Tropicamide

How to take it

For refraction, instill one or two drops of 1% solution in the eye(s), repeated in five minutes. If patient is not seen within 20 to 30 minutes, an additional drop may be instilled to prolong mydriatic effect. For examination of fundus, instill one or two drops of 0.5% solution 15 or 20 minutes prior to examination. Individuals with heavily pigmented irides may require higher strength or more doses. Mydriasis will reverse spontaneously with time, typically in 4 to 8 hours. However, in some cases, complete recovery may take up to 24 hours.

Side effects, and when to stop

Ocular: Transient stinging, blurred vision, photophobia and superficial punctuate keratitis have been reported with the use of tropicamide. Increased intraocular pressure has been reported following the use of mydriatics.

Non-Ocular: Dryness of the mouth, tachycardia, headache, allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting, pallor, central nervous system disturbances and muscle rigidity have been reported with the use of tropicamide. Psychotic reactions, behavioral disturbances, and vasomotor or cardiorespiratory collapse in children have been reported with the use of anticholinergic drugs.

Who should not take it

Contraindicated in persons showing hypersensitivity to any component of this preparation.

Warnings

FOR TOPICAL OPHTHALMIC USE ONLY. NOT FOR INJECTION.

This preparation may cause CNS disturbances which may be dangerous in pediatric patients. The possibility of psychotic reactions and behavioral disturbances due to hypersensitivity to anticholinergic drugs should be considered.

Mydriatics may produce a transient elevation of intraocular pressure.

Remove contact lenses before using.

Other medicines and interactions

Tropicamide may interfere with the antihypertensive action of carbachol, pilocarpine, or ophthalmic cholinesterase inhibitors.

General

The lacrimal sac should be compressed by digital pressure for two to three minutes after instillation to reduce excessive systemic absorption.