Atropine sulfate is a medication in a class of drugs known as anticholinergics. According to Drugs.com, atropine produces many effects in the body, including relief from spasms of the gastrointestinal tract (stomach and intestines), the bladder and the biliary tract, which is helpful in treating colitis, spastic bladder, diverticulitis, infant colic, renal and biliary colic, peptic ulcer and irritable bowel syndrome. There are some side effects of atropine that users should be aware of.
Headache and Light-headedness
Atropine sulfate may cause headache and light-headedness. Patients may experience dizziness while taking atropine. Patients must use caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how their body will react to atropine. Headache can be treated with the use of an over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen following consent from a physician. These side effects may lessen over time as the body adjusts to atropine.
Visual Changes
According to Drugs.com, blurred vision, large pupils or sensitivity of the eyes to bright light can occur while taking atropine sulfate. Caution should be used while driving or completing tasks which may be dangerous if experiencing visual changes from atropine. These symptoms should be brought to the attention of a health care provider for further instruction.
Constipation and Difficulty Urinating
Some patients may experience constipation and difficulty urinating while taking atropine. These side effects may be more common in the elderly. Certain dietary changes may help alleviate these side effects. Incorporating additional fruits, vegetables, fiber and fluids into a diet may help increase gastrointestinal transit time and decrease constipation. The use of an over-the-counter stool softener, such as Colace may be helpful in relieving constipation. Drinking fluids throughout the day may make it easier to urinate. A physician should be consulted if constipation or difficulty urinating become bothersome or severe.
Nasal Congestion
Users may experience nasal congestion while taking atropine sulfate. The use of a saline nasal wash or spray may help relieve nasal congestion. If nasal drainage becomes yellow or green in color and is accompanied by headache and sinus pressure, it may be a symptom of a sinus infection. A physician should be consulted for treatment, who may prescribe an antibiotic medication to treat the infection.
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