Metoprolol and Dry Eyes

There are a number of rare side effects that are documented in less than 1 percent of people taking metoprolol, and dry eyes are one of them. If you are taking metoprolol and dry eyes become a problem, you can try using non-preserved eye drops, protecting your eyes from drafts or wind, or using a humidifier in rooms where you spend the most time.

 

Metoprolol and Dry Eyes: An Overview

There are several possible side effects for people taking metoprolol (available as Lopressor®, Toprol XL®, and generic metoprolol). Dry eyes are a reported side effect seen in rare cases (less than 1 percent of people). This data comes from clinical trials that studied metoprolol extensively and documented its side effects.
 

Suggestions for Dry Eye Relief With Metoprolol

If you develop dry eyes while taking metoprolol, there are some things that you can do.
 Here are some suggestions that may help with dry eyes:
 
  • Don't use artificial tears that irritate your eyes. Try another brand or preparation; non-preserved drops may be more comfortable.
     
  • Blink several times a minute while reading or working on the computer.
     
  • Protect your eyes from drafts, breezes, and wind.
     
  • Put a humidifier in the rooms where you spend the most time (including the bedroom) or install a humidifier in your heating and air conditioning unit.
     
  • Don't smoke, and stay out of smoky rooms.
     
  • Apply mascara only to the tips of your lashes so it doesn't get in your eyes. If you use eyeliner or eye shadow, put it only on the skin above your lashes and not on the sensitive skin under your lashes or close to your eyes.
     
  • Ask your doctor whether any of your other medications contribute to dryness, and if so, how to reduce that effect. Some medications that can cause dry eyes include:
o Antihistamines
o Decongestants
o Diuretics
o Some diarrhea medicines
o Some antipsychotic drugs
o Tranquilizers
o Some blood pressure medications, including ACE inhibitors and other beta blockers
If you have dry eyes while taking metoprolol and the suggestions above do not help, make sure to talk with your healthcare provider about other options. There are other treatments that he or she may be able to recommend (such as eye ointments or Lacriserts) that can provide dry eye relief. He or she may also recommend trying another medicine to see if your symptoms improve.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;