Efficacy of an eye drop mixture for pupillary dilatation: A randomized comparative study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Pupillary dilatation is a standard ophthalmic procedure.
• Current methods involve multiple eye drop instillations, increasing workload.
• A fixed combination of mydriatic agents could streamline the process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of a fixed combination eye drop (TPD) versus conventional separate eye drops for pupillary dilatation.
• To assess systemic effects associated with each protocol.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, randomized, comparative study.
• 30 Thai patients received either conventional drops (tropicamide, phenylephrine, diclofenac) or a fixed combination (TPD).
• Pupillary size and systemic parameters were measured.

Main Results:

• Both protocols achieved comparable pupillary dilatation rates.
• The fixed combination (TPD) group showed reduced systemic effects on blood pressure and pulse rate.
• All patients in the TPD group achieved target mydriasis within 60 minutes.

Conclusions:

• A fixed combination of tropicamide, phenylephrine, and diclofenac is as effective as separate drops for pupillary dilatation.
• The fixed combination demonstrates a favorable safety profile with fewer systemic complications.
• This TPD formulation offers a potentially more efficient and safer alternative for clinical use.