Could One of Your Medications Be Causing Dry Eyes?

November 18, 2022

Most people who take medications daily don’t realize that some of those drugs’ side effects include dry eye. Moisture is crucial for your eyes to function well. Dry eye arises when your tears don’t properly lubricate your eyes, your eyes don’t make enough tears, or your tears evaporate too quickly. 
 
Your eyesight affects how you live and enjoy your life. At the office of Drs. Chandler & Davis, we understand this and are here for you. We listen to your needs and collaborate with you to help your vision stay healthy. Our location also offers an extensive assortment of eyeglass frames and contact lenses for your every need.
 
These are some medications that can cause dryness and leave your eyes tired, scratchy and red. 
 

Antihistamines: While they provide much welcome relief for people who are allergic to pollen, mold, pet dander and dust mites, most cause a reduction in tear production which will cause dryness. 

Isotretinoin: It treats severe cystic acne by decreasing the number of oils made by certain glands. Some of those glands are in your eyelids and create the oils that are necessary for healthy tears.

Antihypertensives: Dozens of different medications help treat high blood pressure. One byproduct is that your body produces a lower amount of one of the proteins included in your tears. This results in fewer tears and dryer eyes. 

Pain relievers: Though uncommon, popular medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Aleve, Naproxen, Advil and Motrin can make your eyes dry. 

Birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy: Medical professionals can’t pinpoint exactly how hormones beget dry eyes but there seems to be a connection. It might be because they influence the gland that controls the amount of tear fluid production. 

Diuretics: These are medications that help remove water and salt from your body. Tears have a lot of water and salt. 
 

If you have concerns about dry eyes or need an updated prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses, the office of Drs. Chandler & Davis is here to help. Please don’t hesitate to contact us today for an appointment.