A recent study in the journal Ophthalmology discovered that using a medication called topical prednisolone acetate for a long time increases the chances of developing a condition called steroid-induced ocular hypertension (SIH).
The researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, examined information from over 2,000 patients who were prescribed topical prednisolone acetate to treat various eye problems. They found that those who used the medication for more than six months were more likely to develop SIH compared to those who used it for less than six months.
SIH happens when the pressure inside the eye becomes high due to the use of steroids. This can be a serious issue that can lead to permanent vision loss called glaucoma.
The researchers believe that the increased risk of SIH with topical prednisolone acetate is because of how the drug works. Prednisolone acetate is a type of steroid that weakens the immune system. This can result in more production of a fluid called aqueous humor in the eye, which raises eye pressure.
Based on the study’s findings, it is important for patients using topical prednisolone acetate to be closely monitored for signs of SIH. If you are using this medication, it is crucial to visit your eye doctor regularly to check your eye pressure.
Other side effects of topical prednisolone acetate include blurred vision, burning, dry or itchy eyes, changes in vision, darkening of the skin, decreased vision, and diarrhea. If you experience any of these side effects, you should stop using the medication and consult your eye doctor.
To sum up, the study highlights the risk of developing SIH for patients using topical prednisolone acetate. If you are using this medication, it is essential to see your eye doctor regularly to check your eye pressure. If you experience any of the listed side effects, it is important to stop using the medication and consult your eye doctor.
