Cyclopentolate
Cyclogyl (cyclopentolate) is an anticholinergic eye drop used to temporarily dilate the pupil and paralyze the focusing muscles of the eye during eye examinations. It is commonly used in both children and adults to allow eye care professionals to better examine the retina and refractive error.
Cyclogyl is an eye drop that dilates pupils and temporarily relaxes eye focusing muscles for diagnostic examinations.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 2984
- Generic
- Cyclogyl
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Used to dilate pupils (mydriasis) and temporarily paralyze eye focusing muscles (cycloplegia) for comprehensive eye exams, including retinal examination and refraction testing. Also used to treat certain inflammatory conditions of the eye and to prevent adhesions during the healing process.
Cyclogyl is a muscarinic receptor antagonist that blocks acetylcholine from binding to receptors in the iris sphincter muscle and ciliary muscle, causing pupil dilation and temporary paralysis of the eye's focusing mechanism.
Effects typically last 24 hours or less. Temporary blurred vision and light sensitivity are common side effects. Should not be used in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma or certain other eye conditions. Use with caution in young children and individuals with Down syndrome. Patients should avoid driving until vision returns to normal.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy