Oftentimes, our prescriptions have side effects of which we are unaware. Did you know there are medications that can cause or worsen cataracts? While these medications may be necessary, it is important you understand how that can affect your eye health, so you can stay on top of your conditions with your eye doctor. Scientists have not completely determined why some prescription drugs can cause cataracts to form or grow faster, but it is still important to understand how your prescriptions can affect your eye health.
Statin Drugs
If you have high cholesterol, you likely are on a statin drug such as Lipitor, Pravachol, Crestor, Zocor, Lescol or Vytorin. These statin drugs can cause cataracts over time. Statin drugs can affect the oxidative process in your body. Oxidative damage may contribute to cataract development, and either cause existing cataracts to grow or new cataracts to form.
Some scientists hypothesize that another reason that statins contribute to cataracts is because they block the chemical in the liver that creates cholesterol from doing so. These scientists believe that higher cholesterol levels are needed in the eyes to maintain their transparency.
Phenothiazine Antipsychotics
Phenothiazine antipsychotics, such as Thorazine, Compro, and Prolixin, can increase the possibility of developing cataracts. Scientists are still studying the reasons for this and are unsure why there is a strong correlation between those who are prescribed Phenothiazine antipsychotics and those develop cataracts.
Steroid Medications
High dose or long term steroid use, such as that of Prednisone, can cause you to develop cataracts. While steroids are generally thought of as an issue for older people, steroid use can cause them to show up in any age group.
Many side effects caused by steroids subside once the steroid usage is ended, but this is not the case with cataracts. Scientists have found that cataracts stop growing once steroid usage is stopped, but they do not diminish in size. This also means that if you currently have cataracts, steroid drugs can further the issue. Be sure to discuss these concerns with your doctor.
For Cataract Treatment, Turn to Our Skilled Cataract Surgeon at South Palm
If you have developed cataracts due to medications, advanced age, or any other cause, we offer treatment using the latest lenses including Crystalens and Symfony. For cataract surgery near Boynton Beach, call us today at 561-737-4040.