When Can My Child Stop Using Cycloplegic Drops After Ortho-K?

Q: When Can My Child Stop Using Cycloplegic Drops After Ortho-K?

Hello Doremi： You can stop it directly; it won't have any impact.

How long after switching to orthokeratology lenses can I stop using dilating drops?

Hello, Dr.
Gao.
My daughter is 11 years old.
She was diagnosed with myopia of -0.75 diopters when she was 9 years old and started using a 0.01% atropine eye drop, which she has been using for two years.
Her current prescription is -2.25 diopters.
She began wearing orthokeratology lenses on January 7th.
I am hesitant to stop the atropine drops all at once, so I apply the drops before bed and wait 10 minutes before putting in the lenses.
However, I read online that this might affect the reshaping effect of the lenses.
What should I do? Is it safe to discontinue the atropine drops? Thank you, doctor.

Doremi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/16

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Doremi: You can stop it directly; it won't have any impact.

Reply Date: 2022/01/16

More Info

When it comes to the use of cycloplegic drops, particularly in the context of orthokeratology (Ortho-K), it is essential to understand both the purpose of these drops and their potential impact on the effectiveness of the Ortho-K lenses. Cycloplegic drops, such as those containing atropine or other similar agents, are often used to temporarily paralyze the ciliary muscle of the eye, which can help in managing myopia progression by reducing the eye's ability to accommodate.

In your case, your daughter has been using a low concentration cycloplegic drop (0.01%) for two years and has recently started wearing Ortho-K lenses. The concern about whether to continue using the drops while wearing the lenses is valid. While the drops can help in controlling myopia, they may also have an effect on the corneal reshaping process that Ortho-K aims to achieve.

1. Impact on Ortho-K Effectiveness: The primary concern with using cycloplegic drops before inserting Ortho-K lenses is that the drops can affect the corneal shape and the overall refractive status of the eye. If the drops are used immediately before lens insertion, they may alter the expected outcome of the lens therapy. It is generally recommended to allow some time between the application of cycloplegic drops and the insertion of Ortho-K lenses to minimize any potential interference with the lens's reshaping effect.

2. When to Stop Using Cycloplegic Drops: The decision to stop using cycloplegic drops should be made in consultation with your eye care professional. They will consider your daughter's current level of myopia, the effectiveness of the Ortho-K treatment, and any other individual factors that may influence her eye health. In many cases, once the Ortho-K lenses are effectively controlling myopia and the eye is stable, the use of cycloplegic drops may be reduced or discontinued.

3. Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with your eye care provider are crucial. They will monitor your daughter's vision and the effectiveness of the Ortho-K treatment. If her myopia stabilizes and the lenses are performing well, your doctor may recommend tapering off the cycloplegic drops.
4. Potential Side Effects: While low-dose cycloplegic drops are generally well-tolerated, they can have side effects such as light sensitivity, blurred vision, and difficulty focusing. If your daughter experiences any discomfort or adverse effects, it is essential to discuss these with her eye care provider.

In summary, it is advisable to consult with your eye care professional regarding the continuation of cycloplegic drops while using Ortho-K lenses. They will provide personalized recommendations based on your daughter's specific situation and eye health. The goal is to ensure that her myopia is managed effectively while maximizing the benefits of the Ortho-K treatment.

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