What is a primary use of cycloplegic agents?

Cycloplegic agents are primarily used to prevent accommodation, which is the process that allows the eye to focus on near objects. These agents work by temporarily paralyzing the ciliary muscle, which controls the shape of the lens within the eye. This paralysis prevents the lens from changing shape to focus on close objects, effectively halting the process of accommodation.

This temporary inability to focus can be particularly useful during certain eye examinations or surgeries, as it allows for better visualization of the interior of the eye without interference from the eye's natural focus adjustment mechanisms. Additionally, cycloplegic agents can relieve discomfort caused by spasticity of the ciliary muscle or can be used in the management of certain eye conditions.

While cycloplegic agents do cause pupil dilation, this effect is a secondary result of the relaxation of the ciliary muscle rather than their primary purpose. Similar reasoning applies to other options that suggest treating infections or providing analgesic effects, as those functions are not the main use of cycloplegic agents.