**Core Concept**
Atropine is a non-selective muscarinic receptor antagonist used to treat bradycardia, reduce salivation, and increase bronchial secretions. It has a broad range of applications in clinical settings, including anesthesia and cardiology.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Atropine works by competing with acetylcholine (ACh) for binding sites on muscarinic receptors in the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). This action leads to a decrease in the parasympathetic tone, resulting in increased heart rate, reduced salivation, and decreased gastric secretions. The therapeutic effects of atropine are primarily mediated through its blockade of M1 and M3 receptors, which are involved in the regulation of smooth muscle contraction and glandular secretions.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Atropine does indeed have a central nervous system (CNS) effect, which can manifest as sedation, confusion, or even delirium, particularly in high doses.
**Option B:** Atropine can cause tachycardia, not bradycardia, as a result of its blockade of parasympathetic tone on the sinoatrial (SA) node.
**Option C:** Atropine does increase heart rate, but it can also increase intraocular pressure (IOP) due to its unopposed alpha-adrenergic receptor stimulation.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Atropine is a classic example of a drug that can cause paradoxical bradycardia in patients with vagal nerve stimulation-induced bradycardia, such as those with sick sinus syndrome or in patients undergoing vagal nerve stimulation therapy.

**Correct Answer:** B.