Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops for Myopia Control

What Are Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops?

Low-dose atropine eye drops are a clinically proven, prescription treatment used to slow the progression of myopia (nearsightedness) in children. Unlike glasses or contact lenses, which correct blurry vision, atropine targets the underlying cause of myopia, eye elongation, to reduce the rate at which your child’s prescription increases.

This gentle, non-invasive therapy is part of a comprehensive myopia management plan and can be used alone or alongside other treatments like Ortho-K, MiSight®, or Stellest™ lenses.

How Low-Dose Atropine Works

Atropine eye drops relax the focusing muscles in the eye and influence growth signals in the retina. Low concentrations (typically 0.01%–0.05%) have been shown to:

• Slow axial elongation, the primary cause of worsening myopia
• Reduce yearly prescription increases
• Preserve long-term eye health

With minimal side effects, low-dose atropine allows children to continue wearing their usual glasses or contacts while receiving myopia control benefits.

Who Can Benefit from Atropine Eye Drops?

Low-dose atropine is recommended for:

• Children with progressing myopia
• Kids too young or unwilling to wear Ortho-K or contact lenses
• Families seeking a non-invasive, evidence-based myopia control option
• Children with moderate to high risk of rapid prescription increases

Our doctors evaluate each child individually to determine if atropine is appropriate and to prescribe the safest, most effective concentration.

Benefits of Low-Dose Atropine

• Clinically proven to slow myopia progression
• Minimal side effects with low concentrations
• Can be combined with glasses, Ortho-K, or contact lens therapy
• Simple nightly routine
• Non-surgical, reversible, and safe

What to Expect at a Low-Dose Atropine Visit

1. Comprehensive pediatric eye exam
2. Review of prescription history and myopia progression
3. Discussion of the safest, most effective atropine concentration
4. Instructions for proper administration and safety
5. Follow-up visits to monitor effectiveness and adjust treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

Is low-dose atropine safe for children?
Yes. At low concentrations, atropine is well-tolerated and has minimal side effects, such as slight light sensitivity or mild pupil dilation.

How long does treatment last?
Most children use low-dose atropine for several years while their eyes are actively growing, with ongoing monitoring and adjustments.

Will my child still need glasses or contacts?
Yes. Atropine controls myopia progression but does not replace vision correction.

Can it be combined with other myopia control options?
Absolutely. Atropine can be part of a multi-modal myopia management plan for enhanced results.

Why Choose TSO Mansfield for Atropine Therapy?

Our doctors specialize in pediatric myopia management and create personalized treatment plans based on your child’s prescription, eye health, and lifestyle. We carefully monitor progress and adjust therapy as needed to ensure optimal outcomes.

With regular follow-ups, we can track your child’s eye growth and prescription changes, helping to reduce the risk of high myopia and long-term eye complications.
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If you’re considering low-dose atropine eye drops in Mansfield, TX, our experienced doctors can help determine if it’s the right option for your child.