Can That Medicine Affect My Eyes?

Yes, Medications Can Affect Your Eyes: Here is What You Should Know

Many people do not realize that numerous medications—whether prescription, over-the-counter, or even herbal—can have side effects that impact the eyes. Because your eyes are highly sensitive and have many tiny blood vessels and nerves, certain drugs can cause changes in vision, dryness, light sensitivity, or even more serious complications.

At Visualeyes Optometry, we often see patients whose eye symptoms are related to the medications they take. Knowing what to look for can help you catch potential side effects early and protect your vision.

How Can Medications Affect the Eyes?

Medications can affect the eyes in a variety of ways, depending on how they interact with your body. Some cause temporary changes, such as dryness or blurred vision, while others may lead to more permanent effects if not detected early.

Common mechanisms include:

• Reducing tear production, leading to dry eye symptoms

• Affecting the retina or optic nerve, which can impact vision clarity or color perception

• Causing changes in pupil size or focusing ability

• Increasing eye pressure, which can trigger or worsen glaucoma

Because many eye-related side effects develop gradually, regular eye exams are essential for anyone taking long-term medication.

Common Medications That Can Affect the Eyes

Here’s a list of some medications and how they can influence your eye health:

💊 Corticosteroids

Used for: Inflammation, Allergies, Asthma, Arthritis, Autoimmune diseases

Examples: Prednisone, Hydrocortisone, Inhalers, Steroid eye drops

Possible eye effects:

• Increased risk of glaucoma

• Cataract formation with long-term use

• Delayed healing after eye surgery or injury

💊Anti-Hypertensives (High Blood Pressure Meds)

Used for: High blood pressure

Examples: Tenormen, Metoprolol (Lopressor), Propranolol (Inderal)

Possible eye effects:

• Dry eyes due to reduced tear production

• Light sensitivity

💊 Antihistamines & Decongestants

Used for: Allergies, Sinus congestion, Colds

Examples: Loratadine (Claritin), Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), Cetirazin (Zyrtec), Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)

Possible eye effects:

• Dry eyes due to reduced tear production

• Pupil dilation and light sensitivity

💊 Antidepressants & Anti-anxiety Medications

Used for: Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders

Examples: SSRIs (such as Prozac, Zoloft), Tricyclic antidepressants (such as Elavil). Alprazolam (Xanax), Diazepam (Valium), Lorazepam (Ativan)

Possible eye effects:

• Dry eyes

• Blurred vision, double vision, or difficulty focusing

• In rare cases, angle-closure glaucoma

💊 Birth Control Pills & Hormone Therapy

Used for: Contraception, Hormone replacement

Possible eye effects:

• Dry eye symptoms due to hormonal changes

• Blurred vision

• Small increased risk of blood vessel changes in the retina

💊 Accutane (Isotretinoin)

Used for: Severe acne

Possible eye effects:

• Significant dry eye and irritation

• Light sensitivity

• Rarely, corneal inflammation or scarring

💊 Ritalin (Methylphenidate)

Used for: Attention disorders

Possible eye effects:

• Blurred vision

• Dilated Pupils

💊 Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine) & Chloroquine

Used for: Lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, Autoimmune diseases

Possible eye effects:

• Blurred vision

• Retinal toxicity, which can cause permanent vision loss if not detected early

• Requires regular retinal screening every 6–12 months

💊 Amiodarone

Used for: Irregular heart rhythms

Possible eye effects:

• Corneal deposits (visible on exam but usually not vision-threatening)

• Optic nerve damage in rare cases

💊 Tamoxifen

Used for: Breast cancer treatment and prevention

Possible eye effects:

• Retinal deposits or swelling

• Decreased visual clarity over time

💊 Diuretics (Water Pills)

Used for: High blood pressure, Heart failure, Kidney disease

Examples: Hydrochlorothiazide, Furosemide (Lasix)

Possible eye effects:

• Dry eye from decreased tear production

• Blurred vision

• Occasionally, temporary nearsightedness (myopia)

💊 Topiramate (Topamax)

Used for: Seizures, Migraines, Mood stabilization

Possible eye effects:

• Sudden angle-closure glaucoma (a medical emergency)

• Blurred vision or eye pain

💊 Tamsulosin (Flomax)

Used for: Prostate enlargement

Possible eye effects:

• Causes Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS), which can complicate cataract surgery

• Important to inform your eye surgeon before surgery if you take this medication

💊 Scopolamine Patch

Used for: Motion sickness

Possible eye effects:

• Blurred vision

• Dilated Pupils

💊 Herbal Supplements

Possible eye effects:

• Ginkgo biloba can cause bleeding inside and on the white of the eye.

• St. John's wort can cause light sensitivity.

• Valerian root can cause blurred vision.

This list does not include all of the medications that can cause eye problems.

What Patients Should Do

• Never stop taking medication without consulting your doctor.

• Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams—especially if you are on long-term medication or have chronic health conditions.

• Tell your optometrist about all medications and supplements you are taking, including over-the-counter ones. If they find problems in your vision or eye health, they will consult with your medical doctor to determine the next step. Generally, your medical doctors can change or adjust your medications to work without side effects for your eyes.

• Report any new symptoms such as blurred vision, dryness, pain, flashes of light, or color changes immediately.

Protecting Your Vision While Staying Healthy

Your medications are important for your overall health—but so is your vision. By staying proactive and working closely with your optometrist, you can manage both safely.

At Visualeyes Optometry, we work with your medical team to monitor your eye health and detect any early changes caused by medications. Regular eye exams are the best way to ensure your eyes stay as healthy as the rest of you. If we haven't seen you in awhile, schedule your appointment today!