CYCLOPENTOLATE HYDROCHLORIDE

Cyclogel

Reviewed by Dorothy Cooper

September 1998

Management of Cyclopentolate Administration

Description

Clear colourless solution cyclopentolate 0.5% - no preservative - in small plastic containers.

Prescription

Charted on stat page of prescription chart stating strength, dose and frequency.

Administration

Eye Drops

No further dilution necessary.
Avoid touching the conjunctiva with the tip of the dispenser.
Each baby must have own dispenser.
Systemic absorption can be minimised by depressing lacrimal sac for 1-2 minutes after instillation of drug.
Check pupil in 15 minutes and instil second dose.

Nursing Considerations

Observe for bradycardia during instillation.
Monitor for adverse effects.
Monitor oxygenation where appropriate.
Avoid bright light (photophobia due to cycloplegic action).

Storage

Store in refrigerator 2-5°C
Protect from light.
Expires as per date on box.

References

1	Pawlak RP, Herfert LAT. Drug Administration in the NICU. Neonatal Network 2nd Ed 1991; P62-63.
2	Greaney M, Saunders R (eds) NE Compendium: Detailed prescribing information. Auckland, Adis Press 1990; p1048.
3	Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Centre, Seattle, Washington. Formulary of Medications 1998/1999, Lexicomp, p180-1.
4	Knight DB, National Women's Hospital, Retinopathy of Prematurity, Doctors Protocol Book, January 1998/R6.
5	Screening Examination of Preterm Infants for Retinopathy of Prematurity. A joint statement of the American Academy of Pediatrics. The American Association of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus and the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Pediatrics 1997; 100:273.
6	Retinopathy of Prematurity: Guidelines for screening and treatment. The report of a joint working party of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and the British Association of Perinatal Medicine, Early Human Development 1996; 46:239-58.