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Atropine/edrophonium (Injection)

Introduction:

Atropine (AT-roe-peen), Edrophonium (e-droe-FOE-nee-um)

Reverses the effects of other medicines used to relax your muscles during surgery.

Brand Name(s):

Enlon-Plus

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to atropine or edrophonium. You should not receive this medicine if you have a stomach disorder called pyloric stenosis. You should not receive this medicine if you have glaucoma or eye problems that could lead to glaucoma. You should not receive this medicine if you have a blockage that causes problems with your bowels or urination.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
  • A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using digoxin (Lanoxin®), or beta-blockers (atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol, Inderal®, Lopressor®, Toprol®).
  • Dry mouth that is caused by this medicine can be made worse if you are also using other medicines that cause dry mouth. These would include medicines to treat depression, Parkinson's disease, motion sickness, cold or allergy symptoms, or stomach problems.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Tell your doctor if you have asthma or other breathing problems, heart disease, liver disease, heart rhythm problems, prostate problems, or myasthenia gravis.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have had an allergic reaction to sulfite, or if you have any other allergies.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Confusion, fast heartbeat.
  • Fever, hot dry skin without sweating.
  • Lightheadedness or fainting.
  • Muscle weakness, muscle spasms.
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased saliva.
  • Problems with speech, walking, or swallowing.
  • Slow heartbeat, shallow breathing.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Blurred vision.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Feeling cold or hot.
  • Increase in how much or how often you urinate.
  • Increased sweating, watery eyes.
  • Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed.
  • Reviewed last on: 1/4/2010
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