TROPICAMIDE (OPHTHALMIC)

Indications/Pharmacology

Tropicamide, like atropine, causes mydriasis and cycloplegia, but has more mydriatic than cycloplegic activity. Tropicamide has a more rapid onset (maximum mydriasis in 15-30 minutes) of action and a shorter duration of action (pupil returns to normal in 6-12 hours in most animals)than does atropine, thereby making it more useful for funduscopic examinations. In dogs, intraocularpressure is apparently not affected by tropicamide.Suggested Dosages/Precautions/Adverse Effects - Once or twice application to eye, prior to exam.
Following cataract surgery: apply 2-3 times daily to keep pupil constantly changing in size and reduce formation of synechiae associated with prolonged pupillary dilation (atropine). Note: a current trend away from the use of mydriatics after intraocular surgery has developed in recognition of immediate postoperative pressure elevations in some animals following surgery.
Tropicamide is less effective in pain control (cycloplegia) than atropine.
Tropicamide may cause salivation, particularly in cats and may also sting when applied. Tropicamide may precipitate acute congestive glaucoma in predisposed patients.Dosage Forms/Preparations/FDA Approval Status -
Veterinary Approved Products: None
Human-Approved Products: Tropicamide Solution 0.5% and 1% in 2 ml & 15 ml bottles;
Mydriacyl® (Alcon), Opticyl® (Optopics), Tropicacyl® (Akorn), Generic; (Rx)
Topical Anesthetics