How long do the general effects of atropine last?

The duration of effects of atropine typically ranges around 4 hours. Atropine is an anticholinergic agent that works by blocking the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, leading to a variety of physiological effects such as increased heart rate, decreased salivary secretions, and bronchodilation.

The half-life of atropine is generally about 2 to 4 hours, which aligns with the understanding that the significant pharmacological effects are most pronounced within this time frame. After approximately 4 hours, the effects begin to diminish as the drug is metabolized and eliminated from the body.

The other durations mentioned are either too short or too long for the typical effects of atropine, making 4 hours the most accurate answer based on pharmacological principles.