FAQs:
Tropicamide is an anticholinergic drug belonging to alkaloids and is derived from atropine. It is widely used to dilate the pupil of the eye for ocular examination and various ocular procedures. Tropicamide acts by relaxation of the eye muscles by acting as a muscarinic receptor antagonist, leading to dilation of the pupil. The most common formulations of Tropicamide are eye drops, available in strengths of 0.5% and 1% solutions. Eye drops are indicated for external use only.
What are the uses of Tropicamide?
– Tropicamide is an anticholinergic muscarinic receptor antagonist that is used to cause cycloplegia and mydriasis. It is usually given before eye examinations to dilate the pupil of the eye for better examination.
– Tropicamide is also used in various ocular producers to dilate the pupil for ease of the procedure.
– It is also indicated post-cataract surgery to reduce swelling and redness of the eyes.
– Indicated in the treatment of uveitis to reduce the inflammation
What are the side effects of Tropicamide?
Common side effects
– Stinging pain in the eyes
– Dry eyes
– Blurred vision
– Dryness of mouth
– Eye sensitivity
Serious side effects
– Mood change
– Muscle stiffness
– Tachycardia (fast heartbeat)
– Hypersensitivity reaction
– Dizziness
– Vision changes
– Confusion
– Trouble in breathing
Most of the side effects related to the administration of Tropicamide resolve on their own without any need for medical care. However, if the adverse effects persist or start to bother you, inform your doctor immediately.
2. Is tropicamide a cycloplegic?
Yes, tropicamide is a cycloplegic drug that causes the paralysis of the ciliary muscles in the eyes. This leads to pupil dilation and paralysis of the eye accommodation. The cycloplegic effect of tropicamide has enabled its use in various eye examinations and ocular procedures to achieve required dilation.
7. What is the difference between tropicamide and Phenylephrine?
Phenylephrine is a sympathomimetic drug that causes vasoconstriction and dilation of the pupil for eye examinations. Tropicamide on the other hand is an anticholinergic drug derived from atropine. Both the drugs differ in their mechanism of action. Studies have shown that tropicamide is more effective in dilating the pupil than phenylephrine.
9. Can a pregnant woman take Tropicamide?
Tropicamide might be unsafe for pregnant women. Although there is very limited data to support the use of tropicamide in pregnancy, your baby might be at risk to develop side effects. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant while on tropicamide therapy.
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Side Effects:
– Dry eyes
– Blurred vision
– Dryness of mouth
– Eye sensitivity
– Mood change
– Muscle stiffness
– Tachycardia (fast heartbeat)
– Hypersensitivity reaction
– Dizziness
– Vision changes
– Confusion
– Trouble in breathing
References:
More about Tropicamide:
Most of the side effects related to the administration of Tropicamide resolve on their own without any need for medical care. However, if the adverse effects persist or start to bother you, inform your doctor immediately.