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Therapies with potential toxicity of neuro-ophthalmic interest

Joseph D Iuorno1, Kevin P Kolostyak, Luis J Mejico

  • 1The Department of Ophthalmology, SUNY Upstate Medical University at Syracuse, Syracuse, New York 13202, USA.

Current Opinion in Ophthalmology
|November 15, 2003
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Certain medications can cause serious neuro-ophthalmic and ophthalmic complications affecting vision. Prompt recognition of these drug-induced visual side effects is crucial for effective patient management.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Neurology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Various therapeutic agents can induce ocular and visual disturbances.
  • Neuro-ophthalmic complications are a significant concern in patients undergoing medical treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent literature on therapies with potential neuro-ophthalmic or ophthalmic complications.
  • To discuss toxic effects of antiepileptic drugs, endocrine drugs, and miscellaneous therapies on ocular function.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies.
  • Analysis of toxic effects of specific drug classes and treatments.

Main Results:

  • Therapies reviewed include antiepileptic drugs, endocrine drugs, intravitreal silicone oil, and TNF-alpha inhibitors.
  • Side effects impact visual pathways from the ciliary body to central visual processing.

Conclusions:

  • Prompt recognition of drug-associated neuro-ophthalmic manifestations is essential.
  • Clinicians must be aware of these potential complications in daily practice.

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