SIDE EFFECTS
Ocular
Increased intraocular pressure, burning, photophobia, blurred vision, irritation, hyperemia,
conjunctivitis, blepharoconjunctivitis, punctate keratitis, synechiae have been reported.
Non-Ocular
Use of cyclopentolate has been associated with psychotic reactions and behavioral
disturbances, usually in children, especially with 2% concentration. These disturbances include ataxia,
incoherent speech, restlessness, hallucinations, hyperactivity, seizures, disorientation as to time and
place, and failure to recognize people. This drug produces reactions similar to those of other
anticholinergic drugs, but the central nervous system manifestations as noted above are more common.
Other toxic manifestations of anticholinergic drugs are skin rash, abdominal distention in infants, unusual
drowsiness, tachycardia, hyperpyrexia, vasodilation, urinary retention, diminished gastrointestinal
motility and decreased secretion in salivary and sweat glands, pharynx, bronchi and nasal passages.
Severe manifestations of toxicity include coma, medullary paralysis and death.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Cyclopentolate may interfere with the ocular anti-hypertensive action of carbachol, pilocarpine, or
ophthalmic cholinesterase inhibitors.