What is the recommended dose of Atropine for bradycardia with a pulse?

Atropine is a medication commonly used for the treatment of bradycardia, particularly in emergency situations. The recommended dose of atropine for bradycardia with a pulse is 1 mg administered every 3-5 minutes as needed, up to a total of 3 mg. This dosing protocol is established to balance efficacy and safety, allowing for an increase in heart rate while minimizing potential side effects.

Atropine works by inhibiting the action of acetylcholine at parasympathetic sites in smooth muscle, secretory glands, and the central nervous system, leading to an increase in heart rate. The guideline of 1 mg every 3-5 minutes is based on clinical practice and research indicating that this dose effectively counters the symptoms of bradycardia without causing excessive tachycardia or complications related to overdose.

The total maximum cumulative dose of 3 mg helps set a limit to avoid potential adverse effects such as anticholinergic toxicity, which can occur with higher doses. Therefore, the dosing strategy reflects careful consideration of therapeutic effects and the patient's safety when managing bradycardia.