Cyclopentolate

Cyclopentolate is an anticholinergic agent administered topically as eye drops. It blocks the responses of the sphincter muscle of the iris and the accommodative muscle of the ciliary body to cholinergic stimulation, producing pupillary dilation and temporary loss of accommodation.

Dosage by Body Weight

For ophthalmic diagnostic use only. Instill into the conjunctival sac. To minimize systemic absorption, compress the lacrimal sac (nasolacrimal occlusion) during and immediately after instillation for 2 to 3 minutes.

  1. Body Weight
    Below 5 kg
    Dose
    1 drop of 0.5% solution
    Frequency
    Single dose (may repeat once after 5-10 minutes if strictly necessary)
    Tracking Notes
    Use with extreme caution. Highly susceptible to systemic anticholinergic toxicity. Perform nasolacrimal occlusion. Closely monitor infant for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Body Weight
    5-7 kg
    Dose
    1 drop of 0.5% or 1% solution
    Frequency
    Single dose (may repeat once after 5-10 minutes if necessary)
    Tracking Notes
    Observe closely for systemic side effects such as rapid pulse or flushed skin. Ensure proper nasolacrimal occlusion is performed.
  3. Body Weight
    8-10 kg
    Dose
    1 drop of 1% solution
    Frequency
    Single dose (may repeat once after 5-10 minutes if necessary)
    Tracking Notes
    Do not use concentrations higher than 1% in infants and young children to avoid adverse systemic reactions.
  4. Body Weight
    11-15 kg
    Dose
    1 drop of 1% solution
    Frequency
    Single dose (may repeat once after 5-10 minutes if necessary)
    Tracking Notes
    Standard pediatric dose. Monitor for behavioral changes, flushing, or increased body temperature.
  5. Body Weight
    16-20 kg
    Dose
    1 to 2 drops of 1% solution
    Frequency
    Single dose (may repeat once after 5-10 minutes if necessary)
    Tracking Notes
    Standard pediatric dosing. Withhold feeding for up to 4 hours after the procedure to prevent feeding intolerance or bloating.

Formulation

Ophthalmic SolutionEye Drops

Purpose

Used to dilate the pupils (mydriasis) and temporarily paralyze the focusing muscles of the eye (cycloplegia) during diagnostic procedures such as cycloplegic refraction and ophthalmoscopic examinations.

Generic Name

Cyclopentolate Hydrochloride

Branded Drug Names

Cyclopentolate is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:

Scheduled Drug

Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.

Alternatives

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. WHO references and weight bands are simplified for tracking and must not replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication.