Accidental mydriasis from scopolamine patches

Although scopolamine is rarely intentionally applied directly to the eye, accidental contamination can occur after touching or handling a transdermal scopolamine patch, worn behind the ear to prevent motion sickness, and then rubbing one's eyes or handling contact lenses. An acute episode of prolonged cycloplegia with no admission of use of any medication by the patient was only resolved after direct questioning as to the use of a scopolamine patch revealed its removal within a 36 hour period.