once you start using EIKANCE 0.01% Atropine Sulfate Eye Drops, do you have to continue using it to the end?

Atropine sulfate eye drops 0.01% (trade name EIKANCE) is a drug used to control the progression of myopia in children and adolescents. Whether it is necessary to insist on using it to the end depends mainly on the doctor's guidance and the patient's specific situation. Usually, the use of EIKANCE needs to be monitored by a professional ophthalmologist, and the treatment cycle must be completed in accordance with the doctor's instructions. During treatment, it is important to regularly review the refractive status and axial length of the eye to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the drug.

Once startedEIKANCE, patients or parents should not discontinue treatment on their own. Because the drug reduces the sensitivity of the eyeball to light and reduces the growth of the eye axis, thereby slowing down the progression of myopia. Stopping the medication midway may cause myopia progression to resume or even accelerate, affecting the treatment effect. Therefore, continued medication can maximize the control effect of the medication and help delay the progression of myopia.

However,EIKANCEnot all patients require long-term continued medication. Doctors will determine the duration of treatment based on the patient's age, rate of myopia progression, and ocular response. After some patients take medication for a period of time, their myopia becomes stable, and doctors may recommend gradually stopping the medication or adjusting the medication regimen. In addition, treatment may need to be suspended or discontinued if significant adverse reactions occur.

In short, whether you must insist on using it to the end should follow the evaluation and advice of a professional doctor. Patients and their families should maintain close communication with their doctors, conduct regular follow-up visits, and use EIKANCE scientifically and rationally to ensure the safety and effectiveness of treatment. Stopping medication or adjusting medication at will may have a negative impact on myopia control.

Reference materials:https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/profs/datasheet/e/EikanceEyeDrops.pdf