Contemplating LASIK? Medication Checklist

Photo Credit: Drew McKinney

As part of routine preoperative counseling ophthalmologists give lots of instructions to their surgery candidates. Do this, don't do that...you know the drill.

Even so, it often comes as a surprise to LASIK patients that there is a long list of outlawed medications. These are drugs that can suppress tear production.

Why should tear formation matter in a young, healthy pre-LASIK eye?

When the LASIK corneal flap is created many delicate nerve fibers are severed. These nerves usually signal when fresh tears are needed. Until those nerves heal the tear output signal is interrupted.

It's very important to know before your surgery if you are a borderline dry-eye patient. Be sure to discuss the situation with your surgeon before giving your consent to undergo any kind of refractive surgery.

LASIK causes dry eyes in over 80% of healthy individuals. Most folks quickly recover and bide their time with artificial tears. Upwards of 2% develop chronic dry eyes. On the other hand, if you already have dry eyes or almost have a dry eye problem LASIK can definitely make things worse.

Here comes the list. Be sure your LASIK surgeon knows if you are currently taking any of the following medications (whether prescribed, over-the-counter, or natural herbal remedy):

• Antihistamines


• Decongestants


• Diuretics


• Antidiarrheal agents


• Antihypertensives (lower blood pressure)


• Tranquilizers


• Antidepressants


• Antipsychotics

Remember, never change or discontinue any medication without notifying the prescribing physician. Feel free to print this page and share it with your ophthalmologist.

Related Topics:

• WebMD Video: Eye Surgery 101
• WebMD Video: Laser Eye Surgery Helps More People See Better

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