The mydriatic effect of topical glycopyrrolate.
BACKGROUND
Glycopyrrolate, an anticholinergic agent that does not cross the blood-brain barrier, has several indications, but its mydriatic effect has never been tested. This study was carried out in order to compare the mydriatic effect of glycopyrrolate 0.5% to that of atropine sulfate 1%.


METHODS
Glycopyrrolate 0.5% and atropine 1.0% were instilled separately in the eyes of albino rabbits. Pupil diameter and intra-ocular pressure were monitored.


RESULTS
Mydriasis was noted within 5 min of glycopyrrolate instillation, reached near-maximal level at 15 min and persisted for 1 week. Glycopyrrolate 0.5% showed a faster, stronger and more persistent mydriatic effect than atropine 1.0%. Administration of glycopyrrolate 0.5% solution b.i.d. for 1 week did not affect intra-ocular pressure or produce any adverse reaction.


CONCLUSIONS
Glycopyrrolate solution has the potential to deliver an ocular anticholinergic effect without causing associated central anticholinergic hazards.
Varssano
D
D
Department of Ophthalmology, Ichilov Hospital, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
Rothman
S
S
Haas
K
K
Lazar
M
M
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000818:Animals; D001285:Atropine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology; D006024:Glycopyrrolate / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology*; D007429:Intraocular Pressure; D018727:Muscarinic Antagonists / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology*; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D011680:Pupil / Q000187:drug effects*; D011817:Rabbits
D018727:Muscarinic Antagonists; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D001285:Atropine; D006024:Glycopyrrolate