Tropicamide
Tropicamide is an anticholinergic eye drop that dilates the pupil (mydriasis) and temporarily paralyzes the focusing muscle of the eye (cycloplegia). It is primarily used to facilitate eye examinations and ophthalmic procedures, and may also be prescribed for inflammatory eye conditions. The effects typically last 4-6 hours.
A short-acting anticholinergic eye drop used to dilate pupils for eye exams and procedures.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- S01FA06
- RxNorm
- 10869
- Generic
- Tropicamide
- Class
- atc-s01
- Brands
- Mydriacyl, Paremyd, Mydcombi
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- ophthalmic
- Forms
- solution, spray
- 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.
Diagnostic pupil dilation for fundoscopic and retinal examinations; cycloplegic refraction testing (especially in children); pre-operative pupil dilation for ophthalmic surgery; treatment of inflammatory conditions such as uveitis and iritis.
Tropicamide is an antimuscarinic agent that blocks acetylcholine receptors in the iris sphincter muscle (causing mydriasis) and the ciliary muscle (causing cycloplegia). By preventing stimulation of these muscarinic receptors, the muscles relax, resulting in pupil dilation and loss of accommodation.
Onset occurs within 15-30 minutes with effects lasting 4-6 hours. May cause temporary blurred vision, stinging, or light sensitivity. Contraindicated in narrow-angle glaucoma due to risk of precipitating an acute attack. Should be used cautiously in children, elderly patients, and those with Down syndrome due to increased systemic absorption risk. Patients should avoid driving until vision clears.
Official drug label
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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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy