Tag: Dry eyes

In one study, 36% of patients taking a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), such as Prozac, were found to have abnormal eye movements during non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, leading to the informal term **'What are Prozac eyes?'**. This phenomenon is distinct from the more commonly reported visual disturbances people experience while awake, such as blurred vision or dry eyes.

According to research published in *Optician Online*, many antibiotics have been reported to have adverse effects affecting the eyes or vision. So, the answer to "can antibiotics make your eyes bloodshot?" is yes, it is a possible side effect, though it is not a universally experienced one.

In 2021, an estimated 2.5 million adults in the U.S. had a past-year opioid use disorder (OUD), for which methadone is a key treatment [1.7.5]. A primary question for users is, what does methadone do to your eyes? The most common effect is pupil constriction, or miosis [1.2.1].

Over 40 million people in the U.S. use beta-blockers for conditions like hypertension and glaucoma. A common concern for patients is whether this medication class can affect their vision, prompting the question: **Can beta-blockers affect your eyes?** Yes, both oral and topical forms can cause a variety of ocular side effects, from dry eyes to blurred vision.

Approximately 13% of American adults take antidepressant medication, but many are unaware of the potential for vision problems associated with these drugs. While crucial for managing mental health, the complex ways these medications alter brain chemistry can sometimes result in unintentional ocular side effects, ranging from temporary and mild to more serious conditions.

Atropine, an anticholinergic medication used for various eye conditions, is known to inhibit glandular secretions, which can lead to decreased tear production and cause dry eyes. This side effect is a result of the medication's effect on the parasympathetic nervous system.

While rare, increased pressure in the brain, known as intracranial hypertension (IH), has been reported as a serious side effect of the antibiotic doxycycline, and can lead to vision problems. This serious risk raises a critical question: Can doxycycline affect your eyes in other ways, and what should patients know about potential adverse effects?

According to ophthalmologists, using preservative-containing artificial tears more than four to six times a day can potentially cause more harm than good. Understanding **what happens if you use too much Refresh Tears** is crucial, as excessive use can inadvertently lead to a vicious cycle of dependency and aggravated symptoms.

Optive is a popular brand of over-the-counter lubricating eye drops used to treat dry, irritated eyes, but it is important to understand what are the side effects of Optive before use. While typically considered safe, some users may experience minor discomfort or, in rare cases, more severe issues. Knowing the difference between temporary irritation and a more serious problem is key to safe application.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 13% of American adults take antidepressants, and for some, these medications can have an impact on vision. A range of ocular issues, from mild and temporary blurred vision to more serious glaucoma risks, are possible side effects.