USO DE ATROPINA COMO ESTRATÉGIA TERAPÊUTICA REGRESSIVA NA MIOPIA INFANTO-JUVENIL

Atropine eye drops, aimed at reducing myopia progression as a dose-dependent treatment strategy, demonstrate potential efficacy in mitigating the disorder. The use of these eye drops is advantageous, as it represents a non-invasive, painless, and cost-effective treatment. Objectives: To present scientific evidence indicating the effectiveness of atropine as a therapeutic strategy for treating myopia in children and adolescents. Materials and Methods: For this study, exploratory and descriptive research was selected, as it enables the development of a comprehensive literature review based on a wide range of discussion materials, such as scientific articles. The bibliographic research was conducted extensively using multiple electronic databases, including the Virtual Health Library (VHL), which encompasses LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature), Google Scholar, SCIELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online), and PubMed. Scientific studies published in Portuguese and English and sourced from reliable databases were considered for inclusion in this study. Results: Based on the collected data, it was identified that atropine, especially in low concentrations such as 0.025%, effectively reduces myopia progression in children. Its mechanism of action involves muscarinic receptors in the retina and sclera, although it is not yet fully understood. Early intervention is essential to prevent severe complications in adulthood. Final Considerations: It is concluded that lower doses of atropine are effective in reducing the progression of myopia in children. However, further studies are necessary to fully elucidate its mechanisms of action.