Tropicamide-Induced Supraventricular Tachycardia During an Eye Exam

It is a well-established fact that commonly used ophthalmic medications have cardiovascular repercussions. Ophthalmologists are often aware of these effects as topical ophthalmic solutions are capable of producing severe cardiovascular side effects, including congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, and death. Cases such as this should be reported more in the world of medicine, as the adverse effects of medications not routinely used in the medical clinic can frequently get overlooked. The ophthalmic preparations are predominantly used to either facilitate diagnosis through mydriasis or treat glaucoma. Tropicamide is one such ophthalmic agent that is a short-acting cycloplegic and is commonly used to induce pupillary dilation through ciliary muscle paralysis for ophthalmic examinations. We present to you a rare case of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) triggered by the use of Tropicamide ophthalmic solution during an eye exam in the outpatient setting.