Atropine sulfate is medicine that is used to decrease pain or spasms in the eyes after cataract surgery, eye injury, and is also used to dilate the pupil when the interior of the eye is inflamed. According to PetPlace.com, atropine sulfate's job is to paralyze the sphincter muscles of the iris, which helps dilate the eye. It is available as eye drops or as ointments.
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Signs and Symptoms
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Keep your dog away from bright light when it is given atropine sulfate. According to Medi-vet.com, your dog's eyes will be sensitive to bright light when treated with atropine sulfate, so be sure to keep your dog away from bright light while it is receiving the medicine. If your veterinarian provided a special eye shield or sunglasses for your dog, use them. If the medication gets into the dog's mouth via tears, it will increase salivation.
Toxicity
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Too much atropine sulfate can cause a change in heart rate and rhythm. If your dog is given too much atropine sulfate, it can cause dry mouth, vomiting and constipation, along with a change in heart rate and rhythm. It also can decrease your dog's ability to urinate. It may even change your dog's regulation of temperature, according to Medi-vet.com.
Avoiding Toxicity
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To avoid giving too much atropine sulfate, make sure you follow your veterinarian's instructions for the medication. Do not double the dose if you forget to give the medicine at the right time; instead, give it as soon as you remember, or if it's already within a few hours of the next dose, just give it then. If you have trouble giving the medication, talk to your veterinarian so she can give you alternative ways to administrating the medicine
Warnings
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Let your vet know what foods your dog is eating. Medi-vet.com states that If you are giving your dog other medications, be sure to let your veterinarian know, because some medications interact with atropine sulfate. Be sure to also let your veterinarian know what foods you are giving your dog, because some foods can also have an interaction with atropine sulfate.
Because atropine sulfate has a long duration, do not administer more than what is prescribed. It cannot be stressed enough that you must follow your vet's orders for administering atropine sulfate.
Be sure to wash your hands before and after giving the medication to avoid causing infection and from accidentally getting the medication into your own eyes.
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