Ophthalmology
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Phenylephrine hydrochloride is a potent, effective, relatively safe drug with few ocular side effects. Side effects from topical instillation are uncommon but include severe systemic cardiovascular effects with elevated blood pressure and stroke. ⋯ A 2.5% concentration is generally indicated for ophthalmic examination as well as for use in infants and in the elderly. Phenylephrine should not be used in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, and it is also contraindicated in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants.