Which drug is a powerful mydriatic and cycloplegic that can take up to two weeks to wear off?

The correct answer is Atropine, which is known for its potent mydriatic (pupil-dilating) and cycloplegic (paralysis of the ciliary muscle, causing loss of accommodation) effects. Atropine is derived from the Atropa belladonna plant and is used in ophthalmology to dilate the pupils for examination or treatment purposes.

One of the distinguishing features of Atropine is its duration of action. While other mydriatic and cycloplegic agents often have shorter effects, Atropine can last much longer, with some patients experiencing effects that may take up to two weeks to fully wear off. This extended duration is particularly useful in certain clinical situations where prolonged pupil dilation is desired, but it can also lead to challenges in managing patient activities and vision during the recovery period.

In contrast, other options like Homatropine, Cyclopentolate, and Tropicamide have relatively shorter durations of action. Homatropine typically lasts for about 1 to 3 days, Cyclopentolate lasts around 24 hours, and Tropicamide usually works for less than 6 hours. Thus, while all these agents can cause mydriasis, Atrop