Once you start using 0.01% Atropine Sulfate Eye Drops, can you stop using it?

0.01% Atropine Sulfate Eye Drops (EIKANCE) is a low-concentration atropine preparation commonly used to control the progression of myopia in children. In recent years, it has attracted widespread attention due to its low side effects and good efficacy. Many parents and patients often have a question after starting to use this drug: once the drug is taken, does it have to be continued and cannot be stopped?

In fact, whether and when the drug can be stopped needs to be judged based on the patient's specific situation and the doctor's professional advice. The main mechanism of action of atropine eye drops is to slow down the growth rate of the eye axis by relaxing the eye adjustment muscles, thereby controlling the progression of myopia. Since the progression of myopia has certain stage characteristics, long-term and continuous use of low-concentration atropine is usually recommended clinically to maintain its control effect.

If the patient stops taking the medication prematurely, myopia may appear "Rebound" phenomenon, that is, the axial length of the eye grows rapidly, leading to a rapid deepening of myopia. This situation is particularly obvious with high-concentration atropine. Although the rebound risk of low-concentration atropine such as 0.01% is low, there is still a certain possibility. Therefore, in order to minimize myopia rebound, it is usually recommended to gradually reduce or adjust the treatment plan under the guidance of a professional ophthalmologist, rather than suddenly stopping the medication.

On the other hand, individual differences are also large. After some children take medication for a period of time, their myopia progression tends to stabilize. Doctors may decide whether to try to stop medication or take medication intermittently based on changes in their eye axis and vision. In short, once you start using 0.01% Atropine Sulfate Eye Drops, you should not stop the medication on your own or adjust the medication plan at will. You must review it regularly and listen to your doctor's advice to ensure medication safety and maximize efficacy.

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