Atropine (Atropine Sulfate) - Description and Clinical Pharmacology

Description

Atropine Sulfate Injection, USP is a sterile, isotonic solution of Atropine Sulfate in Water for Injection q.s. Sodium Chloride added for isotonicity. pH adjusted with Sulfuric Acid. Preservative free. Atropine is a white crystalline alkaloid which may be extracted from belladonna root and hyoscyamine or may be produced synthetically. It is used in the form of atropine sulfate because this compound has much greater solubility in water. The structural formula of Atropine is as follows:

Molecular Formula                         Molecular Weight
C17H23NO3                                  289.37

Clinical Pharmacology

Atropine has two actions. The most important therapeutic action is the inhibition of smooth muscle and glands innervated by postganglionic cholinergic nerves. Atropine also has central-nervous system activity, which may be stimulating or depressing depending upon the dose.