AT VILLAGE EYES OPTOMETRY
Medicamentosa-Related Dry Eye
When a topical product irritates the eyes
Medicamentosa describes an irritative or allergic reaction caused by a substance reaching the eye surface. Eye-drop ingredients, preservatives, contact lens solutions or cosmetics can contribute. Symptoms can include stinging, burning, redness, eyelid swelling and blurred vision, sometimes after weeks or months of use.
Retin-A and other retinoids
Retin-A (topical tretinoin) should be kept away from the eyes, as its prescribing information directs. Irritation from products used around the eyes can resemble or aggravate dryness. Evidence linking topical tretinoin to meibomian gland damage is more limited than the evidence for oral isotretinoin (Accutane); these are different medicines and routes of exposure.
Reviewing your routine
Bring all eye drops, contact lens products and facial skin-care products to your visit. Your doctor can identify likely triggers and coordinate any changes to prescribed treatment. Do not independently stop essential glaucoma drops or other prescribed medicines.
A substitute or preservative-free formulation may be appropriate when a particular ingredient is implicated.
