The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
OPHTHALMOLOGY
Q:The eye drops I take to manage my glaucoma have caused the skin around my eyes to darken. Is there any way to cover this up? Is there another drop to help me maintain good eye pressures that doesn’t have this side effect?
A:Eye drops for glaucoma, often the first choice of treatment, are used to decrease and control intraocular pressure (IOP) thus protecting the optic nerve. They work by either helping the eye’s fluid to drain better and/or by decreasing the amount of fluid made by the eye. Glaucoma drops are classified by their active ingredient and, as with any drug, there are potential side effects. Classifications include prostaglandin analogs (Xalatan, Lumigan, Travatan), beta blockers (Timolol), alpha agonists (Alphagan P), carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (Trusopt, Azopt), and combination drops (Combigan, Cosopt). Adverse reactions may also occur due to additive agents in the drops such as preservatives or stabilizers. Darkening of the eyelid skin as you mentioned is a known side effect from one of the primary classes of agents used to treat glaucoma, the prostaglandin analogues. Other side effects may include stinging, eye redness, itching, and burning.
Although I feel this is a rare side effect, it can be noticeable to some patients. If this side effect is very bothersome, does not improve over time, and cannot be improved with various types of makeup to cover the darkening, the only other remedy is to discontinue the medication. Make sure to discuss this medication side effect with your eye doctor and do not discontinue your medication until you have discussed alternative drops or treatments.
There are a variety of options to treat glaucoma including other groups of drops with different active ingredients, and generic or preservative-free formulations; laser procedures, and surgery. Keep in mind that each option has a set of risks and benefits that should be considered and discussed as related to your specific needs and ocular condition(s). Your eye doctor will work closely with you to prescribe the best eye drop(s) and/or treatment for your needs and evaluate the results on an ongoing basis.
Gregory Eippert, MD
9485 Mentor Ave., #110, Mentor 44060 440-255-1115 www.opivision.com