.
Atropine is an alkaloid (a family of chemicals with pharmacologic activity and a common structure) that affects the nervous system. It is found in deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna) and other plants. Some effects of atropine include blurred vision, dilated pupils, constipation, dry mouth, and dry eyes.
Atropine is available as a prescription drug, synthesized in the laboratory. It is used to help restore or control heart function. It is used in combination with other drugs to treat other health problems including diarrhea and excessive salivation (saliva production). Atropine drops (Isopto® Atropine and others) are used to dilate pupils for eye exams.
Interactions with Herbs
Tannin-containing herbs
Tannins are a group of unrelated chemicals that give plants an astringent taste. Herbs
containing high amounts of tannins, such as green
tea (Camellia sinensis), black tea, uva
ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), black walnut (Juglans nigra),red raspberry (Rubus idaeus),oak (Quercus spp.), and
witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), may interfere with the absorption of
atropine taken by mouth.1
Summary of Interactions for Atropine
| Depletion or interference | None known |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | Tannin-containing herbs* such as green tea, black tea, uva ursi, black walnut, red raspberry, oak, and witch hazel |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Institute, 1997, 100.
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