Understanding low-dose atropine

One tiny drop at bedtime.

Low-dose atropine (0.01%–0.05%) is a simple nightly eye drop that meaningfully slows myopia progression in kids. One drop, each eye, before bed — and you're done for the day.

What's happening

A very old drug at a brand-new dose.

Atropine dilates the pupil — at strong doses. At the dilute concentrations we use for myopia control (0.01–0.05%), it has almost no dilation or near-focus effect but still meaningfully slows eye elongation.

Multi-year studies show 30–70% reduction in myopia progression. Few side effects at these low doses. No contact lenses to manage. Great option for kids who aren't ready for contacts.

What helps

Here's the plan —
and why it works.

Nightly

One drop, each eye

Before bed. Takes 3 seconds. Preferably while lying down for easier application.

Consistency

Same time daily

Helps with remembering. Parents typically administer for younger kids.

Monitor

6-month check-ins

Progression tracking. Dose adjustments if needed.

Duration

Until eye stable

Usually ages 16–18. Taper down rather than stop abruptly.

Common questions

Honest answers to common questions.

Which concentration is best?+

Recent research suggests 0.05% gives the best balance of effect and tolerability. 0.01% is milder but may be less effective. We start at a middle dose and adjust based on progression and side effects.

Will my child's pupils look weird?+

At these low doses, usually no visible dilation. A small percentage notice mild light sensitivity; rare kids have slight reading blur. Both typically resolve or can be managed.

Is it safe long-term?+

Atropine has been used in eye care for over 100 years — we know it well. At these microscopic doses, long-term safety data is reassuring. Regular check-ins track any concerns.

What if we miss a night?+

One missed night isn't a problem. Several missed nights may reduce effectiveness. If you're consistently missing, let us know — we can discuss alternatives.

Can we combine with other treatments?+

Atropine plus Ortho-K or MiSight may give additive benefit and is sometimes used for rapid progressors. We'll discuss if that's right for your child.

One tiny drop at bedtime.

A very old drug at a brand-new dose.

Here's the plan —
and why it works.

One drop, each eye

Same time daily

6-month check-ins

Until eye stable

Come in if

Honest answers to common questions.

We're here when you need us.

One tiny drop at bedtime.

A very old drug at a brand-new dose.

Here's the plan —and why it works.

One drop, each eye

Same time daily

6-month check-ins

Until eye stable

Come in if

Honest answers to common questions.

We're here when you need us.

Here's the plan —
and why it works.