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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- Sep. 09, 2025
Staff was welcoming and very friendly
- Sep. 02, 2025
I recently visited this eye doctor and couldn’t be happier with my experience. As I’m getting ol... der, I needed a solution for contacts with progressive lenses, and they absolutely delivered. From check-in to check-out, the entire team was amazing—professional, kind, and thorough. My vision has never been better! They also have a great selection of frames for my new glasses, with prices that were very reasonable. Best of all, they worked seamlessly with my insurance plan, which made the whole process stress-free. I definitely recommend this office and can truly “see” myself going back again!
- Aug. 23, 2025
Smiling faces everything I visit and I am always made to feel that my business is valued. I have bee... n a patient for 30+ years and it only gets better. Thank you for treating my family and I like family.
- Aug. 17, 2025
The staff is very friendly, and the doctor is very knowledgeable and explained everything in detail
- Aug. 13, 2025
Great place. Dr. Smith is very knowledgeable, kind and thorough.
- Aug. 08, 2025
My family and I have been going to Orlando Eyecare for years. Every visit have been pleasant and eve... ryone is very professional and nice and helpful. I would continue recommending people to visit there because the staff there is awesome.
- Aug. 07, 2025
Always a pleasant experience.
- Jul. 18, 2025
Great service, friendly staff. I trust Dr. Smith with my eye care.
- Jul. 15, 2025
I've used Orlando Eyecare for a few years and have been consistently impressed with their staff and ... services.
- Jun. 29, 2025
Dr.Smith and his staff are very friend and professional and helpful ,my visit.was excellent, thanks ... once more.
- Jun. 11, 2025
I was able to get an emergency appointment the same day. Being a visitor to the area, I was in a pa... nic. Dr Smith and his staff were welcoming, professional, friendly, helpful, and thorough. Highly recommend!
- May. 26, 2025
Excellent eye care specialists, wonderful doctor and team!! I've been going here for many years and ... am extremely satisfied with the professional and friendly service I receive and they have so much patience!! A+++++++
- May. 19, 2025
Nice people . Excellent job
- May. 06, 2025
Dr. Smith and staff are awesome. Very friendly and welcoming. They explain everything thoroughly s... o you don't have to guess about anything. Also a very wide selection of beautiful frames.
- Apr. 30, 2025
I have been going to Orlando Eyecare for over 40 years, would not change a thing 🙂
- Apr. 18, 2025
The service was fast and the entire staff is very professional and friendly.
- Apr. 14, 2025
Wonderful Eye Care Center!
- Apr. 12, 2025
Good employees,respectful
- Mar. 27, 2025
Dr. Smith and the entire staff at Orlando Eyecare are warm and friendly. The customer service is top... notch.
- Mar. 24, 2025
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!!

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Dry Eyes 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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