Neonatal Drug Therapy Manual

Atropine

Disclaimer: Official controlled document is the CHEO and Ottawa Hospital online copy. It is the responsibility of user to ensure that any paper copy version is the same as the online version before use.

Updated March 5, 2024 - 2:32pm

Classification: 
Anticholinergic
Original Date: 
June 1996
Revised Date: 
feb 2024
Indications: 
  • Prevention of sinus bradycardia
  • To inhibit salivation and secretions (sialorrhea)
Administration: 
  • IV direct, over 1 minute
  • IM
  • SC
  • ETT (for ETT administration: dilute dose with 1 - 2 mL of 0.9% NaCl)
  • Sublingual
Dosage: 
  • < 5 kg: 0.02 mg/kg/dose (0.2 mL/kg/dose)
    • there is no documented minimum dose for this age group
  • > 5 kg: 0.01 - 0.02 mg/kg/dose (0.1 - 0.2 mL/kg/dose)
    • Minimum dose: 0.1 mg
    • Maximum dose: 0.4 mg

 

  • Sialorrhea (use Atropine 1% ophthalmic drops): 1 - 2 drops sublingually q4-6h prn
Side Effects: 
  • Cardiac arrythmias
Parameters to Monitor: 
  • HR
Reconstitution and Stability: 

N/A

Compatibility: 

- Solutions Compatible: D5W, D10W, 0.9% NaCl, dextrose-saline combinations

- Additives Compatible: dobutamine, sodium bicarbonate, furosemide

- Y-site Compatible: heparin, KCl

References: 
  • Allen KA. Premedication for neonatal intubation: which medications are recommended and why. Adv Neonatal Care. 2012 Apr;12(2):107-11.
  • https://www.dir.iwk.nshealth.ca/NeonatalResuscitation , accessed Feb 2024
  • Intubation for neonates: Neonatal ehandbook - Department of Health and Human Services, Victoria, Australia. Accessed online Feb 2024
  • NHSGGC Paediatrics for Health Professionals. Accessed Feb 2024.

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