Central anti-cholinergic syndrome induced by single therapeutic dose of atropine

Curr Drug Saf. 2012 Feb;7(1):35-6. doi: 10.2174/157488612800492799.

Abstract

A 55 years old male patient, who is planned for bronchoscopy developed central anti-cholinergic syndrome due to therapeutic dose of atropine. Withdrawal of atropine has improved the symptoms. Thereafter, instillation of atropine as eye drops leads to reappearance of symptoms. The reaction was definite according to Naranjo's algorithm. It was severe and definitely preventable according to Modified Hartwig and Siegel's scale and Modified Schumock and Thornton scale respectively. Central anti-cholinergic syndrome may be due to variation in the genetic susceptibility (Idiosyncrasy) to atropine. Idiosyncratic reaction on administration of atropine as a pre-anesthetic medication or eye drops should be kept in mind while prescribing.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Atropine / administration & dosage
  • Atropine / adverse effects*
  • Bronchoscopy / methods*
  • Cholinergic Antagonists / administration & dosage
  • Cholinergic Antagonists / adverse effects*
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscarinic Antagonists / administration & dosage
  • Muscarinic Antagonists / adverse effects*
  • Syndrome

Substances

  • Cholinergic Antagonists
  • Muscarinic Antagonists
  • Atropine