What is the purpose of cycloplegic eye drops?

Cycloplegic eye drops serve the specific purpose of temporarily paralyzing the ciliary muscle, which is crucial for focusing the lens of the eye. When the ciliary muscle is paralyzed, the eye can maintain a relaxed state, making it easier for the optometrist to perform detailed examinations, such as refractions or assessments for conditions like amblyopia or strabismus. This paralysis allows for a clearer view of the retina and brings more accuracy to the examination, as it eliminates any accommodation that could blur vision during the process.

While pupil dilation is often a part of the examination process, especially in conjunction with cycloplegic drops, the primary focus of these specific drops is on the paralysis of the ciliary muscle, thus enhancing the quality of the examination. Other options, such as treating eye infections or reducing intraocular pressure, are not relevant to the function of cycloplegic drops, as those are addressed by different medications and treatments.