Does 0.01% Atropine Sulfate Eye Drops (EIKANCE) need to be refrigerated?

0.01% Atropine Sulfate Eye Drops (EIKANCE), as a class of drugs widely used in the field of ophthalmology in recent years, is mainly used to control the progression of myopia in children and adolescents. Since its active ingredient is atropine sulfate hydrochloride, the solution form is highly sensitive to temperature and light, so the storage method has become a matter of great concern to parents and patients. Many people mistakenly believe that this eye drop needs to be refrigerated like some antibiotic eye drops, but it does not. According to the instructions and foreign drug information, EIKANCE can be stored at a temperature below 25°C. It should be protected from moisture and light, and especially should not be frozen or refrigerated in the refrigerator. Because the low temperature environment may cause the components of the medicinal solution to crystallize or precipitate, and may even affect the stability of the medicinal efficacy, thus reducing the effectiveness of treating myopia.

In actual storage, just place the medicine bottles in a cool and dry place, such as a bedroom drawer or a special box for medicines. If you are in a hot area and the room temperature exceeds30°C for a long time, you need to consider additional measures, such as using a special light-proof medicine box or placing the medicine in an air-conditioned indoor environment instead of directly putting it in the refrigerator. It is important to note that once the liquid medicine freezes, its structure may be irreversibly changed, making it impossible to continue to use it. In contrast, maintaining it at room temperature can better ensure the stability of the drug.

It is worth noting thatEIKANCE solution is also relatively sensitive to light. Strong light exposure will accelerate the degradation of the drug, so direct sunlight should be avoided during storage. During use, patients should pay attention to keeping the bottle mouth clean after opening the bottle cap to prevent contamination. Usually a bottle of medicinal solution needs to be used up within one month after opening to ensure efficacy and safety. For long-term use by children, parents should establish good habits of medication use and storage, which not only helps to maintain the activity of the medication, but also reduces the risk of eye infection.

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