Could a medication commonly used for erectile dysfunction affect your eye health? Recent research has raised questions about a possible connection between long-term tadalafil use and glaucoma.
Tadalafil, commonly known by the brand name Cialis, is used to treat erectile dysfunction and symptoms of an enlarged prostate. A recent observational study found a higher relative risk of high eye pressure and open-angle glaucoma among people taking tadalafil long term.
Dr. Bing Chiu, ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon at Center for Advanced Eye Care, says it is important to put these findings into perspective. The study found an association, not proof that tadalafil causes glaucoma. While the relative increase in risk may sound significant, the difference in absolute risk was less than 1%.
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve and can lead to gradual, irreversible vision loss. High eye pressure is an important risk factor, although glaucoma can also develop when eye pressure is within a normal range.
Researchers are still studying how tadalafil could affect the eyes. Because the medication relaxes blood vessels, it may influence eye pressure or blood flow to the optic nerve, but more research is needed.
“Those with other risk factors, such as individuals over 50 years of age, high nearsightedness or a family history of glaucoma, should be especially proactive about scheduling an evaluation,” Dr. Chiu says.
Concerned about glaucoma? If you have elevated eye pressure, glaucoma risk factors or have been referred for further evaluation, the ophthalmologists at Center for Advanced Eye Care can help. Call 833-921-6200 or request an appointment online.
