CAN DRUGS CAUSE GLAUCOMA?
According to Leonard Levine, Ph.D., certain drugs can “impair the biological health of the visual system.” For example, the Physicians’ Desk Reference lists 94 medications that can cause glaucoma, including antihypertensives, antidepressants, and steroids, such as cortisol, which can destroy vital collagen tissue in the eye. Both herbal ephedrine and pseudoephedrine have central nervous system (CNS) stimulating properties. Ephedrine is the stronger of the two, but both are considered stronger than caffeine. The glaucomatous person should avoid these substances, particularly Ma-huang, licorice, and belladonna. Note: Antihistamines can increase pressure within the eye. If using drugs for other conditions, always inform your doctor of an existing glaucoma condition to avoid prescribing drugs that might adversely affect the disease. Obviously, it behooves individuals relying upon prescription drugs to thoroughly acquaint themselves with the side effects. The use of certain medications that
