cycloplegic
Pronunciation: sy-kloh-PLEE-jik
A medication that paralyzes the ciliary muscle, preventing accommodation and maintaining pupil dilation.
Full Definition
Cycloplegic agents are pharmaceutical compounds that block muscarinic receptors in the ciliary muscle, causing temporary paralysis of accommodation. Unlike simple mydriatics, cycloplegics not only dilate the pupil but also prevent the eye from focusing at different distances. This dual action is particularly useful in pediatric examinations, refractive error assessments, and certain surgical procedures. Common cycloplegics include atropine, homatropine, and cyclopentolate, with varying durations of action ranging from hours to weeks.
Usage
Usage note: All cycloplegics are mydriatic, but not all mydriatics are cycloplegic.
In Context
- "A cycloplegic refraction was performed to determine the patient's true refractive error." — Preoperative assessment
- "Atropine was used as a cycloplegic agent to maintain accommodation paralysis during the examination." — Pediatric eye exam report