What are the reasons for discontinuing Atropine Sulfate Eye Drops 0.01% (EIKANCE)?

0.01% Atropine Sulfate Eye Drops (EIKANCE) is widely used in children to control myopia, but in clinical practice, there are still reasons why it needs to be discontinued under certain circumstances. First, as children age, especially in adolescence, the need for continued long-term use of low-concentration atropine may decrease if the rate of myopia progression is significantly slowed. Doctors usually evaluate whether to continue medication based on axial growth, refractive changes, and vision stability. If the growth of myopia in children stabilizes, discontinuing medication may become a reasonable choice.

Secondly, individual differences are also an important factor in drug discontinuation. Some children may develop symptoms such as mild pupil dilation, accommodation discomfort, or photophobia during long-term use of atropine. Although the side effects of 0.01% concentration are relatively low, long-term accumulation still requires attention. Once these symptoms affect daily life or study, the doctor may recommend adjusting the use regimen or temporarily stopping the medication to observe the eye's adaptation.

In addition, family and life factors may also influence the decision to discontinue medication. For example, children's increased outdoor activities, adequate lighting, and reduced use of eyes at close range will help naturally control the progression of myopia. At this time, doctors may believe that the marginal benefit of continuing long-term medication is limited and choose to discontinue the medication or extend the interval between use. There is also a situation where clinical research or follow-up strategies require a short-term discontinuation of medication to observe the development of myopia after discontinuation of medication to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the drug.

It is worth noting that discontinuation of atropine eye drops does not mean the end of myopia intervention, but a dynamic adjustment of treatment strategies. The doctor will develop a personalized management plan based on the child's axial changes, refraction and eye use behavior, including whether to re-initiate atropine or combine it with outdoor activities, eye use time management and other measures. In any case, discontinuation of medication should be done under the guidance of a doctor to avoid rapid rebound of myopia or eye discomfort caused by improper medication.

Reference materials:https://www.eikance.com.au/