NCIt definition : The sulfate salt of atropine, a naturally-occurring alkaloid isolated from the plant
Atropa belladonna. Atropine functions as a sympathetic, competitive antagonist of
muscarinic cholinergic receptors, thereby abolishing the effects of parasympathetic
stimulation. This agent may induce tachycardia, inhibit secretions, and relax smooth
muscles. (NCI04);
Alternative definition : NCI-GLOSS: A drug used to block nerve stimulation of muscles and glands and relax
smooth muscles. It is also used to increase heart rate, reduce secretions, and treat
the effects of certain poisons. It is a type of antimuscarinic agent and a type of
tropane alkaloid.;