Eye drops used in the children's eye clinic

The drops used are called cyclopentolate hydrochloride eye drops. These drops are necessary in order for the ophthalmologist (eye doctor) to examine your child's eyes. They work by relaxing the focusing muscles inside the eye, and dilating (widening) the pupils. These drops will take up to 40 minutes to work. Occasionally your child may need two lots of eye drops.

These drops can cause blurriness to your child's vision, which can last up to 24 hours. The eyes may also become sensitive to light, so you may want to bring a sun hat or sunglasses for your child to wear after the examination is finished.

Children are usually fine to go back to school and parents should inform the teacher that their child's vision may be blurred especially for close work. However, parents are welcome to discuss this with the doctor and decide if they wish to keep their child at home.