Phenylephrine is described as which type of drop?

Phenylephrine is described as which type of drop?

• A. Lubricating drop
• B. Dilating drop
• C. Antibiotic drop
• D. Steroid drop

Answer: (B)

Phenylephrine is a dilating drop. It works as a direct sympathomimetic that stimulates the alpha-1 receptors on the iris dilator muscle (radial muscle), causing the pupil to contract its dilator and dilate (mydriasis). This is why it’s used to enlarge the pupil for examinations or certain procedures. It’s not a lubricant (which would moisturize the eye), not an antibiotic (which fights infection), and not a steroid (which reduces inflammation). Be aware that dilation can raise blood pressure and, in susceptible eyes, may precipitate an angle-closure attack, so it’s used with caution in those cases.

Phenylephrine is a dilating drop. It works as a direct sympathomimetic that stimulates the alpha-1 receptors on the iris dilator muscle (radial muscle), causing the pupil to contract its dilator and dilate (mydriasis). This is why it’s used to enlarge the pupil for examinations or certain procedures. It’s not a lubricant (which would moisturize the eye), not an antibiotic (which fights infection), and not a steroid (which reduces inflammation). Be aware that dilation can raise blood pressure and, in susceptible eyes, may precipitate an angle-closure attack, so it’s used with caution in those cases.