Low-Dose AtropineEye Drops
A simple nightly eye drop that slows myopia progression. Easy to administer, minimal side effects at low doses, and can be combined with other treatments.
30-80%
Effectiveness
4-16
Age Range
Nightly
One Drop
How Atropine Works
A pharmacological approach to slowing eye growth
The Science
Atropine is a muscarinic receptor antagonist that has been used in eye care for decades. At low concentrations, it appears to slow the signaling pathways that trigger excessive eye growth, without significantly affecting pupil size or focusing ability.
Blocks signals that promote eye elongation
Low doses minimize side effects
Can be combined with other treatments
Simple Administration
Just one drop in each eye at bedtime. Takes less than a minute and becomes part of the nightly routine.
Combination Friendly
Can be used alongside glasses, Ortho-K, or MiSight for enhanced myopia control in rapid progressors.
Customizable Dose
Doctors can adjust concentration based on your child's response and tolerance, from 0.01% to 0.05%.
Quick Facts
FDA Status
Off-label use; FDA approval pending (NVK-002)
Administration
One drop per eye at bedtime
Cost Range
$300 - $600/year (compounding pharmacy)
Best For
Children who prefer drops over contacts, or as add-on therapy
Concentration Guide
Different concentrations offer varying levels of efficacy and side effects
| Concentration | Efficacy | Side Effects | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.01% | 30-50% | Minimal | Most commonly prescribed; best balance of efficacy and tolerability |
| 0.025% | 40-55% | Low | Moderate option for children who need more effect |
| 0.05% | 50-65% | Moderate | Higher efficacy but more photophobia; may need photochromic lenses |
| 0.1%+ | 60-80% | Significant | Reserved for rapid progressors; requires careful monitoring |
Your eye care provider will recommend the appropriate concentration based on your child's myopia progression rate and tolerance.
Clinical Research
Decades of research support atropine's effectiveness in myopia control
Reduction in Myopia Progression
Depending on concentration used
Key Clinical Studies
Is Atropine Right for Your Child?
Atropine is a versatile option that works for many children, especially those who prefer drops over contact lenses or need combination therapy.
Ideal Candidates:
Age Range
4-16 years (varies by protocol)
Myopia Range
Any level of myopia
Administration
One drop per eye at bedtime
Combination
Can be used with glasses, contacts, or Ortho-K
Monitoring
Regular eye exams required
Considerations:
Requires nightly administration (parent involvement)
May cause mild light sensitivity at higher doses
Must be obtained from compounding pharmacy
Not yet FDA-approved specifically for myopia control
Some rebound effect possible when stopping treatment
Cost Breakdown
Understanding the investment in atropine treatment
Typical Annual Cost
$400 - $800
Note: Atropine must be obtained from a compounding pharmacy with a prescription. Most insurance plans do not cover compounded medications. FSA/HSA funds can typically be used.
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Key Research Sources
Peer-reviewed studies supporting this content
Atropine for the Treatment of Childhood Myopia (ATOM 2)
Ophthalmology
Low-dose atropine (0.01%) slows myopia progression by ~50% with minimal side effects.
Low-Concentration Atropine for Myopia Progression (LAMP)
Ophthalmology
0.05% atropine showed the best balance of efficacy and tolerability.
Combination of Orthokeratology and Atropine
Ophthalmology
Combining Ortho-K with 0.01% atropine provided better control than either alone.
Effect of Low-Concentration Atropine Eyedrops vs Placebo on Myopia Incidence in Children: The LAMP2 Randomized Clinical Trial
JAMA
0.05% atropine reduced 2-year myopia incidence by 47% vs placebo in non-myopic children aged 4-9.
Low-Dose 0.01% Atropine Eye Drops vs Placebo for Myopia Control: A Randomized Clinical Trial
JAMA Ophthalmology
0.01% atropine did NOT significantly slow myopia progression in US children compared to placebo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is atropine safe for children?
Yes, atropine has been used safely in children for decades. At low concentrations (0.01-0.05%), side effects are minimal. Your eye doctor will monitor your child regularly.
Why isn't atropine FDA-approved for myopia control?
While atropine is FDA-approved for other eye conditions, its use for myopia control is currently "off-label." Clinical trials for FDA approval (NVK-002) are underway and showing promising results.
What are the side effects?
At low doses (0.01%), most children experience no side effects. Higher concentrations may cause mild light sensitivity and near vision blur, which can be managed with photochromic lenses or reading glasses.
Can atropine be combined with other treatments?
Yes! Atropine is often used in combination with Ortho-K, MiSight, or myopia control glasses for enhanced effect, especially in rapid progressors.
How long does my child need to use atropine?
Treatment typically continues until myopia stabilizes, usually through the teenage years. Your doctor will monitor progression and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
Ready to Explore Atropine?
Find an eye care professional who prescribes low-dose atropine and schedule a consultation for your child.
Find Atropine Specialists by City
Connect with certified myopia control specialists offering atropine treatment in your area.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Atropine eye drops require a prescription. Always consult with a qualified eye care professional to determine if atropine is appropriate for your child.
Key Research Citations
• Chua WH, et al. Atropine for the treatment of childhood myopia. Ophthalmology. 2006.
• Chia A, et al. ATOM2 Study: 0.5%, 0.1%, and 0.01% doses. Ophthalmology. 2012.
• Yam JC, et al. LAMP Study. Ophthalmology. 2019.
Compare Other Proven Myopia Treatment Options
Every child is different. Explore all evidence-based options.
Ortho-K
Custom lenses worn overnight reshape the cornea while your child sleeps. Clear vision all day — no glasses.
Learn about Ortho-KMiSight 1 day
Soft daily contact lenses designed specifically to slow myopia progression in children ages 8–12.
Learn about MiSight 1 dayMyopia Control Glasses
Specialized lenses like Stellest and MiYOSMART that slow progression — no contacts required.
Learn about Myopia Control GlassesOur content follows strict editorial standards and is reviewed by a qualified eye care professional.
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Use of this site does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Atropine eye drops require a prescription from a qualified eye care professional.
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