Can Medications Cause Dry Eyes?

Among the varied causes of dry eye, several types of medication have been found to cause dry eye. This is generally due to side effects of whatever the medication was designed to do.

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Can Medications Cause Dry Eyes? Videos

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Antidepressants, Parkinson’s Medication, and Sleeping Pills

What this list of medications have in common is that they block some of the signals between nerve cells. While this can be helpful for people suffering from Parkinson's or depression, this can also lead to the medication blocking signals that would help tell the eyes to make more tears.

It should be noted that this mechanism only applies to tricyclic antidepressants, not SSRIs. Though, SSRIs can also cause dry eye.

Birth Control and other Hormone-Affecting Medication

Hormonal changes are very closely linked to dry eye (it is the reason women, particularly women over the age of 50, are more likely to have dry eye.) As such, medications which affect hormones, such as birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy treatments for menopause, cause dry eye.

Women who only take estrogen have been found to be far more likely to suffer from dry eye than women who take both estrogen and progesterone.

At present, doctors are unsure exactly why hormonal changes cause dry eye, but one theory is that it can affect how much water is in the tears.

Acne Medicine

Acne medication such as isotretinoin can also cause dry eye. They help get rid of acne by lowering the amount of oil produced by certain glands. Because this effect can extend to glands in the eyelids, it can lead to less oil in your tears. If there is insufficient oil in your tears, it can lead to them evaporating too quickly, which will lead to dry eyes.

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Blood Pressure Medication

A very common type of blood pressure medication, beta blockers, work by blocking the body’s response to the hormone adrenaline. This helps correct blood pressure by slowing the heartbeat, and reducing the force the blood puts on the arteries. However, a side effect of this is that the body then produces less of the proteins which go into the tears. This in turn leads to fewer tears, and dry eye.

Beta-blocker medications also lower the normal pressure in the eyes, which can reduce the water content in the tears and lead to dryness.

Another type of blood pressure medication, diuretics, which help rid the body of salt and water, but also negatively impact tear composition.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are commonly used to control allergy symptoms, but in the process they can diminish the aqueous layer of the tear film and leave the eyes with insufficient moisture.

Painkillers

Many commonly used painkillers fall under the NSAID category (non-steroid anti inflammatory drugs). While inflammation is a symptom of dry eye, these drugs do not reduce the likelihood of that, and can exacerbate the damage dry eye already causes.

Herbal Supplements

The three most common supplements that can cause dry eye are niacin, echinacea, and kava.

What Should You Do If Your Medication is Causing Dry Eye?

If you think your medicine is causing dry eyes, don't abruptly stop its intake. These drugs often cater to critical ailments and sudden cessation can have detrimental consequences.

Your optimal step is to consult with our optometrist. Reach out to your eye doctor for expert advice. Our eye care professional may suggest lowering the dosage—some drugs might cause less dry eye at reduced quantities. They could also prescribe an alternate medication for the same issue which won't induce dry eye.

Furthermore, based on your dry eye severity, you might be advised to use artificial tears to mitigate symptoms while still on the current medication.

How can I find an eye doctor near me?

If you don’t already have a trusted optometrist, you could start your online search by typing in phrases such as "eye doctor near me," "optometrist near me," or "dry eye specialist near me."

What Other Medications Can Cause Dry Eye?

Diuretics: These medications are often prescribed for high blood pressure or heart conditions. They work by causing the body to lose excess water and salt through urination, which can potentially lead to dryness, including in the eyes.

Decongestants: These medications, often used for colds and allergies, can dry out the mucous membranes, including the tear film of the eyes.

Chemotherapy Drugs: Some chemotherapy drugs can cause dry eye syndrome as a side effect.

Retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives, often used for skin conditions like acne and psoriasis, can cause dry eyes and other issues.

Radiation Therapy: Not a medication, but it's worth noting that radiation treatments, especially those targeting the head and neck, can cause dry eye syndrome.

Hypnotics: Certain types of sleeping aids can cause dryness of the mucous membranes, leading to dry eyes.

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Common Questions

Why do medications cause dry eye?

Medications can cause dry eyes through several mechanisms. Some drugs, like antihistamines and antidepressants, affect the nervous system's ability to produce tears. Others, like diuretics and certain blood pressure medications, alter the body's fluid balance, reducing tear production. Certain acne medications reduce oil production, which can disrupt the tear film that keeps eyes moisturized. When you consult your eye care professional, they can provide detailed information on how specific medications might cause dry eyes.

Can pills cause dry eyes?

Yes, certain oral medications can cause dry eyes. These include some types of antidepressants, blood pressure medications, antihistamines, diuretics, sleeping pills, and hormone treatments. It's always recommended to discuss any side effects, including dry eyes, with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

What vitamins cause dry eyes?

Most vitamins don't typically cause dry eyes. However, excessive use of certain supplements like niacin (Vitamin B3) might cause eye-related issues. Generally, vitamins and supplements are part of a balanced diet, which is crucial for overall eye health.

What deficiency causes dry eyes?

Deficiencies in essential fatty acids, especially Omega-3 and Omega-6, can contribute to dry eyes by disrupting tear composition and stability. Vitamin A and D deficiencies might also lead to dry eyes. It's crucial to maintain a balanced diet or take supplements as advised by a healthcare professional.

What vitamins stop dry eye?

Certain vitamins and minerals, particularly Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin A, and Vitamin D, can help alleviate dry eyes. Omega-3s help improve the oily layer of the tear film, while Vitamin A and D are essential for overall eye health and function.

What vitamin keeps eyes moist?

Vitamin A plays a key role in maintaining eye moisture. It supports the health of the cornea, the clear front surface of your eye, and the conjunctiva, a thin membrane that covers the inside of your eyelids and the white part of the eyeball.

What pills are good for dry eyes?

Omega-3 fatty acid supplements, which help support the oily layer of the tear film, can be beneficial for dry eyes. Additionally, doctors might prescribe oral antibiotics like doxycycline to reduce inflammation and improve dry eye symptoms. Always consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.

What foods are bad for dry eyes?

Food high in sodium can lead to dehydration and subsequently dry eyes. Also, those rich in Omega-6 fatty acids, such as certain vegetable oils, may exacerbate dry eye symptoms if not balanced with sufficient Omega-3 intake.

Can low vitamin D cause dry eyes?

Yes, low vitamin D levels might lead to dry eyes. Vitamin D plays a role in tear production and inflammation regulation. Studies have found that people with vitamin D deficiency have a higher risk of dry eye syndrome. Regular exposure to sunlight or taking vitamin D supplements can help maintain adequate levels.

Summary

There are many common types of medication which can cause dry eye. If you suspect your medication is causing dry eye, do not stop taking it right away; instead, schedule an appointment to speak with a doctor about what you can do about the problem. If you would like to see a doctor to discuss what to do about a medication that is causing dry eye, you can reach out to your nearest Amplify EyeCare practice either via a call or in-person visit. Our team of eye care professionals is ready and equipped to provide you with the care you need.