Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What type of drug is Mydriacyl (tropicamide)?

1. Sympathomimetic

2. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory

3. Parasympatholytic

4. Antibiotic

The correct answer is: Parasympatholytic

Mydriacyl, or tropicamide, is classified as a parasympatholytic drug. This means it works by blocking the action of the parasympathetic nervous system, specifically the effects of acetylcholine on the iris sphincter muscle. By doing so, it causes dilation of the pupil, a phenomenon known as mydriasis. This effect is particularly useful in ophthalmology for procedures that require improved visibility of the interior structures of the eye, such as a fundoscopic examination. The action of tropicamide helps to facilitate the examination of the retina and other intraocular structures by ensuring that the pupil remains dilated for a sufficient duration. This characteristic is essential for the proper assessment and diagnosis of various ocular conditions. Other classifications, such as sympathomimetics, refer to drugs that mimic sympathetic nervous system actions, often leading to pupil dilation through different mechanisms. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are primarily used for pain relief and to reduce inflammation, while antibiotics are designed to combat bacterial infections. None of these categories align with the pharmacological action of tropicamide, reinforcing that it is correctly identified as a parasympatholytic agent.