Low-Dose Atropine Eyedrops No Better Than Placebo for Slowing Myopia Progression in Children: Vanderbilt Study Raises Doubts
A recent study conducted at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and other hospitals across the United States has shown that low-dose atropine eyedrops, commonly used to treat lazy eye, are no more effective than a placebo in slowing the progression of myopia (nearsightedness) in children. Published in JAMA Ophthalmology, this randomized controlled trial is the first of its kind to investigate an effective way to manage myopia.
The study, funded by the National Eye Institute (NEI), involved 187 participants, including 21 from Vanderbilt University Medical Center, aged between 5 and 12. These participants were treated with either a 0.01% atropine eyedrop or a placebo. Surprisingly, the study found no significant difference in the effectiveness of the two treatments.
Myopia is a condition that usually develops during childhood, typically between the ages of 7 and 16. It occurs when the eyes grow too long axially, resulting in the focal point of distant objects being in front of the retina instead of on it. This leads to poor distance vision, while near vision remains relatively unaffected. Myopia often requires the use of eyeglasses to correct distance vision and can potentially result in complications and irreversible vision loss later in life.
Lori Ann Kehler, OD, associate professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and chief of the Optometry Service at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, expressed surprise at the study’s findings. She stated, We found, interestingly, and honestly shockingly, that there was no difference in the use of 0.01% atropine and placebo in treating these children who ranged in age from 5 to 12. Kehler also noted that most insurance plans do not cover the prescription of atropine for myopia treatment.
The incidence of myopia is increasing worldwide, and it is estimated that by 2030, about 39 million individuals worldwide will be affected by the condition. Finding an effective treatment for myopia is crucial to prevent complications and vision loss. The earlier studies conducted in East Asia suggested that low-dose atropine could be a promising treatment option. However, the results from this recent study raise questions about the efficacy of atropine in managing myopia. Further research is needed to identify alternative treatment options for myopia and prevent its associated complications.
In summary, a study conducted at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and various medical institutions in the United States has revealed that low-dose atropine eyedrops offer no additional benefit compared to a placebo in slowing the progression of myopia in children. These findings contradict earlier studies conducted in East Asia and raise doubts about the effectiveness of atropine as a treatment for myopia. Further research is essential to explore alternative treatment options and provide better management strategies for myopia, addressing the growing worldwide incidence of the condition.
