As myopia becomes more common, researchers and eye care professionals are turning to innovative solutions to manage its progression. One such breakthrough is the use of low-dose atropine drops—a simple, effective treatment that helps slow the development of myopia. But how do these drops work, and why are they so effective?
Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long or when the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in blurry distance vision, while near objects remain clear. While corrective lenses or contact lenses address the symptoms, they do not slow or halt the progression of myopia.
Atropine drops are a low-dose, topical medication derived from the plant Atropa belladonna. Traditionally used in higher concentrations for dilating the pupils during eye exams, atropine has been repurposed in much lower doses (0.01% to 0.05%) for myopia management.
Myopia progression is closely linked to the elongation of the eyeball (axial elongation). Atropine is thought to influence the biochemical pathways involved in this growth, preventing or slowing it. Some studies suggest atropine alters the way the retina processes visual signals that contribute to eye growth, effectively halting the progression of myopia.
Accommodative stress occurs when the eye focuses on nearby objects for prolonged periods, potentially contributing to myopia. Atropine helps relax the eye’s focusing mechanism, reducing this strain.
Atropine drops are most effective for children and adolescents experiencing rapid myopia progression. Early intervention is crucial, as slowing myopia during these formative years can reduce the risk of severe vision problems later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts.
• Proven Efficacy: Clinical studies have shown that low-dose atropine can reduce myopia progression by 50-60% in children.
• Minimal Side Effects: Atropine drops at low concentrations have fewer side effects, such as light sensitivity or blurry near vision, compared to higher doses.
• Simple Application: Administering one drop in each eye at bedtime is easy for parents and children to incorporate into their routine.
Atropine therapy is often part of a comprehensive myopia management plan, which may include:
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Specialized contact lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea.
• Multifocal Contact Lenses: Lenses designed to reduce the progression of myopia.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Encouraging outdoor activities and reducing screen time can help mitigate risk factors associated with myopia progression.
Atropine drops represent a groundbreaking advancement in the field of myopia management, offering a safe and effective way to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children and adolescents. By targeting the root causes of myopia progression, this treatment not only helps preserve vision but also reduces the long-term risks of serious eye conditions. Combined with other myopia management strategies and healthy lifestyle changes, atropine drops provide a powerful tool for protecting your child’s eye health.
If you’re concerned about your child’s myopia or want to learn more about atropine drops, schedule a consultation with eye&I™ today. Visit our office in Bayside or Great Neck, New York. Call (718) 279-2020 or (516) 344-5662 to book an appointment.