Generic
Tropicamide 0.5% Eye prep
9 brands available in the market
At a glance
Tropicamide 0.5% Eye prep is used before eye examinations and to treat an eye condition called uveitis. It acts by enlarging the pupil of the eyes and helps the doctor visualize the eye more closely.
Description
Tropicamide is a tertiary amine antimuscarinic which causes relaxation of the sphincter muscle of the iris resulting in pupillary dilatation. It also causes paralysis of the ciliary muscle leading to loss of accommodation.
Indications
- Eye examination
- Uveitis
Therapeutic class
Mydriatic and Cycloplegic agents
Pharmacological class
Antimuscarinic
Pharmacology
Tropicamide induces mydriasis and cycloplegia through paralysis of the parasympathetic system. It competes with acetylcholine for uptake at the receptor sites, thereby blocking its action. The results are mydriasis and cycloplegia.
Mechanism of action
Paralyses the parasympathetic system, causing pupillary dilation and cycloplegia.
Dosage
Adult and Child Dose (Ophthalmic):
- Mydriasis: 1-2 drops of 0.5% solution 15-20 minutes before examination
- Refraction: 1-2 drops, repeated in 5 minutes; additional drop after 20-30 minutes if needed
- Fundus examination: 1 drop 15-20 minutes prior to examination
Administration
- For ophthalmic use only
- Do not touch dropper tip to any surface
- Apply pressure to inner corner of eye for 1 minute after instillation
- Wait 5-10 minutes before other eye medications
- Use within 4 weeks of opening
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible; if almost time for next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Stinging in the eyes
- Blurred vision
- Dryness in mouth
- Increased intraocular pressure
- Tachycardia
- Headache
- Allergic reaction
Precautions & warnings
- May affect ability to drive
- Bright light may be uncomfortable; wear sunglasses
- Apply pressure to inner corner of eye for 2-3 minutes after instillation to reduce systemic absorption
- Use with care in older patients
Contraindications
- Narrow angle glaucoma
- Hypersensitivity to any component
Drug interactions
- Ophthalmic carbachol, pilocarpine, or cholinesterase inhibitors: may antagonise effects
- Atropine-like substances, tricyclic antidepressants, H1 antihistaminics, anticholinergic agents, anti-Parkinson drugs, phenothiazines, neuroleptic drugs: may reinforce tropicamide effect
Food interactions
No food interactions known.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe; animal studies show harmful effects; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Probably safe; limited human data suggests no significant risk; consult your doctor. Place pressure over corner of eye for 1 minute to reduce amount reaching breastmilk.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children (caution in children under 6 years)
Geriatric use
Use with care in older patients
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Not applicable (ophthalmic application)
Hepatic Impairment: Not applicable (ophthalmic application)
Overdose effects
Symptoms: Red face, accelerated pulse, dry mouth, reduced sweating and secretion, increased body temperature.
Treatment: Miotic agent (antidote); supportive.
Storage conditions
Store at room temperature and protect from light. Do not use more than one month after first opening.