Cyclopentolate
Cyclopentolate is an anticholinergic eye drop medication used primarily for pupil dilation (mydriasis) and temporary paralysis of the eye's focusing muscles (cycloplegia). It is commonly prescribed before eye examinations and certain surgical procedures, as well as to treat inflammatory eye conditions. The medication works by blocking muscarinic receptors in the eye's muscles, causing the pupil to dilate and preventing the eye from changing focus.
Cyclopentolate is an ophthalmic anticholinergic used to dilate pupils and temporarily paralyze eye focusing muscles for examinations, surgery, and treatment of inflammatory conditions.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- S01FA04
- RxNorm
- 3001
- Generic
- Cyclopentolate
- Class
- atc-s01
- Brands
- Cylate, Cyclogyl, Cyclomydril
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- ophthalmic
- Forms
- solution
- 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.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 1-2 drops per eye
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- single dose or as needed for examination
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 1 drop per eye
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- single dose or as needed for examination
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 1-2 drops per eye
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- single dose or as needed for examination
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
use only if benefits outweigh potential risks to fetus
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only when clinically indicated
standard prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
n anone required
compatible with breastfeeding due to minimal systemic absorption
none
pediatric_age
infantsuse lower concentration 0.5%
use with extreme caution in neonates and infants under 3 months due to immature metabolism
monitor for systemic anticholinergic effects and respiratory depression
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
childrenstandard pediatric dosing
commonly used for cycloplegic refractions in children over 6 months
observe for behavioral changes and flushing
geriatric
n ause caution
may have increased sensitivity to anticholinergic effects monitor for confusion or urinary retention
monitor for systemic anticholinergic effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mildno adjustment needed
standard dosing due to minimal systemic absorption
none
hepatic_impairment
mild moderateno adjustment needed
standard dosing due to minimal systemic absorption
none
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information for ophthalmic cycloplegic use
Drug class
Drug class as antimuscarinic cycloplegic agent
Common uses
Primary therapeutic uses in ophthalmic practice
Mechanism of action
Primary pharmacodynamic mechanism
Used for diagnostic pupil dilation during eye examinations (fundoscopy, refraction testing), pre- and post-operative mydriasis for ophthalmic surgery, and therapeutic cycloplegia in the treatment of anterior uveitis and other inflammatory conditions of the eye.
Cyclopentolate is an anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) agent that competitively blocks acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in the smooth muscle of the iris sphincter (causing mydriasis) and the ciliary muscle (causing cycloplegia). This prevents pupil constriction and accommodation, allowing the eye to remain in a dilated, relaxed state.
Contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma or those with a family history of glaucoma. Can cause temporary blurred vision, stinging, and photophobia. Systemic absorption may lead to anticholinergic effects, particularly in children and elderly patients. Patients should not drive or operate machinery until vision clears. Use with caution in patients with Down syndrome, spastic paralysis, or cardiovascular conditions.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
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 August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy