Testing Atropine’s Posterior Effects

Low-dose atropine shows limited short-term posterior structural effects in young adults

June 12, 2026
3 min

The Ophthalmologist

Overview

A randomized study found that low-concentration atropine does not significantly alter axial length, retinal thickness, or choroidal thickness in young adults. A transient reduction in superficial retinal perfusion was observed one hour post-dosing.

Background

Low-dose atropine is commonly used in myopia management, particularly in children. This study aims to clarify the short-term impacts of atropine on retinal and choroidal parameters.

Data Highlights

No significant changes were observed in axial length, retinal thickness, or choroidal thickness after atropine instillation. A transient reduction in superficial vascular complex perfusion density was noted at one hour post-dosing.

Key Findings

Atropine did not significantly alter axial length, retinal thickness, or choroidal thickness at one hour or 24 hours.
A transient reduction in superficial vascular complex perfusion density was observed one hour after dosing.
No concentration-dependent effects on structural parameters were detected.
Previous studies reported inconsistent acute choroidal responses to atropine.
The study included a small cohort of 20 young adults.

Clinical Implications

Single-dose low-concentration atropine has minimal acute effects on posterior segment structure in young adults.

Conclusion

This study highlights the need for further investigation into the long-term effects of atropine, particularly in pediatric populations, to better understand its role in myopia control.