Popular Medications Found To Cause Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration, a top cause of vision loss in older adults, affects the macula—the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. While aging, genetics, and lifestyle factors like smoking are known contributors, certain medications may also increase risk. Here’s a look at key medications linked to macular degeneration and how to protect your vision.
1. Antipsychotic Medications
Certain antipsychotic drugs, used to treat mental health disorders, have been linked to macular degeneration. These medications can affect the eye’s blood vessels and increase the risk of retinal damage over time.
Common Examples:
Chlorpromazine (Thorazine): Used to treat schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.
Thioridazine (Mellaril): Previously used for schizophrenia but less common today due to its known ocular side effects.
How They Cause Macular Degeneration:
These drugs are known to deposit pigment on the retina, causing retinal toxicity and damage to the macula. Prolonged use can lead to permanent vision problems.
What to Do:
If you’re taking antipsychotic medications, have regular eye exams to monitor retinal health. If any vision changes occur, consult your healthcare provider.
2. Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)
Hydroxychloroquine is widely used to treat autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. While effective in controlling inflammation, it is known to cause retinal toxicity, which can lead to macular degeneration.
How It Causes Macular Degeneration:
Hydroxychloroquine can accumulate in the retinal tissue, damaging the macula over time. This damage can lead to permanent vision loss if not detected early.
What to Do:
Patients using hydroxychloroquine should have a baseline eye exam before starting the medication and undergo annual retinal screenings to detect early signs of damage. Early detection can prevent serious complications.
3. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications commonly prescribed for asthma, allergies, and autoimmune conditions. They are effective at reducing inflammation but may negatively affect eye health.
Common Examples:
Prednisone (oral)
Dexamethasone (oral or injection)
Steroid eye drops (for eye inflammation)
How They Cause Macular Degeneration:
Prolonged use of corticosteroids can increase intraocular pressure, which contributes to the development of macular edema and can lead to macular degeneration in severe cases.
What to Do:
If you’re prescribed corticosteroids for a long period, your eye health should be monitored regularly. Let your eye care provider know if you’re using any corticosteroid medications.
4. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
While NSAIDs like ibuprofen are generally safe when used occasionally, long-term or high-dose use of certain NSAIDs has been associated with eye health issues, including macular degeneration.
Common Examples:
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Aspirin (in high doses)
Naproxen (Aleve)
How They Cause Macular Degeneration:
Chronic use of NSAIDs can increase the risk of macular degeneration by affecting blood flow to the retina. Additionally, they may contribute to oxidative stress, which can damage retinal cells.
What to Do:
If you’re taking NSAIDs for chronic pain or inflammation, consider discussing alternative treatments with your doctor. Regular eye exams are essential to monitor any potential changes in eye health.
5. Blood Pressure Medications (Antihypertensives)
Medications used to control high blood pressure are crucial for heart health but may have unintended effects on eye health, including macular degeneration.
Common Examples:
Beta-blockers (like Metoprolol)
Calcium channel blockers (like Amlodipine)
ACE inhibitors (like Lisinopril)
How They Cause Macular Degeneration:
These medications alter blood pressure, which affects the blood flow to the retina. In some cases, reduced blood flow to the eyes may increase the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
What to Do:
Patients with high blood pressure should have regular eye exams and discuss any vision changes with their healthcare provider. If concerns about medication arise, alternative treatments may be available.
6. Cancer Chemotherapy Drugs
Chemotherapy drugs are powerful medications used to fight cancer, but they often have severe side effects, including eye health issues.
Common Examples:
Tamoxifen (used in breast cancer treatment)
Cisplatin (used in various cancers)
5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)
How They Cause Macular Degeneration:
Chemotherapy drugs can cause oxidative stress and toxic effects on retinal cells, leading to changes in vision and potential macular degeneration.
What to Do:
If you’re undergoing chemotherapy, inform your oncologist and eye doctor of any vision changes. Regular eye exams can help catch issues early.
7. Anticholinergic Medications
Anticholinergic medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, such as overactive bladder, depression, and Parkinson’s disease. However, they can have negative effects on eye health.
Common Examples:
Oxybutynin (used for overactive bladder)
Diphenhydramine (antihistamine in Benadryl)
Trihexyphenidyl (used for Parkinson’s disease)
How They Cause Macular Degeneration:
These medications reduce the production of tears, leading to dry eyes. Chronic dry eyes can cause damage to the retina and increase the risk of macular degeneration.
What to Do:
If you’re using anticholinergic medications, consider using lubricating eye drops and discuss your eye health with your provider. Regular checkups can prevent serious complications.
