Possible side effects and relief methods of using 0.01% atropine sulfate eye drops (EIKANCE)

0.01% atropine sulfate eye drops (EIKANCE) is a low-concentration atropine eye drop, mainly used to delay the progression of myopia in adolescents and children. Its mechanism of action is to inhibit excessive growth of the axial length of the eye, thereby reducing the rate of progression of myopia. Due to its lower concentration, it has fewer side effects than higher concentrations of atropine sulfate (such as 0.1%, 0.5%), but some adverse reactions may still occur.

2. Possible side effects

Although the concentration of 0.01% is low, some patients may still experience mild discomfort. The following are common side effects:

(1) Temporary blurred vision

Performance: Some people will experience blurred vision for a short period of time after use, especially when reading or looking at close objects.

Reason: Atropine temporarily inhibits the adjustment ability of the ciliary muscles, resulting in blurred short-distance vision.

(2) Photophobia (light sensitivity)

Symptoms: Some patients may experience eye irritation or discomfort when exposed to sunlight or strong light.

Cause: Atropine can cause the pupils to dilate slightly, making the eyes more sensitive to light.

(3) Dry or irritated eyes

Performance: Some people may experience dryness, foreign body sensation or slight irritation in their eyes after use.

Reason: Atropine may affect tear production, causing temporary dryness of the eyes.

(4) headache

Manifestations: A very small number of patients may experience mild headache after use.

Cause: Pupil dilation and changes in eye accommodation may cause discomfort, resulting in a mild headache on the forehead or around the eyes.

(5) allergic reaction (rare)

Performance: A very small number of people may have allergic reactions to atropine sulfate or other ingredients in the eye drops, manifesting as eye redness, itching, increased tearing, etc.

Treatment: If obvious allergic symptoms occur, discontinue use immediately and consult an ophthalmologist.

3. How to relieve these discomforts?

(1) for blurred vision

Blurred vision usually resolves on its own within a short period of time after taking the medication, so there is no need to worry too much.

If you have obvious difficulty with near vision, you can choose to adjust the reading distance or use appropriate light to avoid eye fatigue.

(2) Targets photophobia (light sensitivity)

When going out during the day, you can wear a sun hat or sunglasses to reduce eye irritation from strong light.

The indoor environment can appropriately adjust the light brightness to avoid direct light sources.

(3) For dryness or irritation of eyes

Use artificial tears (preservative-free eye drops) to keep your eyes moist.

Try to avoid using electronic screens for long periods of time to reduce eye fatigue.

(4) for headaches

Headaches are usually short-lived, and you can rest appropriately or reduce reading for long periods of time.

If your headache persists, try using warm compresses to relieve eye pressure.

If symptoms are severe, it is recommended to consult your doctor whether the medication regimen needs to be adjusted.

(5) for allergic reactions

If allergic symptoms occur, stop use and seek medical advice immediately.

For mild symptoms, cold compress or anti-allergic eye drops can be used (doctor's guidance is required).

4. Other notes

Avoid adjusting the dosage on your own: It is recommended to use 1 times a day and 1 drops each time according to the doctor's guidance to reduce the occurrence of side effects.

Avoid rubbing your eyes after use: to prevent the drug from irritating the eyes and worsening discomfort.

Regular review: Patients who use atropine sulfate eye drops for a long time need to regularly check intraocular pressure, visual acuity and axial changes to ensure the safety of medication.

Store medications properly: To avoid misuse by children, eye drops should be stored in a cool, dark place and follow the drug's expiry date.

0.01%Atropine Sulfate Eye Drops (EIKANCE) is currently one of the effective means of delaying the progression of myopia. It has relatively few side effects, but discomforts such as blurred vision, photophobia, dry eyes or mild headaches may still occur. Most side effects are short-lived and can be alleviated by adjusting eye habits, using artificial tears, and wearing protective glasses. If severe discomfort or allergy occurs, discontinue use immediately and consult an ophthalmologist to ensure medication safety and maximize therapeutic effect.

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