Why is atropine used for organophosphorus poisoning?
Atropine is generally used for organophosphorus poisoning because it is an M-receptor antagonist that blocks the effects of acetylcholine and helps alleviate discomfort symptoms caused by organophosphorus poisoning. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Organophosphorus poisoning usually refers to a series of toxic symptoms caused when organophosphorus pesticides enter the human body via routes such as the digestive tract or skin contact, including nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. Atropine is an M-receptor blocker and belongs to the class of anticholinergic drugs. It works by blocking acetylcholine and inhibiting excessive excitation of cholinergic nerves, thereby effectively relieving muscarinic-like symptoms. In addition to atropine, which should be used under medical guidance, other medications such as magnesium sulfate, racemic hyoscine tablets, and pralidoxime iodide injection may also be prescribed by a doctor for treatment.
If organophosphorus poisoning is suspected, prompt medical attention is essential to avoid missing the optimal treatment window. Additionally, patients should consume easily digestible and absorbable foods and avoid raw, cold, greasy, and spicy irritants such as cold beverages, garlic, and chili peppers.