Definition of Atropine
1. Noun. A poisonous crystalline alkaloid extracted from the nightshade family; used as an antispasmodic and to dilate the eye pupil; also administered in large amounts as an antidote for organophosphate nerve agents or organophosphate insecticides.
Generic synonyms: Antidote,
Counterpoison,
Antispasmodic,
Antispasmodic Agent,
Spasmolytic,
Mydriatic,
Mydriatic Drug,
Alkaloid,
Poison,
Poisonous Substance,
ToxicantSpecialized synonyms: Belladonna Definition of Atropine
1. n. A poisonous, white, crystallizable alkaloid, extracted from the Atropa belladonna, or deadly nightshade, and the Datura Stramonium, or thorn apple. It is remarkable for its power in dilating the pupil of the eye. Called also daturine.
Definition of Atropine
1. Noun. (context: poison pharmaceutical drug) An alkaloid extracted from the plant deadly nightshade (''Atropa belladonna'') and other sources. Though overdoses would be fatal it is used as a drug in medicine for its paralytic effects (e.g. in surgery to relax muscles, in dentistry to dry the mouth, in ophthalmology to dilate the pupils). ¹
¹ Source: wiktionary.com
Definition of Atropine
1. a poisonous alkaloid [n -S]
Medical Definition of Atropine
1.
A toxic alkaloid extracted from belladonna and other members of thenightshade family, it is typically used to dilate the eye and to stopmuscular spasms.
Pharmacologic action: Parasympatholytic. Competitive blockade of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors. Increases sinus node automaticity and AV conduction.
Uses: Treat bradycardia, asystole, and AV block
Dose: 0.5 - 1.0 mg for bradycardia every 3 - 5 min to a total dose of 0.04 mg/kg. Doses smaller than 0.5 mg can cause a paradoxical bradycardia due to sympathomimetic effects Typically 3 mg is adequate to completely block vagal effects Atropine is well absorbed via endotracheal route - administer 1-2 mg diluted in 10 mL sterile water or normal saline.
Potential complications: 1. Tachyarrhythmias 2. Exacerbation of myocardial ischemia 3. Low dose may cause paradoxical bradycardia 4. Dry mouth, urinary retention, flushed and hot skin 5. Crosses blood-brain barrier which can cause delirium
Note: The denervated heart will not respond to atropine.
(15 Mar 2000)
Lexicographical Neighbors of Atropine
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