CYCLOGYL (CYCLOPENTOLATE HCL)

The Use of Cyclogyl During an Eye Exam

Cyclogyl is a medicated eye drop that your ophthalmologist can instill into your eyes prior to the exam. This is so your pupil will remain fully dilated or widened and allow the doctor to have an unobstructed view of the back of your eyes. Your eyes can tell a lot about your health so it’s important to examine your cornea, iris, lens, and with the help of Cyclogyl, the back of your eyes where signs of black spots or blotchy areas can appear that signal a possible disease or condition that needs attention.

Other general health problems can also be diagnosed by your eye doctor, such as hypertension, glaucoma, cataracts. You may also be prescribed Cyclogyl for treating an inflammatory condition in your eye called anterior uveitis that you will administer yourself at home.

How Cyclogyl Works

Once instilled in your eyes, your ophthalmologist will give it time to take effect. The active ingredient, called Cyclopentolate HCl (hydrochloride), will block the action of certain receptors in your iris sphincter (muscle) so the pupil are not able to constrict like they do in bright sunlight. Cyclogyl can block the action of your ciliary muscles of the lens so there is a loss of accommodation, meaning you will be unable to adjustment your eyes for seeing objects far away or close up. The effects of Cyclogyl will wear off within 24 hours.

Glaucoma and Cataracts

Once you are into your late 50’s or early 60’s, it may be advised that you have your eyes examined once a year. Glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration are 3 of the most common age-related diseases that your ophthalmologist can detect during an eye exam. Glaucoma occurs when the trabecular meshwork in your eyes is not allowing fluid to drain out and pressure builds inside your eye. This pressure can damage your optic nerve and cause vision loss if left undetected and untreated. Cataracts indicate a clumping of the protein in your eyes that can form a cloudy area in your lens. Macular degeneration affects the part of your retina called the macula, where light rays focus to give you detailed vision.

Things Your Doctor Should Know

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast feeding to be certain of any risks that Cyclogyl could harm an unborn or nursing baby. Discuss other medical conditions or allergies you have and provide a list of any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including herbal preparations and dietary or vitamin supplements. This will help to determine if Cyclogyl is the right medication for you.

Important Information About Cyclogyl

Keep Cyclogyl, and all other medications, out of children’s reach and never share any drugs with others. Use Cyclogyl for the time period indicated by your doctor as stopping too soon may result in damage to your vision. Always remove any contact lenses before instilling Cyclogyl to be certain you receive the full benefits of the medicine and to avoid possible damage to your contacts from the preservative in these eye drops. Do not drive or attempt any actions that require you to see well until the effects of Cyclogyl have worn off.

Possible Side Effects of Cyclogyl

• Impaired vision
• Burning or irritation after instilling
• Increased sensitivity to light