What to Do if Your Medication Is Affecting Your Vision?

The medications prescribed to you by your doctor are supposed to help improve your condition. However, what if their side effects are affecting your vision? You should see your doctor as soon as possible. Still, it’s important for patients to at least have an idea of how certain medications can affect their vision. 

Commonly Used Drugs and Their Side Effects

1. Antihistamines – Antihistamines are used to treat allergies, but patients with a family history of glaucoma should be careful with taking them as they can increase their risks for the condition.
2. Corticosteroids – Corticosteroids lower inflammation in the body and are used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including asthma. However, they can cause swelling in the back of the retina and increase your risk for cataracts. The use of cortisone, a type of steroid, among diabetics also increases their risk of developing blurry vision.
3. Celecoxib – In addition to inflammation, this drug is also used to treat and manage pain. Known side effects include blurred vision and conjunctivitis.
4. Antimalarials and antipsychotic medications – These drugs may have a toxic effect on the retina.

Should You Stop Taking Your Medication?

If you experience any side effects, should you immediately stop taking your medication? Don’t – not until your doctor tells you otherwise. Other factors, aside from the medication, could be affecting your vision. Your doctor will need to make a complete assessment before they can determine that. As such, once you notice changes in your vision after taking medication, you need to see your doctor or vision therapy specialist as soon as possible. 

Knowing the Risks

When prescribing medication, your doctor will weigh the benefits and the potential side effects. However, certain conditions like diabetes and a history of eye conditions can potentially aggravate the side effects or increase your risk for those same conditions. That’s why you should inform your doctor about any health condition you may have before they give you a prescription. 

Insight Vision Center Optometry offers a wide range of professional eye care services, including vision therapy and scleral lenses. To schedule an appointment with one of our optometrists, you can call us at (714) 486-3315, or fill out our form here. We serve homeowners in Costa Mesa and Newport Beach, CA, as well as the surrounding communities.