Low-Dose Atropine
Prescription eye drops for suitable children, with the concentration and follow-up guided by your doctor.
What is low-dose atropine?
Atropine is an eye-drop medication. Low concentrations are used by some eye-care clinicians to help slow childhood myopia progression. In the United States, use for myopia control is off-label. Your doctor will explain this and discuss the available evidence.
Individual decisions, ongoing review
The appropriate concentration, schedule and duration depend on the child and the clinical plan. Research findings vary by concentration and population. A treatment response cannot be guaranteed, and regular follow-up is important.
What families should know
Possible side effects include light sensitivity, near blur, irritation and allergic reactions. Your doctor will explain what to watch for and when to contact the office. Use only the prescribed preparation and instructions, and store medication safely away from children.
Clear vision still matters
Atropine does not replace glasses or contact lenses needed to see clearly. Some children may be considered for a combined approach, based on clinical judgment and their response over time.
Learn about the myopia assessment, compare Ortho-K and daytime lenses, or request a consultation.
Further reading: AAPOS childhood myopia guidance.
What the LAMP study adds
Read the LAMP randomized trial: this study compared 0.05%, 0.025% and 0.01% atropine with placebo. Effects varied with concentration, and 0.05% showed the greatest effect among the tested concentrations over one year. Your doctor weighs potential benefit, light sensitivity, near-vision effects and the individual treatment plan.
Your myopia-control care team
Myopia-control care at Village Eyes Optometry in Westwood is provided by Dr. Bahareh Golbahar, Dr. Annie Hu-Duval and Dr. Lorin Vogel. Meet our myopia-control doctors and learn how we tailor care to your child.