Induction of Mydriasis
Induction of Mydriasis Using Pharmacological Agents
Mydriasis is the medical term for an enlarged, dilated pupil. It can be caused by a range of conditions, including traumas or inflammatory diseases. An oftentimes treatment includes the use of a pharmacological agent. The list of drugs for the induction of mydriasis includes the following:
Sympathomimetics
- Epinephrine
- Norepinephrine
- Dipivefrin
- Phenylephrine
- Neosynephrine
- Metaproterenol
- Isoproterenol
Cholinergic Agents
- Carbachol
- Pilocarpine
- Demecarium bromide
- Echothiophate iodide
The procedure of deciding which drug to use and at what dosage depends on the condition of the patient in need of treatment. It is important for the doctor to consider potential side effects or adverse reactions to any drug that may be used. For instance, while sympathomimetics can act quickly and provide good pupil dilation, some may induce hyphema (bleeding in the anterior chamber of the eye). It is often common for doctors to use combinations of drugs; these should be tailored to each specific patient.
Mydriasis can be life-saving when correctly administered to treat an underlying eye injury or inflammatory condition. However, it should only be done so with the assistance of a trained eye care professional.