Medications with Ocular Risks
At Gulfcoast Eye Care, we are frequently asked by primary care physicians and specialists to examine patients to monitor for signs of toxicity or for eye side effects of some of various medications. While this is not an all-inclusive list, here are several medications for which you should consider having regular eye examinations:
Bisphosphonates
Pamidronate Disodium (Aredia), Alendronic Acid (Fosamax), Ibandronate, Zolendronate (Zometa), Risedronate Sodium (Actonel), Clodronate (Bonefos), Etidronate Disodium (Didrocal), Olpadronate
- used most commonly to prevent bone resorption; has been associated with anterior uveitis, scleritis, and nonspecific conjunctivitis.
Ethambutol (Myambutol)
An antibiotic medication that is commonly used to treat tuberculosis or other mycobacterial lung infections; this medication can be associated with optic nerve damage and requires regular monitoring to avoid this risk.
Fingolimod (Gilenya)
Used to most commonly to treat multiple sclerosis (MS); has been associated with macular edema. A baseline eye examination is recommended as well as 3 to 4 months after starting treatment or if vision changes are noticed.
Hydroxychloroquine/Chloroquine (Plaquenil)
Used most commonly for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, dermatological conditions, & inflammatory disorders. Chloroquine is used for antimalarial treatment.
Sildenafil (Viagra,Tadalafil (Cialis), Vardanafil (Levitra)
Used most commonly in the management of erectile dysfunction; has been associated with changes in color perception (most commonly a bluish color tinge), rare reported cases of Non-Arteritic Ischemic Optic Neuropathy.
Statins
Used to treat high cholesterol levels; these medications can be associated with double vision or drooping of your eyelids.
Steroids
These medications are used extensively to treat asthma, emphysema, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis and many other disorders. If you take these medications, you should have your eyes checked regularly to screen for problems such as glaucoma and cataracts that can occur in patients taking steroid medications.
Tamsulosin (Flomax)
Most commonly used for treatment of an enlarged prostate or urinary retention; can be associated with intraoperative risks during cataract surgery such as Floppy Iris Syndrome. Fortunately, Dr. Manning has vast experience with performing cataract surgery on patients taking this medication and those who have Floppy Iris Syndrome.
Topiramate (Topamax)
Used most commonly to treat epilepsy and migraine headaches; has been associated with angle closure glaucoma.
Herbal Medicines & Nutritional Supplements
The following have been associated with ocular side effects: Canthaxanthine, Chamomile, Datura, Echinacea purpurea, Gingko biloba, Licorice, Niacin, Vitamin A
If you are taking any of these medications, be sure to schedule a consultation with one of our eye specialists to help ensure that your eyes remain healthy.
To Schedule an Appointment please contact us.
Driving Directions
Dr. Manning proudly offers LASIK surgery and other eye care services to those traveling from nearby communities. For your convenience, we have provided driving directions from the following cities: