Vision Therapy in Orlando

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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- Mar. 24, 2025
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!!
- Mar. 18, 2025
My entire service was great. From check in, to testing (awesome upgraded machines), the doctor aweso... me. The staff - super. Every single person there was eager to help & very informational to all questions, concerns & options.
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I've been going to this eye clinic 25 years. They are the best!
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I have been going here for over 10 years. The staff is wonderful very professional and treat you lik... e family always accommodating.
- Mar. 10, 2025
The doctor and entire staff are very professional and friendly. This is my second year as a customer... with Orlando Eye Care and I’m am truly satisfied with the quality of my glasses and the quality of care!
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I had a great experience with Orlando Eyecare. The Doctor and staff are professional. I can see so m... uch better than I did before. I recommend them with no reservations.
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Outstanding care
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Great care by Dr. Smith and his staff!
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We have been going here for years love the service and the people
- Jan. 09, 2025
Very professional, personal service. Staff very cordial. Dr. Smith is the best at explaining all tes... ts.
- Jan. 05, 2025
We've been going to Orlando Eyecare for over 25 years and the service is always exceptional!
- Dec. 24, 2024
I have been a patient here for almost 40 years and could not imagine going anywhere else.The staff a... re great, super friendly and quick to resolve any concerns and Dr Smith is one in a million!! I would highly recommend Orlando Eye care to everyone!!
- Dec. 06, 2024
Fantastic customer service, great prices and fast service.
- Dec. 05, 2024
My husband and I have been seeing Dr. Smith and the team at Orlando Eyecare for 10+ years. They are ... kind and compassionate, and treat their patients like family. I would (and have) recommend this office to anyone in need of an excellent eye doctor.
- Nov. 28, 2024
Great staff! Excellent care.
- Nov. 16, 2024
If you’d like a personalized Eyecare Doctor and staff, with the best service in central FL, go to ... Orlando Eyecare. They are amazing. Always willing to help give you the best care possible.
- Nov. 12, 2024
Dr. Smith and his team are amazing. Have been coming here for years and will continue to come here n... o matter how far I live. Can’t beat the quality care you get from here.

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Dry Eyes in Orlando

Our optometry practice in Orlando

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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 Orlando Eyecare, 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!

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