Indications
Mydriacyl, also known as tropicamide, is a prescription medication that is primarily used as a mydriatic agent meaning it is used to dilate the pupil of the eye for medical purposes such as eye examinations or diagnostic procedures. Tropicamide belongs to the class of anticholinergics. It works by relaxing certain eye muscles and thus causing the pupil to dilate.
Mydriacyl is available as a sterile topical ophthalmic solution in two strengths and is typically administered as eye drops. Mydriacyl is a prescription-only medication and should be used only under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Use and Dosage
To apply Mydriacyl eye drops wash your hands first. To avoid contamination do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. If you are wearing contact lenses remove them before using this medication. Ask your doctor when you can replace your contact lenses.
Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place 1 or 2 drops into the pouch usually 15 to 20 minutes before an eye examination or as directed by your doctor. Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose) and apply gentle pressure for 2 to 3 minutes. This will prevent the medication from draining out and being absorbed by your body. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed.
Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use.
If you are using another kind of eye medication (such as drops or ointments) wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye.
Wash your hands after using Mydriacyl. If giving this medication to a child do not let the medication get into the child's mouth. Also wash the child's hands after giving this medication.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Mydriacyl (Tropicamide):
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Sensitivity to light
- Stinging or burning in the eyes
Serious Side Effects of Mydriacyl (Tropicamide):
- Difficulty breathing
- Fast slow or uneven heart rate
- Hives
- Light-headedness
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling of the face lips tongue or throat
- Unusual changes in mood or behavior
Forms and Strength
Mydriacyl (Tropicamide) is available in the following forms and strength:
Mydriacyl: Opthalmic Solution
- 1%
- 0.5%
Cautions
- Mydriacyl may produce psychotic reactions and behavioral disturbances due to hypersensitivity to anticholinergic drugs.
- Tropicamide should be used with caution in patients with a history of angle-closure glaucoma.
- Use of Mydriacyl can cause temporary blurred vision and light sensitivity. You should not drive or operate heavy machinery until the effects of Mydriacyl wear off.
- You should remove contact lenses before using Mydriacyl as it can discolor or damage them.
- Tropicamide should not be used in patients with hypersensitivity to tropicamide or any other component of the formulation.
- Tropicamide should be used with caution in patients with Down syndrome cerebral palsy or brain damage as they may be more prone to central nervous system effects.
- Patients with glaucoma should be monitored closely during therapy with Tropicamide as it may increase intraocular pressure.
- Tropicamide should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease liver or kidney dysfunction and in elderly patients as they may be more susceptible to adverse effects.
- Tropicamide should not be used in patients with untreated narrow-angle glaucoma angle-closure glaucoma or with a known hypersensitivity to tropicamide or any component of the formulation.
- Tropicamide should not be used in children under the age of 3 years without medical supervision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Mydriacyl a controlled substance?
No Mydriacyl is not a controlled substance.
How long does the dilation effect of Mydriacyl last?
The dilation effect of Mydriacyl typically lasts for 4-6 hours.
Can Mydriacyl be used for other eye conditions besides dilation?
Mydriacyl is not typically used for other eye conditions besides dilation.
How quickly does Mydriacyl work?
Mydriacyl typically starts working within 15-30 minutes of being applied as eye drops.
Does Mydriacyl require a prescription?
Yes, Mydriacyl requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Resources
- https://www.rxlist.com/tropicamide/generic-drug.htm
- https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/cmi/m/mydriacyl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9342/mydriacyl-ophthalmic-eye/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/mydriacyl.html
- https://www.goodrx.com/mydriacyl/what-is
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=0d4f4a2e-eb00-4c65-b3fa-baf5738d468d
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