Atropine for Eye Conditions

(APPRAISE Trial)

This trial tests whether atropine eyedrops aid recovery after certain eye surgeries, specifically vitrectomy surgery, which removes the gel inside the eye. Participants will either use the atropine drops or not (control group) to determine if the drops affect healing. This study targets individuals about to undergo vitrectomy surgery who can consent to participate. However, those using certain anti-inflammatory eyedrops or with an allergy to atropine cannot join. The goal is to determine if atropine can improve post-surgery outcomes. As a Phase 4 trial, this research focuses on understanding how this already FDA-approved and effective treatment can benefit more patients.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop your current medications, but you cannot participate if your post-surgery eyedrop regimen includes certain anti-inflammatory medications.

Studies have shown that atropine eye drops are generally safe. Approved for children as young as three months, they assist with eye exams or certain eye conditions. However, like most medications, they can cause side effects, such as eye irritation, larger pupils, and, in rare cases, allergic reactions. Some individuals might also experience a fast heartbeat or dry skin.

Researchers are excited about atropine eye drops for eye conditions because they offer a potentially new approach to slowing the progression of myopia (nearsightedness). Unlike standard treatments like corrective lenses or laser surgery, atropine works by acting on the muscarinic receptors in the eye, which helps to slow down the elongation of the eyeball—a key factor in worsening myopia. This unique mechanism of action could provide a non-invasive alternative to traditional methods, offering hope for more effective management of myopia progression. Additionally, atropine eye drops are easy to use, making them a convenient option for ongoing treatment, especially in children and adolescents.

Research has shown that atropine eye drops effectively treat eye conditions, particularly in controlling nearsightedness (myopia). Studies indicate that low doses, such as 0.05%, can significantly slow the progression of myopia. For example, one study found that children using 0.05% atropine experienced less eye growth over a year compared to those using a lower dose. Another study discovered that using 0.05% atropine drops nightly delayed the onset of myopia in young children. In this trial, participants in the experimental arm will use atropine eye drops, while those in the control arm will not receive atropine. These findings suggest that atropine can effectively manage certain eye conditions and may also benefit patients after eye surgeries.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰