Vision Therapy in Fredericksburg

Medications That Can Cause Dry Eyes

(540) 373-3021

Dry Eye Syndrome as a Side Effect

Dry eye syndrome can result from various causes, including certain types of medications that have been identified as potential contributors to this condition. Typically, this occurs as a side effect of the medication's primary purpose.

woman rubbing eyes


Common Medications Associated with Dry Eye Syndrome

woman inspecting medication

Many people may not realize that their drugs can contribute to dry eye symptoms. These medications can affect tear quantity or alter the quality of tear composition.

It's essential to recognize that dry eye can be a potential side effect of various medications. This can go a long way in finding the most appropriate treatment options.

  • Acne Medicine: Retinoids for Severe Acne

    If you're dealing with severe and painful cystic acne, your primary physician may have prescribed retinoid drugs. These medications work by diminishing the production of facial oils, but unfortunately, they can also reduce the amount of lubricating oils in your tears, contributing to dry eyes.

  • Antihistamines for Allergy Relief

    Antihistamine drugs can be vital for allergy sufferers, alleviating symptoms like sneezing, runny noses, and itchy eyes. However, they can have the unintended side effect of reducing tear production, leading to dry eye symptoms.

  • Sleeping Pills, Certain Antidepressants, and Medications for Parkinson's Disease

    Medications in these categories often work by blocking some nerve cell signals. While they may help with their intended purposes, they can also interfere with the signals that stimulate tear production, potentially causing dry eye symptoms.

  • Hypertension Drugs

    Beta-blockers are commonly prescribed to lower blood pressure by blocking the body's response to adrenaline. While they can be effective in this regard, they also slow the heartbeat and reduce the force of blood on arteries. These drugs can also lead to a decrease in aqueous tear production, resulting in dry eye symptoms.

  • Hormones and Birth Control Pills

    Certain hormone pills, particularly estrogen-only formulations, have been linked to dry eye syndrome. These medications can affect tear composition and contribute to dry eye symptoms.

  • Pain Relievers: Over-the-Counter Medications

    Some over-the-counter medications, such as high doses of ibuprofen, may lead to dry eye symptoms. They can decrease tear secretion and cause eye discomfort.


Dealing with Dry Eye-Related Side Effects

While the list of medications above offers some insight into the typical culprits behind dry eye, it's crucial to remember that dry eye symptoms can emerge as an unexpected side effect of various medications or combinations of drugs.

It is important to note that you should never stop taking your prescribed medications without explicit guidance from your healthcare provider. Doing so without professional oversight could result in more severe health problems and may not necessarily alleviate symptoms of dry eyes.

woman adding eye drops

Patient Reviews
4.6
45 Reviews
5
4
3
2
1
- Nov. 09, 2024
Dr. Church is a wonderful doctor. He explains his findings very well and allows time for questions ... and provides thorough explanations. We felt he took his time to examine and care for my husband. We will always return to him!
- Nov. 09, 2024
Excellent experience! Very professional, friendly, and inviting staff. Clean and well kept facility.... Dr. Lambertson diagnosed my eye care needs effectively and was very professional and helpful! I highly recommend Premier Eyecare
- Nov. 05, 2024
Competent professional service. Dr Church and the staff at Premier Eyecare are great!
- Nov. 05, 2024
What a relief to finally find a doctor who knows their stuff and cares enough to do things right!
- Nov. 01, 2024
If you want the BEST of the BEST, Dr. Bradley Church is the doctor you need to choose.
- Oct. 24, 2024
Professional Patient, play, and attends to all your needs
- Oct. 05, 2024
Doctors and staff members at Premier Eyecare are amazing!!
- Sep. 26, 2024
Extremely pleased with service for many years!
- Sep. 16, 2024
Good service.
- Sep. 08, 2024
I love my new glasses
- Sep. 03, 2024
Justin at Premier eyecare, is a professional, along with Dr Church, are a great team and represent e... xceptional customer service!! Dr.Brown
- Aug. 28, 2024
Dr. Tsai is the best there is! She is so patient with my son and attentive to his needs.
- Apr. 06, 2023
Great customer service, knowledgeable staff. First class operation!!Dr. Stephanie is awesome!!

View All 45 Reviews

Dry Eyes in Fredericksburg

Our optometry practice in Fredericksburg

Photograph of Angela  Tsai
Hours
  • Monday 7:45 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 7:45 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 7:45 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 7:45 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 7:45 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Cigna
  • Humana
  • Medicare
  • VSP

woman with sore eyes

Dry Eye Management and Treatment

If you find yourself experiencing dry eye symptoms in connection with your medication regimen, the most prudent course of action is to promptly seek consultation with both your eye specialist and primary care physician.

This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, enabling healthcare professionals to determine the best course of action to manage and alleviate dry eye-related side effects.

At Premier Eyecare, Angela Tsai, O.D. and Associates, we'll evaluate your condition and medical history to determine the underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan. Take the first step towards a healthier you—schedule an appointment today and let us guide you on the path to wellness!

(540) 373-3021