Which type of drug is known to dilate the pupil?

Mydriatic drugs are specifically designed to cause dilation of the pupils, a process known as mydriasis. These medications work by affecting the muscles of the iris, either by blocking the action of the sphincter muscle (which constricts the pupil) or by stimulating the dilator muscle. This property is essential in various ophthalmic procedures, allowing better visualization of the interior structures of the eye, such as during an eye examination or surgical procedures.

Understanding the role of different types of drugs helps clarify their functions: miotic drugs, in contrast, are used to constrict the pupil; anesthetics may provide numbness to the surface of the eye, and antihistamines are primarily used to treat allergies and do not have a direct effect on pupil size. Thus, the distinction of mydriatics as pupil dilators underscores their vital role in ocular health and surgical practice.