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Mydriatic Eyedrops and Cataracts

Mydriatic eyedrops enlarge (dilate) the pupils of the eyes. These eyedrops may allow an adult or child to see around a cataract. Mydriatic drops are rarely prescribed for cataracts. And they are only used for a short time. Decisions about the use of mydriatic eyedrops need to be made after discussion with an ophthalmologist about the potential benefits.

These eyedrops increase the amount of light getting into the eye. And they are sometimes used to help prevent vision loss in very young children who need to wait for surgery to be done.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Carol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology
Last Revised August 24, 2011

Last Revised: August 24, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD, MD - Family Medicine & Carol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology

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