Atropine (0.05%) for rapid progressive childhood myopia (ARM study)

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Ophthalmology
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a growing global health concern, particularly in children.
• Rapid myopia progression in childhood can increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life.
• Effective myopia control strategies are crucial for preserving long-term visual health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of low-dose atropine 0.05% in controlling rapid myopia progression in children.
• To assess changes in refractive error and axial length over a one-year treatment period.
• To document any adverse effects associated with atropine 0.05% use.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, single-arm clinical trial was conducted involving children aged 6-12 years with myopia progression exceeding 0.75D per year.
• Participants received atropine 0.05% eye drops nightly for one year.
• Primary outcomes included changes in the rate of myopia progression (diopters/year), spherical equivalent refractive error (SER), and axial length (AL).

Main Results:

• Treatment with atropine 0.05% resulted in a significant 62% reduction in the rate of myopia progression (P < 0.001).
• The mean progression rate decreased from -1.05 D/year at baseline to -0.4 D/year after one year.
• No significant adverse effects were reported, and treatment response was independent of baseline characteristics.

Conclusions:

• Atropine 0.05% is a safe and effective treatment for managing rapidly progressing myopia in children.
• This low-dose atropine therapy offers a promising option for myopia control with a favorable side effect profile.
• Further research may explore long-term outcomes and optimal dosing strategies.