EFFICACY OF LOW-DOSE ATROPINE IN STABILIZING CHILDHOOD MYOPIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF THE EVIDENCE

Abstract

Myopia has established itself as a major global public health challenge, with its rising prevalence significantly increasing the long-term risk of serious ocular complications. However, disparities persist in the literature regarding clinical efficacy and optimal dosing regimens; therefore, this study analyzed current clinical evidence on the efficacy of various low-dose atropine concentrations in controlling myopia progression in the pediatric population. A systematic literature search was conducted using the PubMed database and the CAPES Journal Portal, following PRISMA guidelines. Eight articles published between 2016 and 2026 were included. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool. 0.05% atropine yielded the most consistent results, significantly reducing the progression of axial elongation without a clinically relevant rebound effect. Other analyzed concentrations showed inferior therapeutic results or unfavorable long-term outcomes. The analyzed evidence indicates that topical atropine is effective in controlling childhood myopia by mitigating axial elongation, thereby improving quality of life and alleviating the condition.