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, synthesised 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 diarrhoea and excessive
salivation (saliva production). Atropine drops (Isopto® Atropine and others) are used to
dilate pupils for eye exams.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
Avoid:Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability—Avoid
these supplements when taking this medication since the supplement may decrease the absorption
and/or activity of the medication in the body.
Tannin-containing herbs* such as green tea, black tea, uva ursi,
black walnut, red raspberry, oak, and witch hazel
Depletion or interference
None known
Side effect reduction/prevention
None known
Supportive interaction
None known
Adverse interaction
None known
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
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
References
1. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions.
Sandy, OR: Eclectic Institute, 1997, 100.