Effects of Atropine on Cats and Dogs: A Comprehensive O

The autonomic nervous system is divided into the sympathetic nervous system (responsible for the fight or flight response) and the parasympathetic nervous system. Generally, these two systems are at odds with each other.

Upon stimulation, the sympathetic nervous system increases heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac activity. Pupils dilate, and gastrointestinal function diminishes. The parasympathetic nervous system, primarily through a nerve called the vagus nerve, slows heart rate, lowers blood pressure, stimulates gastrointestinal function, and triggers saliva and digestion.

Cells contain targets known as receptors, which are stimulated by chemical substances released by the nervous system. In the parasympathetic nervous system, the neurotransmitter released by the nerves is acetylcholine, and the receptors are called muscarinic receptors.

Atropine blocks muscarinic receptors, thereby inhibiting the action of acetylcholine and reducing the parasympathetic nervous system's activity. Therefore, atropine is classified as an antimuscarinic drug. Sometimes, they are also referred to as "anticholinergic drugs" or "parasympatholytic agents," terms that also describe their effects.

When the muscarinic part of the parasympathetic nervous system is blocked, the sympathetic nervous system becomes more prominent. Atropine is a prescription medication that can only be obtained from a veterinarian or prescribed by one.

Atropine's Composition

This medication is registered for use in both humans and animals.

Atropine is only available under its generic name. There are human and veterinary formulations available.

Atropine's Uses in Cats and Dogs

1. Atropine is used before surgical anesthesia to reduce saliva and respiratory secretions.

2. It is often combined with many anesthetics to prevent a decrease in heart rate.

3. It is also used to treat dangerous bradycardia and is an essential medication in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

4. Atropine is an antidote for certain insecticides (like cholinesterase inhibitors) and mushroom poisoning.

5. It is also used to reduce drooling, vomiting, and nausea.

6. Similar atropine compounds have been used to treat vomiting caused by motion sickness.

7. They have also been used to treat acute diarrhea in animals.

8. Atropine can be used to dilate the pupils of the eyes, which can reduce eye pain and prevent complications from various eye diseases.

9. Atropine counters compounds that constrict the respiratory tract and cause coughing. Therefore, atropine and similar compounds can be used in animals that may have difficulty breathing, such as those with asthmalike conditions.

Precautions and Side Effects

1. Generally, atropine prescribed by a veterinarian is safe and effective, but this drug can also cause side effects in some animals.

2. Atropine should not be used in animals known to be allergic to the drug.

3. It should not be used if there is a suspicion of gastrointestinal obstruction or infection.

4. Do not use atropine if there is inflammation in the large intestine.

5. Never inject atropine into animals diagnosed with glaucoma.

6. Atropine may interact with other medications. Consult your veterinarian to determine if other medications your pet is taking will interact with atropine. These medications include certain antihistamines, meperidine, diazepam, metoclopramide, and procainamide.

7. Atropine should be used cautiously in animals with tachycardia or compromised kidney, heart, or liver function.

8. When using the ophthalmic formulation of atropine, some animals, especially cats, may excessively drool due to the drug's bitter taste.

9. Other side effects include: dry mouth, constipation, central nervous system stimulation, blurred vision, drowsiness, or ataxia (unsteady gait). Additionally, due to dry mouth, atropine may cause some animals to drink excessive amounts of water.

Atropine's Specifications

1. Atropine is available in various injection concentrations.

2. There are also 0.4 mg tablets available.

3. Atropine can also be found as an ophthalmic preparation at 1% or 2% concentration.

Atropine's Dosage and Administration

Note: Always consult a veterinarian before administering the medication.

1. The typical dose of atropine is 0.01 to 0.02 mg per pound of body weight (0.022 to 0.044 mg/kg). Typically, atropine is administered via injection.

2. For use as an antidote for certain poisonings, a dose of 1 mg per pound of body weight (2 mg/kg) may be required.

3. For treating eye conditions, a drop may be applied to the affected eye every 2 to 24 hours.

4. The duration of treatment depends on the treatment situation and the animal's response to the medication. Even if your pet seems to have recovered, always complete the entire course unless the veterinarian has given specific instructions.