Medication-Induced Dry Eye: Causes, Common Drugs, and What to Do

When your eyes feel gritty, burning, or constantly dry—even when you're not staring at a screen—it might not be allergies or screen fatigue. It could be your medication-induced dry eye, a side effect caused by certain drugs that reduce tear production or alter tear composition. Also known as drug-induced dry eye, this condition affects millions who take everyday prescriptions and over-the-counter meds without realizing the link. Unlike temporary dryness from wind or air conditioning, this type of dry eye sticks around because the root cause isn't environmental—it's pharmaceutical.

It starts quietly. You notice your eyes feel tired faster. You blink more. You reach for artificial tears more often than before. Then you realize: you started a new pill last month. That’s when you connect the dots. Antihistamines, commonly used for allergies, hay fever, and even sleep aids like Benadryl are among the biggest culprits. They block histamine, yes—but they also dampen the signals that tell your tear glands to produce moisture. Same goes for antidepressants, especially SSRIs and tricyclics, which alter neurotransmitters that regulate tear secretion. Even blood pressure meds, like beta-blockers and diuretics, can cut down on tear flow. And don’t forget about acne treatments like isotretinoin, hormone therapies, or even some glaucoma drops. These aren’t rare side effects—they’re well-documented, predictable, and often ignored.

If you’re on any of these drugs and your eyes feel like sandpaper, it’s not just "getting older." It’s a direct result of how the medication works in your body. The good news? You don’t have to live with it. Talking to your doctor doesn’t mean quitting your meds—it means exploring alternatives, adjusting doses, or adding safe lubricants that won’t interfere. Some people find relief with preservative-free drops, humidifiers, or even changing their contact lens type. Others need a switch to a different class of medication entirely. The key is recognizing the pattern early, before your cornea gets damaged. You’ve already taken the first step by looking this up. Now you’re ready to act.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides on how to spot dangerous side effects, read your prescription labels correctly, and understand how common drugs like antihistamines and antidepressants quietly affect your body. These aren’t theoretical articles—they’re practical tools for people who take meds daily and want to protect their health, eyes included.