Atropine toxicosis is caused by ingestion of plants containing atropine related compounds such as
Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) and Monkshood. Atropine toxicosis can also occur due to over administering atropine medication in horses.
Toxic components
All parts of jimsonweed are poisonous--caused by tropane alkaloids. The total alkaloid content in the plant can be as high as 0.7%. Most animals will avoid it but hungry horses with little else to eat are more at risk. Jimsonweed can also get baled up in hay and served to horses in dried form, which is still toxic if consumed.