Tropicamide + Phenylephrine HCl

• Type: Combination mydriatic (pupil-dilating) eye drops

• Main Use: Produces faster, stronger, and longer-lasting pupil dilation compared to either drug alone.

• Often used for eye examinations and surgical preparation when maximum dilation is needed.

How It Works

1. Tropicamide

   • Class: Antimuscarinic

   • Action: Relaxes the iris sphincter muscle (parasympathetic blockade) → dilates pupil and temporarily paralyzes accommodation (cycloplegia).

2. Phenylephrine HCl

   • Class: Sympathomimetic (alpha-adrenergic agonist)

   • Action: Stimulates iris dilator muscle (sympathetic pathway) → widens pupil without affecting accommodation.

Together, they work on both mechanisms of pupil control, leading to maximum dilation.

Common Uses

• Fundus examination (detailed retinal check-up)

• Pre-operative preparation before cataract surgery or retinal procedures

• Diagnostic use in certain eye conditions requiring wide pupil opening

• Sometimes used in uveitis to break or prevent synechiae (adhesions inside the eye)

Advantages

• Produces quicker and more complete mydriasis than either drug alone

• Allows better visualization of retina and optic nerve

• Useful for patients who require strong dilation for surgery or detailed examination

Possible Side Effects

• Eye-related:

  • Temporary blurred vision

  • Photophobia (light sensitivity)

  • Mild stinging or redness

• Systemic (rare):

  • Increased blood pressure (due to phenylephrine)

  • Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)

  • Headache or dizziness

Precautions

• Should be used cautiously in patients with glaucoma (especially angle-closure type).

• Monitor blood pressure in patients with hypertension or heart disease.

• Wear sunglasses after use to protect from bright light until pupil size returns to normal.

• Avoid driving until vision clears.