Vision Therapy in Pittsburgh

Medications That Can Cause Dry Eyes

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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
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245 Reviews
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- Dec. 06, 2024
Dr. Duncan is a wonderful OD. He performed a thorough exam and explained everything. Denise has be... en my great optician for years. She can quickly assess what shape/style/color frame works with my face shape and hair color. And her recommendations are always spot on. She is wonderful.
- Dec. 03, 2024
Would highly recommend. Staff is very nice and professional.
- Oct. 28, 2024
The staff were excellent and I felt my exam was very thorough. My new glasses are great!
- Sep. 13, 2024
Would give 10 stars if I could! Got me in the next day, the doctor was beyond great but holy cow the... receptionist Jessica (I hope I’m remembering that correctly — worked until closing on 9/12) was amazing!! Definitely coming back in the future just for her. She stayed after closing to help me find the perfect frame, didn’t judge me for how many pair I needed to try on, and made sure I understood the cost breakdown and all that good stuff before leaving. Very happy & can’t wait to rock my new pair of glasses.
- Jul. 18, 2024
The real difference in Eyetique is in their service: (a) I didn't realize that if their glasses don'... t work for you within the first 30 days ... Eyetique replaces them at no charge. (b) The Eyetique eye exams are more accurate and more thorough than others = better seeing experience. And (c) I always allow the sales associate to pick my eyeglass solution for me - after all - they are the 'doctors' in this situation. Eyetique - I find your service amazingly undervalued ... congrats ... you are the greatest!!!
- May. 03, 2024
I love the remodel as well as the staff. They are really friendly with great customer service. I’m... also able to take my younger children there as well which is a great plus. They always make us feel welcome 🤗
- Apr. 09, 2024
Great staff fabulous/ A + product !
- Mar. 12, 2024
The young guy that helped me was awesome!
- Mar. 07, 2024
Sophia is absolutely awesome.
- Feb. 10, 2024
First time coming here. The first time was good, friendly, professional. Help me pick out my frame... s.second time I went to pick up glasses, they were an little stand off. I got an stuck up vibe from them. But other then that it was good.
- Jan. 24, 2024
Extremely welcoming staff. Dr Wooste has excellent bedside manner! 10’s across the board!
- Dec. 19, 2023
The staff at Wilkins is exceptional and spot on with suggestions. They are extremely helpful and c... ourteous, and they make you feel like family. We have been going here for years and have never had a bad experience!
- Nov. 27, 2023
My daughter and I had a great experience at Eyetique! The staff was friendly and efficient. Thank yo... u!
- Nov. 22, 2023
They remodeled since I was in last. Very nice, not cosy but crisp, professional with a stylish flare... . I f my insurance did not cover a healthy chunk for glasses would not be able to afford this place. Good docs and staff, I tell everyone I know who's looking for an eye doc or just glasses, to check this place. Pick your style, they probably have or can get. I'm getting a different color frame than was available in the style I wanted, but the color was available from the manufacturer. So I'm getting the color and shape I want. Simple but it makes me happy. And who doesn't like new glasses for the holidays?
- Oct. 27, 2023
I just went here today and every staff member was great. Never seen people work so well together to... deliver a patient needs. I never had a bad eye doctor visit but this was by far the best one. Thanks again.
- Oct. 19, 2023
My family has been going to this location for over 15 years. Everyone is very personable and patient... . Denise is wonderful and will only recommend frames that fit your face and not based off of the price. I highly recommend!
- Oct. 13, 2023
Polite and professional.
- Jun. 21, 2023
Very experienced, friendly and knowledgeable staff.
- Mar. 13, 2023
The Doctor and Staff are incredibly kind and patient. They took every care to make sure my prescript... ion was right and the frames I picked looked great.
- Dec. 18, 2022
Great customer service from the person who helped me select frames.

View All 245 Reviews

Dry Eyes in Pittsburgh

Our optometry practice in Pittsburgh

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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 Eyetique - Wilkins, 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!

(412) 825-5300