Effect of topical 0.01% atropine on myopia progression in Turkish children according to age and sex

Purpose To assess the effect of 0.01% atropine on myopia progression, considering age and sex differences. Methods In this prospective study, 51 participants were enrolled in the atropine group and 48 in the control group. One in the atropine group discontinued due to allergic conjunctivitis, leaving 50 for analysis. Participants were aged 6–16 years, with a mean age of 11.1 ± 2.6 years (atropine) and 10.9 ± 2.3 years (control), and had myopia between −2.00 and −6.00 D. Subjects were categorized by age (6–9, 10–12, 13–16 years) and sex. Spherical equivalent (SE), axial length (AL, via biometry), simulated keratometry (SimK) (via topography), and pupil diameter (via topography) were measured at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Results Baseline characteristics did not differ significantly between groups ( p > .05). SE progression at 12 months was significantly lower in the atropine group (−0.16 ± 0.35 D) than in controls (−0.31 ± 0.35 D; p = .041). AL increase was significant at 6 months in the atropine group (0.1 ± 0.23 mm, p = .003) and at 12 months in both groups (atropine: 0.26 ± 0.33 mm, p < .001; control: 0.37 ± 0.7 mm, p = .001). Pupil diameter and SimK changes were more pronounced in the atropine group ( p < .05). Conclusion Topical 0.01% atropine slows myopia progression, especially in older children. Higher doses may be more effective for younger children and females.