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Cyclopentolate; Phenylephrine Eye Solution

What is this medication?

CYCLOPENTOLATE; PHENYLEPHRINE (sye kloe PEN toe late; fen il EF rin) enlarges (dilates) your pupils before an eye exam or procedure. It works by relaxing the muscles of your eyes. This makes it easier to view the inner eye.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cyclomydril

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Cerebral palsy
  • Down Syndrome
  • Glaucoma
  • Head trauma
  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Thyroid disease
  • Wear contact lenses
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to cyclopentolate, phenylephrine, or other medications, foods, dyes or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to become pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is only for use in the eye(s). Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label or of your prescriber. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt the head back slightly and pull the lower eyelid down with the index finger to form a pouch. Squeeze a single drop into the pouch and close your eyes. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of your eye for 2 to 3 minutes. Your care team may want you to repeat a drop in 5 or 10 minutes. Follow their exact instructions. Do not touch dropper tip to any surface. Do not use it more often than directed.

Contact your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be used in children and infants, special care is needed.

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Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Atropine
  • Carbachol
  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
  • Medications for blood pressure
  • Medications for mental health conditions
  • Pilocarpine

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Do not use this medication for longer than directed by your care team.

Report any serious side effects right away. If your vision is still blurred after a day, or if your eyes become inflamed, painful or have a discharge, see your care team right away.

If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this medication.

This medication will cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until after your eyes are no longer dilated.

This medication makes your eyes more sensitive to light while your eyes are dilated. Sunglasses may be helpful. Avoid bright lights until after your eyes are no longer dilated.

If giving this medication to a child or infant, wash both your hands and the child's hands after using it. Infant feedings should be held for 4 hours after administration of this medication. Observe children and infants closely for at least 30 minutes after giving this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Hallucinations
  • New or worsening eye pain, redness, irritation, or discharge
  • Unusual changes in behavior

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Blurry vision
  • Dry mouth
  • Eye irritation or itching
  • Sensitivity to light

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 8 and 27 degrees C (46 and 80 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

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NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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