Medications and Supplements Associated With Drug-Induced Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a common condition that damages the optic nerve, usually as a result of an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). It can be divided into two types: open-angle glaucoma (OAG) and acute angle-closure glaucoma (AACG). OAG is believed to occur due to dysfunction in aqueous outflow through the trabecular meshwork (TM) of the eye as it flows from the posterior to the anterior chamber. AACG manifests when a bulging iris blocks the iridocorneal angle, commonly caused by pupillary block due to pupil dilation, leading to fluid buildup and increased IOP, potentially resulting in complete vision loss. As a result of an aging population, chronic conditions are increasing in number, necessitating the use of systemic medications to treat them. However, many of these medications may affect the eye, predisposing it to different ocular morbidities. This narrative review will examine the effects of these medications on glaucoma development, specifically focusing on the effects of corticosteroids on OAG through increased aqueous humor resistance in the TM and the effects of sulfonamides, anticholinergics, antidepressants, cholinergics, anticoagulants, and certain supplements on AACG as a result of their sympathomimetic properties and the disruption of the lens-iris structure.