These days many people attending for an eye examination will routinely have a few drops of tropicamide 0.5% instilled into each eye. This results in the pupils becoming somewhat larger than normal.
Larger pupils allow the ophthalmic optician (optometrist) a much better view of the inside of the eye. This is particularly useful in those aged sixty and over.
The drops take about 10 minutes approx. to work and around six hours to wear off. Very occasionally the effects may linger until the next day. Some people report that the dilated pupils make them a little more sensitive to light especially if it is a sunny day. And the vision may be slightly blurred. It is recommended that driving should be avoided whilst your vision is affected.
It is most unlikely that you will experience any unusual side effects from the instillation of tropicamide. (Such as pain or redness in or around the eyes). However if you do please contact the practice as soon as possible.