A method for optimizing vision by topically administering an ophthalmic formulation in aqueous solution comprising a sterile aqueous carrier including an ophthalmic artificial tear solution, and a pharmaceutically active compound consisting essentially of phentolamine in a therapeutically effective amount to contract a pupil of a human patients eye in dim light so that the pupil is effectively reduced by 1.0 mm or more to improve vision in dim light and further to minimize eye redness.
