Atropine action on eye

Atropine blocks all cholinergic activity on the eye, resulting in persistent mydriasis, unresponsiveness to light, and cycloplegia (inability to focus for near vision). In patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, intraocular pressure may rise dangerously. Shorter-acting agents, such as the antimuscarinic tropicamide, or an α -adrenergic drug, such as phenylephrine, are generally favored for producing mydriasis in ophthalmic examinations.