Consensus statement and guidelines for use of dilute atropine sulphate in myopia control

PURPOSE: To develop a consensus statement for use of dilute atropine in control of myopia progression in children based on review of existing literature, opinions and suggestions of the members of the Group of Paediatric Ophthalmologist and Strabismologists, Mumbai (GPOS). METHODS: Literature review, group discussions, questionnaire study and consensus building by supermajority voting. RESULTS: About 65% of paediatric ophthalmologists in Mumbai have started prescribing atropine sulphate 0.01% as routine in their patients showing myopia progression. Majority of the respondents who have used it for >1 year in their patient population are extremely happy with the results. About 47% respondents expressed concerns regarding some yet unknown side effects of long-term use in our patient population. Majority of the respondents agree that it is safe and have rarely encountered side effects with its use. CONCLUSION: Atropine sulphate 0.01% is a safe and effective treatment for myopia control. Most trained paediatric ophthalmologists recommend its use in children with progressive simple myopia.