Pharmacological Agents Used in Ocular Disorders: Mydriatics and Cycloplegics

Ophthalmology involves the use of various pharmacological agents to diagnose and treat eye disorders. Mydriatics and cycloplegics play a crucial role in these treatments by dilating the pupil and relaxing the ciliary muscles.

What are Mydriatics?

Mydriatics are drugs that cause pupil dilation. They are used for diagnostic examinations, surgical procedures, and treatment of certain ocular conditions.

• Common Mydriatics: Phenylephrine, Tropicamide
• Mechanism of Action: Stimulate adrenergic receptors to contract the pupillary dilator muscle.
• Clinical Uses: Ophthalmic examination, treatment of uveitis, pre-surgical preparation.

What are Cycloplegics?

Cycloplegics are agents that temporarily paralyze the ciliary muscle, preventing accommodation and inducing pupil dilation.

• Common Cycloplegics: Atropine, Cyclopentolate
• Mechanism of Action: Block acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, leading to relaxation of the ciliary muscle.
• Clinical Uses: Refraction tests, treatment of anterior uveitis, amblyopia management.

Adverse Effects & Contraindications

These agents can cause side effects such as photophobia, increased intraocular pressure, and systemic toxicity.

• Contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Possible systemic effects include tachycardia and dry mouth.