[Effect of N-ethyl-N-(4-pyridylmethyl)tropamide (Mydriaticum Roche) on the results of the Schirmer test].

Deficient lacrimal secretion as a consequence of systemic drug therapy has been reported after the use of phenothiazines, antihistaminics, psychotropic drugs, anesthetics, diuretics, beta-blocking agents, ganglion blockers etc. But topical application of beta-blocking eye drops may also decrease tear production. The study reported here proves that tear production is also decreased if one drop of "Mydriaticum Roche" eye drops is applied. This effect was observed especially in patients who had "normal basic tear production" prior to treatment; however, "Mydriaticum Roche" did not cause a further decrease in tear production during Schirmer's test when the basic tear secretion level was already very low. Therefore, in order to avoid "false positive" results Schirmer's test should always be performed before instillation of atropine-active eye drops such as "Mydriaticum Roche".