Vision Therapy in Providence

Medications That Can Cause Dry Eyes

(401) 331-2020

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
4.3
770 Reviews
5
4
3
2
1
- Jul. 26, 2024
The eye doctors are awesome there staff needs to be completely fired or retrained
- Jul. 20, 2024
Excellent service, wonderful people there😄
- Jul. 11, 2024
The doctor is the best
- Jul. 09, 2024
Very caring and professional staff.
- Jul. 02, 2024
All of my questions were answered, and I didn't feel rushed.
- Jul. 01, 2024
I have a wonderful experience since day one in Advance Eye Care .Me and my family come here for over... 2 years now ,I highly recommend this place .
- Jun. 20, 2024
Five stars!! From the front desk staff to the doctor, the people make it well worthwhile. A stellar ... experience all around!
- Jun. 14, 2024
I been seeing dr cox for years I even transferred my 10 year old son to see him. I have never had an... y issues with him he’s very nice. The only problem I have had with advanced is my last visit I waited over a hour past my time to get seen and I can never get a hold of the eye glass part about my glasses
- Jun. 11, 2024
Dr. Abdoulaye Wann is highly thoughtful and professional. He clearly explained all the procedures an... d answered all of my questions with great care. He is an excellent optometrist!
- May. 11, 2024
Great an amazing experience.
- Apr. 29, 2024
Great
- Apr. 17, 2024
Wonderful place, nice people, superior service.
- Apr. 12, 2024
Excellent quality service 💯 percent
- Mar. 25, 2024
Everyone is very friendly. Got seen very quickly.
- Mar. 05, 2024
Dr. Wanna and his crew are the best,! Always friendly and professional. Highly recommended!!!
- Feb. 28, 2024
Very friendly and professional
- Feb. 13, 2024
Always great seeing and visiting Advanced Eye Care… since I was 8 years old !
- Dec. 13, 2023
Doctor was very knowledgeable
- Nov. 08, 2023
Great facility. Very thorough?
- Nov. 03, 2023
I really like this vision center. My optometrist (Dr. Arias) is very knowledgeable and thorough, and... all the staff with whom I've interacted have been friendly and efficient.

View All 770 Reviews

Dry Eyes in Providence

Our optometry practice in Providence

Photograph of Carl  Corrow
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am - 1:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • EyeMed
  • UMR
  • Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
  • Neighborhood Health Plan

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 Advanced Eye Care 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!

(401) 331-2020