Choosing the Right Concentration of Mydriatic Agents for Pseudomyopia - Ophthalmology

Share to:

How should the concentration of mydriatic agents be selected?


I am currently being treated for pseudomyopia with a prescription of 100 diopters.
The doctor advised me to look at distant objects and to rest well, but I lost the dilating drops that were prescribed to me.
I would like to ask the doctor whether I should choose a dilating drop concentration of 0.5% or 1%.
Additionally, during this period, can I wear contact lenses? (I have a baseline prescription of 400 diopters of myopia.) Thank you, doctor.

Dà èr shēng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/04/25

Dr. Feng Jiefan reply Ophthalmology


Hello: There are various concentrations of mydriatic agents, and the selection criteria are adjusted based on the clinical needs and the side effect of photophobia, without a fixed concentration standard.
Therefore, it should be determined by the physician's clinical judgment and cannot be assessed solely by the prescription strength.
Contact lenses can continue to be worn.
Sincerely, Dr.
Feng Jie-Fan, Ophthalmology.

Reply Date: 2007/04/25

More Info


When it comes to treating pseudomyopia, the choice of mydriatic agents and their concentrations is crucial for effective management. Pseudomyopia, often characterized by temporary nearsightedness due to excessive accommodation, can be alleviated through various methods, including the use of mydriatic agents to relax the ciliary muscle and reduce the strain on the eye.

In your case, the concentration of the mydriatic agent is an important consideration. Typically, mydriatic agents such as tropicamide are available in concentrations of 0.5% and 1%. The 0.5% concentration is generally sufficient for routine examinations and may be less likely to cause prolonged dilation or discomfort. However, the 1% concentration can provide a more profound effect, which might be beneficial in certain clinical situations. Given that you have been diagnosed with pseudomyopia, starting with the 0.5% concentration may be advisable, especially if you are new to using mydriatic agents or if you have any concerns about potential side effects.

Regarding the use of contact lenses during this period, it is essential to consider the nature of your condition and the recommendations of your eye care professional. Since you have a history of 400 degrees of myopia, wearing contact lenses may not be contraindicated, but it is crucial to ensure that they are appropriate for your eye health. If you are using mydriatic agents, your eyes may be more sensitive, and wearing contact lenses could potentially cause discomfort or exacerbate any irritation. It is generally recommended to avoid wearing contact lenses immediately after using mydriatic agents until the effects have worn off and your vision has returned to normal.

Additionally, while you are managing pseudomyopia, it is essential to follow your doctor's advice regarding visual hygiene. This includes taking regular breaks from near work, ensuring proper lighting, and engaging in activities that promote distance vision, such as looking at distant objects. These practices can help alleviate the symptoms of pseudomyopia and prevent further strain on your eyes.

In summary, for your treatment of pseudomyopia, starting with a 0.5% concentration of mydriatic agents is advisable, especially if you are new to their use. Be cautious with contact lens wear during this period, and prioritize your eye health by adhering to your doctor's recommendations. If you have any concerns or experience discomfort, do not hesitate to reach out to your eye care professional for further guidance.

Similar Q&A

How to Correct Pseudomyopia: Effective Solutions and Tips

How to correct pseudomyopia?


Dr. Huang Bozhen reply Ophthalmology
Explanation: Mydriatic agents (or cycloplegic agents) can be used for eye drop treatment.

[Read More] How to Correct Pseudomyopia: Effective Solutions and Tips


Understanding Cycloplegic Agent Concentrations for Myopia Management

Hello Dr. Wang, My child is currently 9 years old and has a myopia of -1.75 diopters. The ophthalmologist has recommended using a cycloplegic agent to slow the progression of myopia, with a prescribed concentration of 0.25%. A colleague's child, who is 11 years old, has a m...


Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology
Hello! The concentration of mydriatic agents is not solely based on the degree of refractive error but rather should be adjusted according to the individual's constitution and their response to the medication. If your child has been using 0.25% for a period of time and their...

[Read More] Understanding Cycloplegic Agent Concentrations for Myopia Management


Understanding the Use of Cycloplegic Agents in Pediatric Myopia Management

A sixth-grade child has recently experienced an increase in myopia from -3.50 diopters to -5.00 diopters over the past year. The physician has prescribed a cycloplegic agent. Here are the responses to your questions: 1. While using cycloplegic agents, vision may be blurred and l...


Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology
Hello, after instilling a mydriatic agent, the ability to focus on near objects may diminish. We utilize this characteristic to treat pseudomyopia. If the concentration of the mydriatic agent used is not high, it will not cause harm to the eyes. However, if a higher concentration...

[Read More] Understanding the Use of Cycloplegic Agents in Pediatric Myopia Management


Should You Use Dilating Drops for Accurate Vision Tests?

Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask if it is better to use a dilating agent during an eye exam. My prescription for both eyes is -2.50 to -2.75 with astigmatism of -1.25 and -1.00. If my prescription decreases after using the dilating agent, can I request the doctor to prescribe d...


Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology
Hello, basically, mydriatic agents for myopia are used before the age of 20, and the treatment for pseudomyopia is also applicable before the age of 18 to 20. After that, the eyeball has fully developed, and there should be no need for mydriatic agents. Thank you!

[Read More] Should You Use Dilating Drops for Accurate Vision Tests?


Related FAQ

Mydriatic Agent

(Ophthalmology)

Pseudomyopia

(Ophthalmology)

Vision Correction For Myopia

(Ophthalmology)

Eye Focusing

(Ophthalmology)

Laser Surgery For Myopia

(Ophthalmology)

High Myopia

(Ophthalmology)

Dilating Eye Drops

(Ophthalmology)

Eye Medication

(Ophthalmology)

Artificial Lens

(Ophthalmology)

Nystagmus

(Ophthalmology)