Can 0.01% atropine sulfate eye drops really control the growth of myopia?

0.01% Atropine Sulfate Eye Drops-EIKANCE is currently one of the globally recognized drugs for the prevention and control of myopia in children, and its efficacy has been confirmed by multiple high-quality clinical studies. Its mechanism of action is by mildly inhibiting the ciliary muscle response and retinal dopamine signal regulation, thereby affecting the growth of the eye axis, which is the key to controlling the fundamental progression of myopia. A large number of clinical studies, especially the ATOM series study in Singapore and the LAMP study in China, have shown that 0.01% atropine has a statistically significant effect in reducing the annual growth rate of myopia (approximately 50%-60% reduction) and controlling axial elongation, and its side effects are significantly reduced compared to mid- and high-concentration preparations.

The biggest advantage of 0.01% atropine sulfate eye drops is its high compliance and low side effects, which is especially suitable for long-term use. It does not significantly cause pupil dilation or accommodation paralysis, so it has minimal impact on children's learning and outdoor activities, helping parents and children to adhere to daily medication. Widely used in Australia and New Zealand, EIKANCE is included in professional ophthalmology guidelines and is recommended as the first-choice intervention for children aged 6 to 14 years old whose myopia increases ≥0.5D per year. It is worth noting that this drug is not used to treat existing high myopia, but to delay the further progression of myopia. At present, 0.01% atropine sulfate eye drops have been widely used in Australia, New Zealand and other places, and have been included in clinical guideline recommendations.

It needs to be emphasized that although0.01% atropine sulfate eye drops cannot "cure" myopia, but with long-term regular use, it can significantly delay the progression of myopia and help reduce the risk of high myopia-related complications in adulthood (such as retinal detachment, macular degeneration, glaucoma, etc.). Therefore, if children's myopia develops rapidly, parents should consult an ophthalmologist as soon as possible to evaluate whether it is suitable to use 0.01% atropine sulfate eye drops, and use scientific medication under professional guidance, combined with comprehensive intervention methods such as outdoor activities and visual hygiene, to improve the effect of myopia control.

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