What adverse effect may occur if Atropine is administered too slowly or at too low a dosage?

When Atropine is administered too slowly or at a low dosage, paradoxical bradycardia can occur. This phenomenon happens because Atropine works by blocking the effects of the vagus nerve on the heart, which normally slows the heart rate. If the drug is not given in an adequate dose or at an appropriate speed, the body may counteract the intended effects, leading to an increased vagal tone and subsequently causing a slowing of the heart rate instead of the expected increase.

The administration rate and dosage are crucial for the effectiveness of Atropine, especially in acute situations such as severe bradycardia. Thus, monitoring the patient after administration is vital, as inadequate dosing could lead to the opposite outcome of what is sought – resulting in paradoxical bradycardia rather than relieving the bradycardia condition.