5 Medications That Can Damage Your Eyes Without Warning

Most people don’t think twice about how their medications might affect their vision. We take pills for blood pressure, infections, or pain, and assume our eyes will stay out of the equation. But the truth is, some common medications can impact your eyes in ways that are subtle at first and serious over time.

In Santa Monica, California, board-certified ophthalmologist E. Joseph Nadji, MD, and our team ensure you have the most up-to-date information to keep your eyes healthy. 

If you're over 40 or taking multiple prescriptions, it’s imperative to pay attention. The eyes are sensitive organs, and certain drugs can quietly cause problems that might go unnoticed until they affect your daily life. 

Here are five medications that can damage your eyes without much warning, and what you can do about them:

Corticosteroids

Doctors often prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. They’re powerful and effective, but they also come with risks, especially when used long-term. Whether taken as eye drops, pills, or inhalers, corticosteroids can raise your risk for cataracts and glaucoma.

Cataracts cloud the lens of your eye. Glaucoma increases pressure inside the eye and can damage the optic nerve. Neither condition always causes pain in the early stages. That’s why regular eye exams are essential if you take these medications consistently. Early detection can prevent severe vision loss.

Antihistamines and allergy medications

If you reach for antihistamines during allergy season, you’re not alone. These medications help calm itchy eyes and runny noses, but they can also reduce tear production, leading to dry eyes, which can cause irritation, blurred vision, and even corneal damage if left untreated.

Dry eye might seem like a minor problem, but over time, it can affect your comfort and clarity. If you use allergy medications often and notice burning or stinging, talk to Dr. Nadji. He may adjust your dosage or recommend eye drops to help relieve symptoms.

Acne medications like isotretinoin

Some acne medications, especially those containing isotretinoin, can affect your eyes in unexpected ways. These drugs reduce the amount of oil produced by glands in your skin, including those in your eyelids. Less oil means your eyes dry out more easily, leading to irritation and blurry vision.

If you take isotretinoin, you may also experience light sensitivity or trouble wearing contact lenses. If you’re on this medication and your eyes feel uncomfortable, don’t ignore it. 

Antidepressants

Certain antidepressants, especially tricyclic antidepressants and SSRIs, can affect how your eyes adjust to light and focus. They may also interfere with tear production and lead to dry eyes. These effects can start mild but may grow more noticeable over time.

If you find that your vision seems blurry or your eyes feel dry while taking an antidepressant, discuss this with Dr. Nadji. It might be possible to adjust your dose or switch medications to something that works better for both your mood and your eyes.

Medications for high blood pressure

Some medications used to treat high blood pressure, such as diuretics and beta-blockers, can also affect the eyes. Diuretics may lead to dry eyes. Beta-blockers, especially when used in eye drop form for glaucoma, can reduce tear production and cause discomfort. In rare cases, blood pressure medications may also cause visual disturbances like blurred vision or double vision.

Be aware of symptoms like dry, itchy eyes or vision that seems off. If anything feels different after starting or adjusting a medication, talk to Dr. Nadji. It's better to check with him than to wait.

Watch for these warning signs

It’s not always obvious when a medication starts affecting your vision. Some signs to look out for include:

• Blurred vision
• Light sensitivity
• Dry or gritty eyes
• Sudden eye pain or pressure
• Trouble focusing

Even if symptoms seem mild, mention them to Dr. Nadji. The sooner you catch a change, the easier it is to manage.

Schedule an eye exam

Medications can be life-changing or even life-saving, but they may also come with side effects that creep in slowly. Your eyes deserve attention just like the rest of your body. If you take any of the medications listed above, make regular eye exams part of your health routine.

Call the office or schedule an appointment online to receive personalized assistance with your eye care.