Vision Therapy in Rigden Farm

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.

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Common Medications Associated with Dry Eye Syndrome

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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.

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Patient Reviews
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371 Reviews
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- Mar. 28, 2025
Greeted and accepted as a new client in a timely manner. New prescription and glasses provided.
- Mar. 25, 2025
Friendly, knowledgeable and professional staff located in a convenient and pleasant office.
- Mar. 20, 2025
Great and friendly staff!
- Mar. 18, 2025
Staff is very professional and efficient. Office is clean and pleasant.
- Mar. 08, 2025
Friendly staff good service and explained the process
- Mar. 08, 2025
Staff are friendly, professional, & knowledgeable. Extremely happy with the care I received.
- Mar. 04, 2025
Amazing work . Fantastic service
- Mar. 03, 2025
I’ve been seeing Dr. Kelly, She is great and and caring. She takes time to answer all my questions... . SHAE was very helpful, helping me choose my glasses, showing me the differences and explaining insurance benefits to me. Highly recommend her to help you when you’re there.
- Feb. 24, 2025
Everyone I encountered was very very pleasant and helpful. It was a great experience. It was quick y... et I didn’t feel rushed at all. Doctor and tech were great. The lady helping me pick my frames was absolutely lovely and patient with me. And I’m finally getting the rx I’ve needed. My highest recommendations.
- Feb. 05, 2025
Great place!
- Feb. 05, 2025
Our whole family has seen Dr. Kelly for a number of years now! She is kind, caring, and patient. She... does a wonderful job with the kids and takes her time explaining all that she needs to. Highly recommended Mountain View Eye Specialists!
- Jan. 31, 2025
Excellent service - everyone was very friendly and very helpful! I love my glasses!
- Jan. 25, 2025
Most courteous and knowledgeable staff anywhere. They should be the blueprint for every customer bas... ed company within any industry.
- Dec. 28, 2024
Thanks for providing excellent service!
- Dec. 27, 2024
I've been to several eye doctors in Fort Collins, and my eyes found their home at Mountain View. The... staff is so friendly, and the docs know their stuff! I recently stepped on my glasses, put them on the coffee table where my dog tasted the ear piece and mangled it. Megan was so kind and patient in fixing my glasses and spent time adjusting the fit until it worked for me. I've always felt welcomed and valued here!
- Dec. 12, 2024
Kristy was so helpful with selecting the right frames for my face and optimal appearance. This is my... first time wearing glasses and she helped me with proper fitting and how to maximize my viewing. Overall I'd recommend Kristy and Mountain View Eye Specialists to anyone looking for a great experience!
- Dec. 03, 2024
I really appreciate that Dr. Amy considers all health issues that might effect my eyes and eyesight.... Viewed as a whole person at this eye doctor's office 🙂
- Oct. 11, 2024
I was recommended to transfer my eye care here and it was a great recommendation! Office staff is fr... iendly and attentive and Dr. German is clearly very knowledgeable. Will definitely continue being a patient here!
- Oct. 04, 2024
Staff is very friendly and Dr. Kelly is amazing.
- Aug. 09, 2024
Office has high-tech equipment and knowledgeable staff. Dr. Gregory Abel is very pleasant, and extre... mely good at both vision assessment and identifying potential diseases. After age 40, an annual check-up is highly recommended.

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Dry Eyes in Rigden Farm

Our optometry practice in Rigden Farm

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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 Mountain View Eye Specialists, 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!

(970) 224-9880