Are your eyes red, dry, itchy, or watery? Are you dealing with blurred vision? You might blame the weather, your age, or your pet. But don’t overlook another potential cause: the medications you take. Many prescription medications and even a few over-the-counter drugs have side effects that cause eye problems.
Your eyes have a rich blood supply, which makes them vulnerable to side effects from medications. The side effects range from minor, temporary issues—like dryness—to serious, permanent problems—like vision loss. Here’s a look at some commonly prescribed medications that can cause vision issues.
Alendronate (Fosamax)
This belongs to the class of medications referred to as bisphosphonates. It is used to increase bone density in patients with osteoporosis, metastatic cancer of the bone, myeloma bone disease, and Paget’s disease. Fosamax can cause orbital inflammation, scleritis, and uveitis. You may experience eye pain, blurred vision, double vision, and conjunctivitis.
Amiodarone (Cordarone)
This is a medication that helps manage irregular heartbeats, like atrial fibrillation. Even at lower doses, Cordarone is known to cause “vortex keratopathy,” which creates a swirl-like effect on the cornea. Cordarone also causes serious damage to the optic nerve.
Topiramate (Topamax)
Topamax can treat many conditions, including migraines, headaches, seizures, and mood disorders. However, it can cause acute glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve. Also, there are reports of sudden nearsightedness, dilated pupils, and other rare eye complications.
Tamsulosin (Flomax)
This medication is mainly used to treat enlarged-prostate complications. Tamsulosin increases your risk of developing intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS), which can complicate cataract surgery even when you no longer take the medication.
Isotretinoin (Accutane, Absorica)
This is an oral pill that treats acne. It can cause numerous adverse eye effects, including inflammation of the conjunctiva and eyelid, swelling of the optic nerve, and light sensitivity.
Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)
Hydroxychloroquine is used to treat lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune disorders. It can cause corneal deposits and damage to the optic nerve. Hydroxychloroquine is also toxic to the retina. It can cause permanent vision loss, especially for people taking higher doses of the medication.
Meloxicam (Mobic) and Celecoxib (Celebrex)
These are in the category of medications referred to as COX-2 Inhibitors for inflammation and pain. They are known to cause conjunctivitis and blurred vision.
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)
This is an antiestrogen medication used to treat ovarian and breast cancer. It can cause numerous eye issues, including cornea clouding, retinal deposits, loss of visual acuity, and swelling of the macula. Since these symptoms can result in permanent vision loss, regular eye exams are recommended after you start taking Tamoxifen.
Isoniazid (Nydrazid) and Ethambutol (Myambutol)
These are antibiotics prescribed together for the treatment of tuberculosis. They are known to cause decreased peripheral vision and changes in color perception. Also, they may cause optic neuritis, an inflammation that damages the optic nerve.
Get Help with Your Eye Health Today
If you’re taking daily medications and notice any sudden or gradual changes in your vision, see an eye doctor right away. The issue may be stemming from medications you’re taking or have taken in the past. Prompt treatment can protect your vision.
Our ophthalmologist at Pomerance Eye Center, PC is uniquely qualified to determine if your medications are to blame for your eye problems. We can work with your primary doctor to adjust the dose, explore alternative medications, and provide specialized eye care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.