Singapore has one of the highest prevalence rates of myopia in the world. It is important to detect them early and try to reduce the progression of myopia, as the earlier a child develops myopia, the higher the tendency of developing severe myopia and its complications later in life.

Atropine eyedrops have been used for years to control the progression of myopia. However, the earlier doses of 0.1% were higher and were associated with more complications such as difficulty with near reading and glare from the dilatation of the pupil . Children on these eyedrops required reading glasses as well as tinted glasses in order to overcome these side effects.

However in recent years, low dose atropine eyedrops of 0.01% have been researched and found to be effective in slowing myopia progression by 50-60% over a 2 year period, with minimal side effects. Children on these lower dose of atropine did not require tinted or reading glasses for work.
Each treatment course is for 2 years and the effect of atropine usually builds over time, having a better effect in the second year compared to the first.

These low dose atropine 0.01% eyedrops which are effective in controlling the progression of myopia, with minimal side effects are now available in our clinic as a once a day dosing. A comprehensive examination by our specialists is usually performed to assess if your child is suitable for atropine treatment. This is usually followed by 6 monthly checks for at least 2 years.