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Ocular toxicity of systemic medications: a case series

T Q To1, J C Townsend

  • 1VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, West Los Angeles Healthcare Center, California, USA.

Optometry (St. Louis, Mo.)
|February 19, 2000
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Systemic medications can cause serious eye problems, but regular monitoring by eye care practitioners can prevent or reduce these risks. Updated guidelines are needed to manage ocular toxicity from common drugs.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pharmacology
  • Clinical Medicine

Background:

  • Long-term systemic medication use can lead to visually threatening conditions.
  • Proactive patient monitoring is crucial for mitigating adverse ocular effects.
  • Current clinical guidelines require updates for monitoring drug-induced ocular toxicity.

Observation:

  • Ocular toxicity has been reported with isoniazid, thioridazine, steroids, and amiodarone.
  • Clinical cases include isoniazid-induced optic neuropathy and steroid-induced glaucoma.
  • Phenothiazine-induced retinopathy and amiodarone-related vortex epitheliopathy are also noted.

Findings:

  • Systemic drugs pose significant risks for ocular health.
  • Specific medications like isoniazid, thioridazine, steroids, and amiodarone are associated with distinct toxicities.
  • Early detection of ocular side effects is possible through vigilant monitoring.

Implications:

  • Eye care practitioners must be aware of potential ocular side effects from systemic drugs.
  • Development of evidence-based monitoring guidelines is essential for optometrists.
  • Implementing updated guidelines can improve patient outcomes and prevent vision loss.

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