Cyclogyl: Rapid Mydriasis for Precise Ocular Examination
| Product dosage: 5 ml | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per bottle | Price | Buy |
| 2 | $9.04 | $18.07 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 4 | $6.28 | $36.14 $25.10 (31%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 6 | $5.35
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Synonyms | |||
Cyclogyl (cyclopentolate hydrochloride) is a potent anticholinergic agent formulated as an ophthalmic solution for diagnostic and therapeutic use. It induces rapid, predictable mydriasis (pupil dilation) and cycloplegia (paralysis of accommodation), enabling comprehensive anterior and posterior segment evaluation. Its fast onset and relatively short duration make it an indispensable tool for ophthalmologists, optometrists, and emergency physicians in facilitating accurate refractive assessment and detailed funduscopic examination. This agent is particularly valued in pediatric and uncooperative patient populations where precise measurement and visualization are critical.
Features
- Contains cyclopentolate hydrochloride 0.5%, 1%, or 2% ophthalmic solution
- Rapid onset of action: mydriasis typically begins within 30-60 minutes
- Provides complete cycloplegia for accurate refractive error determination
- Sterile, isotonic formulation with preservative (benzalkonium chloride 0.01%)
- Available in 2 mL, 5 mL, and 15 mL dropper bottles
- pH-adjusted to minimize ocular discomfort upon instillation
Benefits
- Enables precise measurement of refractive errors by paralyzing accommodation
- Facilitates detailed examination of the lens, vitreous, and retina through maximal pupillary dilation
- Short duration of action reduces patient inconvenience compared to longer-acting agents
- Predictable pharmacokinetic profile allows for streamlined clinical workflow
- Effective in breaking synechiae and managing inflammatory conditions
- Proven safety profile across diverse patient populations when administered appropriately
Common use
Cyclogyl is primarily employed for diagnostic purposes in ophthalmology and optometry. Its most frequent application involves cycloplegic refraction, particularly in children and young adults where accommodative spasm may artificially increase measured refractive error. It is standard practice for pre- and post-operative cataract evaluation, assessment of potential angle-closure glaucoma (with appropriate precautions), and thorough examination of the posterior segment in patients with diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, or retinal detachment. Therapeutically, it may be used to prevent synechiae formation in uveitis and other inflammatory conditions.
Dosage and direction
For cycloplegic refraction in adults: Instill 1 drop of 1% solution in each eye, repeated in 5-10 minutes if necessary. For children: Use 0.5%, 1%, or 2% solution based on age and pigmentation—typically 1 drop of 0.5% solution in infants, 1% in children aged 1-5 years, and 2% in older children with dark irides. Dilation is usually maximal within 30-60 minutes. For funduscopic examination: 1 drop of 0.5% or 1% solution is generally sufficient. Wait at least 5 minutes between instillations if multiple agents are used. Avoid contamination of dropper tip.
Precautions
Use with extreme caution in patients with narrow angles or anatomical predisposition to angle-closure glaucoma. Monitor intraocular pressure following administration. Exercise caution in infants, young children, and elderly patients due to potential systemic absorption. May cause temporary blurring of vision and photophobia—warn patients about these effects and advise against driving or operating machinery until effects resolve. Use protective sunglasses if going outdoors. Not recommended for prolonged use due to risk of elevated intraocular pressure.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to cyclopentolate or any component of the formulation. Avoid in patients with known or suspected angle-closure glaucoma (unless used as provocative test under controlled conditions). Contraindicated in patients with untreated open-angle glaucoma. Not recommended in patients with Down’s syndrome due to reported hypersensitivity reactions. Avoid in infants with history of necrotizing enterocolitis or gastrointestinal motility disorders.
Possible side effect
Ocular: Transient stinging/burning upon instillation (common), photophobia, blurred vision, elevated intraocular pressure, conjunctival hyperemia, superficial punctate keratitis. Systemic: Dry mouth, flushing, tachycardia, urinary retention, constipation, drowsiness, hallucinations (particularly in children), behavioral disturbances. Rare but serious: Psychotic reactions, seizures, cardiovascular collapse. Pediatric patients may exhibit ataxia, incoherent speech, and disorientation.
Drug interaction
Additive effects with other anticholinergic agents (atropine, homatropine, scopolamine). Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants may enhance systemic anticholinergic effects. May reduce gastrointestinal absorption of concurrently administered oral medications due to decreased motility. Caution with other topically applied ophthalmic medications—allow at least 5 minutes between instillations.
Missed dose
Cyclogyl is not intended for chronic regular administration. If a dose is missed during therapeutic use (e.g., for uveitis), instill as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double dose. For diagnostic single-use applications, missed dose is not applicable.
Overdose
Ocular overdose may result in prolonged cycloplegia and mydriasis. Systemic absorption may cause anticholinergic crisis: flushed, dry skin; hyperthermia; tachycardia; urinary retention; ileus; CNS effects including hallucinations, seizures, or respiratory depression. Treatment includes symptomatic support, activated charcoal if ingested, physostigmine for severe central anticholinergic effects under controlled conditions. Irrigate eyes with saline for ocular overdose.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (15-30°C/59-86°F). Protect from light. Keep bottle tightly closed when not in use. Discard solution if it changes color or becomes cloudy. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment recommendations. The prescribing physician should be familiar with complete prescribing information before administration. Dosage may need adjustment based on individual patient factors.
Reviews
“Cyclogyl remains our gold standard for pediatric cycloplegia. The 30-minute onset and 6-8 hour duration provide the perfect window for accurate refraction without prolonged disability.” — Pediatric Ophthalmologist, Children’s Hospital
“Superior to tropicamide for complete cycloplegia in young adults with high accommodation. We use it routinely for pre-LASIK evaluations.” — Refractive Surgeon, Vision Center
“While effective, we carefully monitor infants for systemic effects. The 0.5% formulation has improved our safety profile in neonates.” — Neonatologist, University Medical Center
“Essential for difficult funduscopic exams in diabetic patients. The dilation is predictable and sufficient for panretinal photocoagulation planning.” — Retinal Specialist, Diabetes Institute