Atropine Therapy
Atropine 1% eyedrops have been used ophthalmically for the purposes of dilation, cycloplegia, and other procedures, and have been FDA-approved for use in children as young as 3 months old since 1960.
This treatment, also known as Atropine Therapy for Myopia Control, can be used effectively for many years in children at a lower concentration. Although the specific low-dosage treatment is not FDA-approved, the low dosage has been used “off-label” for years to slow the progression of myopia.
Side effects of Atropine Therapy for Myopia Control are rare but may include pupillary dilation, glare, halos, local allergic reactions, or mildly blurred vision at near. After several weeks of use, the majority of side effects subside. This drop is used once every evening before bed, potentially for several years.