Low-dose atropine therapy involves the off-label use of atropine, a dilating drop, used once nightly to slow the progression of myopia. Low-dose atropine is diluted, typically to concentrations of 0.01%, 0.02% or 0.05%, to minimize pupil dilation while using the drop. The concentration prescribed will be determined by your doctor. The medication is dosed nightly before bedtime, one drop in each eye. The goal of this medication is to slow the progression of myopia, so close monitoring is required to determine the effectiveness of the medication. We now have the ability to measure axial length at 6 month intervals. This new technology allows us to accurately track the changes in length of the eye and will be measured twice per year during myopia management treatment.
PROFESSIONAL FEES
Low-dose atropine therapy is not covered by vision or medical insurance. For the first year of treatment, a fee of $600 will be assessed to cover atropine treatment related visits. The fee for treatment subsequent years is $500. The cost of the medication will be determined by the pharmacy.
PATIENT RESPONSIBILITIES
- Attend all scheduled appointments.
- Use the medication only as prescribed by your doctor.
- Comply with the prescribed drop schedule.
- Report all treatment related emergencies immediately.
INFORMED CONSENT
- I understand that this treatment is designed to slow the progression of myopia. There is no guarantee that my prescription will not progress during or after the low-dose atropine treatment.
- I understand the potential side effect of low-dose atropine is pupil dilation. Symptoms of pupil dilation include increased sensitivity to light, diminished ability to focus at near, and headache.
- I understand that the therapeutic effect of low-dose atropine decreases if the drop is not used every night.
- I understand and agree to seek immediate care by calling (614) 898-9989 during regular hours or following the prompts to contact the on-call doctor after hours, should I experience eye pain, excessive redness, light sensitivity, excessive tearing or discharge, or a sudden loss of vision.
You have signed an agreement acknowledging that you have read and understand the above and are in complete agreement with the contents of this agreement. As such, you hereby agree to the terms of this agreement and agree to perform their responsibilities to achieve optimum success in the low-dose atropine treatment.