What is atropine?

Atropine is drug derived from belladonna and other plants of the nightshade family.

It is most often used to prepare people who are about to be anaesthetised before undergoing surgery.

But it has also proven to be an effective antidote to several forms of nerve gas.

What effect does atropine have?

The drug contains a compound that affects the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system which controls activity in the body not under conscious control.

Atropine produces rapid heart rate, dilated pupils, dry skin, and anesthetizes the nerve endings in the skin.

It also relaxes smooth muscle in the gut and respiratory systems and suppresses gland and mucous secretions.

How is it used?

Atropine is given before general anaesthesia to keep the air passages clear.

It has been used to treat peptic ulcer by reducing the production of stomach acid.

It is also an ingredient in various preparations for symptomatic relief of colds and asthma.

And as a nerve gas antidote?

Atropine acts as an antidote in poisoning from nerve gases such as tabun, sarin, soman and VX.

Nerve gases work because they inactivate the enzyme cholinesterase, which normally controls the transmission of nerve impulses by breaking down a compound called acetylcholine.

Too much acetylcholine leads to uncontrolled nervous activity, causing breakdown of respiration and other body functions.

Atropine works by blocking one type of acetylcholine receptor so that the acetylcholine present in the nerve endings cannot work.

Are there side effects?

There is a risk that atropine can cause amnesia, confusion and over-excitation.

An overdose of the drug causes delirium, convulsions, and coma.