Atropine / Edrophonium
Atropine/Edrophonium is a combination medication used primarily for the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis. Edrophonium temporarily increases acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, while atropine counteracts muscarinic side effects. This combination helps differentiate myasthenic crisis from cholinergic crisis in patients with known myasthenia gravis.
Diagnostic combination used to evaluate myasthenia gravis by temporarily improving muscle weakness while managing side effects.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 214262
- Generic
- Atropine / Edrophonium
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Diagnosis of myasthenia gravis (Tensilon test), differentiation between myasthenic crisis and cholinergic crisis in patients with known myasthenia gravis, and evaluation of treatment efficacy.
Edrophonium reversibly inhibits acetylcholinesterase, increasing acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction to temporarily improve muscle strength in myasthenic patients. Atropine, an anticholinergic, blocks muscarinic receptors to prevent bradycardia, excessive salivation, and other parasympathetic effects.
Must be administered intravenously by healthcare professionals with resuscitation equipment available. Contraindicated in patients with GI or urinary obstruction, glaucoma, or cardiac arrhythmias. Response is transient (5-15 minutes), and false-positive/negative results can occur. Bradycardia may occur during administration requiring monitoring.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy