Dilate Eye Drop

Indications

Dilate Sterile Eye Drops are specifically designed to enlarge the pupil, allowing healthcare professionals to thoroughly examine the interior structures of the eye. These drops are commonly used prior to eye examinations, including cycloplegic refraction and fundoscopy, and are also indicated before and after ocular surgeries.
Note: Use this medication strictly as directed by a licensed healthcare provider.

Pharmacology

The active ingredient, Tropicamide, shares structural similarities with atropine and effectively induces mydriasis (pupil dilation) and cycloplegia (paralysis of the ciliary muscle) by inhibiting the parasympathetic nervous system. As a parasympatholytic agent, Tropicamide competes with acetylcholine, the primary neurotransmitter in the parasympathetic system, at the receptor sites, leading to mydriasis due to the unopposed activity of the dilator pupillae muscle and cycloplegia.

Tropicamide begins to dilate the pupil within approximately 5 minutes, achieving its maximum effect within 20-25 minutes. The pupil generally returns to its normal size within about 6 hours. Since the effects diminish approximately 45-60 minutes after the last drop is instilled, the optimal timing for retinoscopy is roughly 20 minutes post-instillation.

Dosage & Administration

• For Refraction: Instill 1 or 2 drops in the affected eye(s) and may repeat after 5 minutes. If the patient is not assessed within 20 to 30 minutes, an additional drop may be instilled to extend the mydriatic effect.
• For Fundus Examination: Administer 1 drop 15 to 20 minutes before the examination.
  Note: Medication should only be taken as prescribed by a registered healthcare professional.

Interaction

Tropicamide’s effects may be enhanced by the concurrent use of atropine-like substances, tricyclic antidepressants, various H1 antihistamines, anticholinergic agents, anti-Parkinson medications, phenothiazines, and neuroleptic drugs.

Contraindications

This medication is contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma or those who exhibit hypersensitivity to any of its components.

Side Effects

Patients may experience a mild burning sensation immediately after instillation. In pediatric patients, there is a risk of psychotic episodes, behavioral changes, and cardio-respiratory complications. Additionally, Tropicamide can impair the ability to drive or operate machinery, increase intraocular pressure, and lead to side effects such as dry mouth, tachycardia, and headaches.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C: Tropicamide should be administered to pregnant individuals only when necessary. The excretion of this medication in human milk is unknown, thus caution is advised when administering to breastfeeding mothers.

Precautions & Warnings

Consider the administration of a miotic antidote post-examination, if appropriate. To minimize systemic absorption, patients should apply pressure to the tear duct of the treated eye for 2-3 minutes immediately after instilling the drops. Caution is advised when using mydriatic and cycloplegic agents in elderly patients.

Overdose Effects

Signs of overdose may include facial flushing, rapid heartbeat, dry mouth, reduced perspiration, and elevated body temperature. In case of accidental ingestion, contact emergency services immediately. Local effects may be managed with a miotic agent as an antidote if necessary.

Therapeutic Class

Mydriatic and Cycloplegic Agents

Storage Conditions

Store at room temperature, protected from light. It is recommended to discard the contents one month after opening the bottle.