What is the typical route and dosage for Atropine Sulfate?

Atropine Sulfate is primarily administered via intravenous push (IVP) in emergency settings, particularly during situations like bradycardia or as part of advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) protocols. The typical dosage in these scenarios ranges from 0.5 to 1 mg administered intravenously. This method allows for rapid onset of action, which is essential in acute clinical situations where immediate intervention is necessary.

The IV route bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, leading to faster therapeutic levels in the bloodstream. This is critical for atropine as it acts quickly to block parasympathetic effects on the heart, thereby increasing heart rate when indicated. This usage aligns with ACLS guidelines and the pharmacological profile of atropine, which emphasizes its rapid effects in emergency care settings.

In contrast, other routes such as oral (PO), intramuscular (IM), or subcutaneous (SC) are not typically utilized for atropine in acute situations due to slower absorption rates and lag in action.