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Non-hormonal systemic medications and dry eye.
John Wong1, Wanwen Lan, Li Ming Ong
1Department of Ophthalmology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore.
The Ocular Surface
|October 26, 2011
Summary
Many common medications for chronic illnesses can cause or worsen dry eye syndrome, particularly in elderly patients. Adjusting drug dosage or switching medications may alleviate this condition, aiding patient management.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Dry eye syndrome is a prevalent condition, often exacerbated by systemic medications.
- Elderly patients with chronic illnesses frequently use multiple drugs that can impact ocular surface health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify systemic medications contributing to dry eye syndrome.
- To inform healthcare providers about drug-induced dry eye for improved patient care.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of drugs associated with dry eye.
- Analysis of medication classes implicated in dry eye development.
Main Results:
- Anticholinergic drugs (antidepressants, antipsychotics, anti-Parkinson's, antihistamines) are significant contributors.
- Other implicated drugs include anti-acne preparations and antihypertensives.
- Adverse effects are often dose-dependent.
Conclusions:
- Awareness of causative medications is crucial for managing dry eye.
- Dosage reduction or therapeutic substitution can mitigate drug-induced dry eye.
- Ophthalmologists and physicians can optimize dry eye management by considering patient medication regimens.
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