Cycloplegic and mydriatic agents for routine ophthalmologic examination: a survey of pediatric ophthalmologists.

INTRODUCTION

We have used a mixture of tropicamide 1% and cyclopentolate 2% for routine cycloplegia in children. Because our hospital pharmacy expressed reluctance to prepare this mixture, we were interested in the current standard of care among pediatric ophthalmologists.

METHODS

A survey was mailed to all members and associate members of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. Responses were tabulated from 522 respondents (62%).

RESULTS

Mixtures were used by 22% of respondents for neonates and by 40% for older children. The most popular mixtures were cyclopentolate and phenylephrine for neonates and cyclopentolate, phenylephrine, and tropicamide for older children.

CONCLUSION

Although a commercially available mixture (Cyclomydril; Alcon, Ft. Worth, TX) has found wide acceptance for treatment of neonates, ophthalmologists seeking stronger concentrations for older children must rely on alternate sources. There would appear to be a market for such a product.