Patient Orientation Edrophonium is used to assist muscles recover from surgery. Atropine does not have the same negative effects as edrophonium, such as a sluggish pulse. Therefore, it is given before edrophonium to protect against cholinergic symptoms. Muscle Relaxants Edrophonium is used to help relax muscles that are too tight. Atropine is used to reduce excessive sweating and tears in eyes caused by edrophonium. Atropine is also used to treat eye problems such as blurred vision, dry mouth, increased heart rate, and shortness of breath.