Corticosteroid eye drops can also be used to treat multiple conditions related to inflammation in the eye such as after cataract extraction or corneal transplant. But just as oral corticosteroids can cause multiple adverse effects--usually related to the length or dose of treatment--ocular corticosteroids can also cause a variety of adverse effects, mainly in the eye. For most of these conditions--except for cataract formation--once the eye drops have been discontinued, the side effects cease in most people.
Cataracts
Corticosteroid eye drops can cause changes in the lens of the eye which can lead to cataract formation, one of the more common side effects of corticosteroid eye drops. The formation of the cataract is associated with the length and dosage of the therapy; however, some patients with cataracts before therapy, as well as diabetics, may be more likely to develop cataracts after treatment with corticosteroids. Stopping the medication will not make the cataract go away; the only treatment for cataracts after corticosteroid treatment is cataract surgery.
Increased Eye Pressure
Using corticosteroid eye drops can increase the pressure in the eye and cause glaucoma. The mechanism for this increased pressure is not fully understood, according to the Glaucoma Associates of Texas, but the tissue in the drainage angle of the eye may be affected and fluid drainage may be decreased. The doctor who prescribes corticosteroid eye drops will monitor the patient's eye pressure for the duration of treatment. Patients with glaucoma need additional monitoring. If the eye pressure does elevate during corticosteroid therapy, for most patients, the discontinuation of the eye drops will cause the eye pressure to return to normal.
Increased Risk of Infection
Corticosteroids are used systemically to suppress the immune system in patients with autoimmune diseases and other conditions, and can increase the risk of infection in the eye. To combat this, doctors often prescribe antibiotic eye drops along with the corticosteroid eye drops if there is infection present or the treatment takes place after eye surgery.
Delayed Wound Healing
Systemic steroids can weaken the body's ability to heal itself after a wound. When using corticosteroid eye drops after a surgical procedure, patients should expect somewhat longer healing times.
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