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Drug-Induced Ocular Hypertension and Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Badri P Badhu1, Balkrishna Bhattarai, Himal P Sangraula
1From the *Ophthalmology, †Anesthesiology and Critical Care, and ‡Clinical Pharmacology departments, B. P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Sunsari, Nepal.
Summary
Many common medications can cause ocular hypertension and glaucoma, leading to vision loss. Understanding these drug side effects is crucial for prevention and maintaining quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Ocular hypertension and glaucoma are significant causes of vision loss.
- Medications prescribed by various medical specialties can contribute to these conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on drugs known to induce ocular hypertension and glaucoma.
- To identify common medications with the potential to cause these adverse ocular effects.
Main Methods:
- Conducted an electronic literature search of PubMed and Google up to 2011.
- Used search terms "drug induced ocular hypertension" and "drug induced glaucoma".
- Included English-language articles and translations.
Main Results:
- A substantial number of frequently prescribed drugs can induce ocular hypertension or glaucoma.
- Identified drug classes include parasympatholytics, steroids, anticholinergics, adrenergics, antidepressants, cholinomimetics, antineoplastics, antipsychotics, antiparkinsonism agents, H1/H2 blockers, botulinum toxin, cardiac agents, anticoagulants, silicone oil, sulfa drugs, and anesthetics.
Conclusions:
- Physicians should be aware of the potential for drug-induced ocular hypertension and glaucoma.
- Rational prescribing and understanding potential adverse effects can prevent vision loss and improve patient quality of life.
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