Atropine 0.5% eyedrops for the treatment of children with low myopia: A randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric eye care
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Myopia is a growing concern in pediatric populations.
• Low myopia (LM) requires effective and safe management strategies.
• Atropine eyedrops are being investigated for myopia control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of atropine 0.5% eyedrops (ATE) in managing low myopia (LM) in children.
• To assess the safety profile of ATE for pediatric myopia control.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 126 children with LM.
• Participants were divided into two groups: 0.5% ATE and placebo.
• Outcomes measured included changes in spherical equivalent (SE) and axial length (AL), and adverse events (AEs).

Main Results:

• 0.5% ATE significantly reduced myopia progression compared to placebo.
• ATE demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in both SE and AL increases (P < .01).
• No serious adverse events were reported in either the ATE or placebo groups.

Conclusions:

• Atropine 0.5% eyedrops are an efficacious treatment for controlling myopia in children with low myopia.
• The safety profile of ATE supports its use in pediatric myopia management.
• ATE offers a promising therapeutic option for slowing myopia progression in young patients.