Atropine Drops
- What is Atropine drops?1% Atropine eye drops were previously used safely for treating childhood eye conditions such as lazyeye. Recent scientific studies have found that when diluted Atropine 0.01% drops are instilled nightly;myopia progression can be slowed or stopped.
- Is Atropine drops new?Atropine eye drops have been used to dilate patient’s eyes for decades, however it is not FDA approved in its diluted form to treat myopia progression.
- Is the effect permanent?Studies show that this treatment slows down a child’s myopia degeneration for 1-2 years. I use this drop when children are too immature to wear “corneal reshaping” lenses. This seems to help slow down the determination of our children’s eyesight. Diluted Atropine drops allow the parents and doctors time, but is probably not a permanent solution.
- Can any doctor prescribe this eye drop and how do we get it filled?Any doctor interested in myopia stabilization may prescribe this drop in its diluted form. The drops must be diluted from the full strength by a compound pharmacist, licensed to perform this in a sterile environment. Pharmacy compounding is an established tradition which allows a physician to prescribe a very specific medication, prepared by a pharmacist, for a patient’s individual needs.
- How much does the drop cost? Is it covered by insurance?Diluted Atropine drops are NOT covered by insurance and can cost $100 per bottle. Usually, each bottle is approximately a three month supply.
- Where can parents find more information about this eye drop?I recommend the website: www.MyopiaPrevention.com Parents interested in Atropine eye drops, Ortho-K, and the topic of myopia will find it very comprehensive.
