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Influence of systemic administrated beta-blockers on tear secretion
Annals of Ophthalmology
|August 1, 1984
Summary
Adrenergic beta-blockers affect tear flow. Propranolol, an unselective antagonist, reduced tear secretion, while oxprenolol did not significantly alter it due to its sympathomimetic properties.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Tear secretion is crucial for maintaining ocular surface health.
- Lacrimal flow is regulated by both parasympathetic and sympathetic (beta-adrenergic) nervous systems.
- Adrenergic beta-blockers are commonly used medications with potential ocular side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pharmacologic effects of adrenergic beta-blockers on tear flow.
- To differentiate between the effects of selective and unselective beta-blockers on lacrimation.
- To understand the role of beta-adrenergic nerves in tear secretion.
Main Methods:
- The Schirmer test was employed to measure tear secretion.
- Tear flow was evaluated in 96 patients and 66 control subjects.
- Pharmacologic effects of propranolol and oxprenolol on lacrimation were assessed.
Main Results:
- Propranolol, an unselective beta-adrenergic antagonist, significantly decreased tear flow.
- Oxprenolol, exhibiting intrinsic sympathomimetic activity, did not significantly reduce lacrimal secretion.
- These findings highlight differential effects of beta-blockers on tear production.
Conclusions:
- Beta-adrenergic pathways play a significant role in regulating tear secretion.
- Unselective beta-blockers like propranolol can impair lacrimation.
- Oxprenolol's sympathomimetic activity may mitigate its effect on tear flow, suggesting potential for use in patients with dry eye concerns.