Medications and Ocular Side Effects Database
(Updated as of June 2009)
The medical model of eye care, integral to the successful incorporation of Healthy Sight Counseling
into routine vision care, stresses the relationship between the eye and the rest of the body. One area where
this relationship is especially important involves potential ocular side effects of the prescription and
non-prescription drugs your patients may be taking. They may also affect ocular comfort leading to such
disorders as dry eye states and allergic blepharoconjunctivitis. On an immediate basis, these side effects
may impact the quantity and the quality of vision. Long-term ocular health issues are of even greater
concern, posing the risk for the development of such vision-threatening ocular diseases as cataract,
glaucoma, keratopathy, optic neuropathy, maculopathy and retinopathy.
As an aid to raise
awareness of the potential adverse ocular effects of medications, we offer this database as an information
resource to eyecare professionals.
The database classifies these medications into three
categories:
- TYPE 1: Drugs That May Affect Quantity of Vision
- TYPE 2: Drugs That May Affect Quality of Vision
- TYPE 3: Drugs That Are Implicated in (a) Ocular Diseases and (b) Disorders
To search our database of ocular effects associated with medications, use the tool below. Can't remember how to spell it? Our smart search function will recommend various medicines based on the letters you enter. Note: Some medications may fall within more than one classification.
Read a new clinical review paper, Ocular Effects Associated with Medication, developed by Siret D. Jaanus, Ph.D.,
professor of ocular pharmacology, Southern California College of Optometry
The information presented
here is intended as general health information and as an educational tool. It is not intended to be used in any
other manner or for any other purpose. The information should not be used or provided to patients in place of a
visit, call or consultation with a physician or other health care provider. Transitions Optical,
Inc. ("Transitions") does not recommend the self-management of health or medical problems, nor does Transitions
promote or recommend any particular form of medical or alternative treatment. People using information accessed
through this website should also research original sources of authority. Information obtained by using this
website is not exhaustive and does not cover all possible interactions among drugs. Should you have any health
care related questions, please call or visit your physician or other health care provider. You should never
disregard medical advice - or delay in seeking it - because of something you have read on this website.
You should always seek prompt medical care for any specific health issue.
RECOMMENDATIONS
For patients taking medications that might impact negatively on Healthy Sight, the opportunity exists to use vision wear to help alleviate adverse effects and reduce risk.
The right vision wear can play an important role in both limiting or compensating for disturbing visual effects of certain drugs (such as photosensitivity) and in decreasing te long-term threat of drug-related ocular disease, particularly through ultraviolet radiation (UVR) protection.
Whether the medications affect Quantity of Vision, Quality of Vision, or are implicated in Ocular Diseases/Disorders, the doctor can create a "customized eyeglass prescription" suited to the individual patient's health and visual needs, specifying the appropriate lens design and lens enhancements.
For example, antireflective coatings and fixed-tint, polarized and photochromic lens treatments are all valuable options that can be incorporated into the "customized eyeglass prescription" to effectively address the potential adverse ocular effects of medication.
It is also important to ensure lenses block 100% of harmful UV. Transitions lenses provide 100% blockage from UVA and UVB radiation. They can also titrate light on demand, promoting good sight and a lifetime of healthy vision in addition to providing improved visual comfort and convenience under variable levels of illumination.
Remind your patients that prolonged UVR exposure may increase their risk of developing cataracts or other conditions that may result in visual impairment.