Ocular reaction to oxprenolol. A case report

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Beta-adrenergic blocking agents are widely prescribed for cardiovascular conditions.
• Oxprenolol is a non-selective beta-blocker used in managing hypertension and angina.
• Adverse drug reactions necessitate vigilant monitoring in clinical practice.

Observation:

• A patient experienced the onset of ocular symptoms and a distinct skin rash after two months of oxprenolol treatment.
• The skin lesions showed improvement following the cessation of oxprenolol therapy.
• Ocular symptoms recurred and worsened upon re-challenge with oxprenolol.

Findings:

• Oxprenolol was identified as the likely causative agent for both the dermatological and ophthalmological adverse events.
• The temporal relationship between drug exposure, withdrawal, and symptom recurrence strongly suggests a causal link.
• This case highlights a potential idiosyncratic reaction to oxprenolol.

Implications:

• Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for ocular and dermatological side effects in patients taking beta-blockers like oxprenolol.
• Careful patient selection and monitoring are crucial when initiating or continuing beta-adrenergic blocking drug therapy.
• Further investigation into the mechanisms of oxprenolol-induced ocular and skin reactions may be warranted.