How long do dilating drops last?
Dilating eye drops used for examination of the eye can last from 4 to 24 hours, depending upon the strength of the drop and upon the individual patient. Children require stronger and longer lasting drops than do adults to accurately measure refractive error. Weaker drops are used for premature babies and neonates. Dilating eye drops are occasionally used to treat certain eye diseases, such as amblyopia and inflammation in the eye. These therapeutic dilating drops (atropine and homatropine) may have a longer duration of action, even up to 2 weeks. Despite the longer duration of action, daily administration of the drop may be necessary for treatment.
