Atropine is one of the useful methods that can slow down myopia progression.The effect of atropine has been proved by clinical researches, among which, various concentrations of atropine from 0.01% to 1% are all effective on control myopia progression for children, and atropine 0.01% has been verified to have the best balance between efficiency and side effects.Though many hypotheses and theories have been proposed to explain the mechanism of atropine, no community agreement has been reached among global scientists.Researches have shown that the possible receptors of atropine include M1-M5 acetylcholine families, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, dopamine receptors, ZENK gene and α 2-adrenergic receptors, which are located on retina and posterior sclera.The inhibitory effect of atropine on myopia progression might be achieved through cholinergic, G-protein and GABA signaling pathway.The target site of action of atropine is located on retinal pigment epithelium, choroid and scleral collagen.The effects of topical application of atropine combined with orthokeratology are better than wearing orthokeratology only.The mechanism, site of action and most relevant clinical researches of atropine of various concentrations were reviewed in this article.