Boniva, generic name ibandronate sodium, is a type of drug used to prevent bone loss in people with osteoporosis or osteopenia, which is low bone density. Boniva belongs to a class of drugs known as nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates containing nitrogen have been associated in rare cases with eye problems that can be severe. Eye problems are more likely to occur after intravenous infusions of Boniva and other bisphosphonates.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is a side effect of Boniva and other bisphosphonates. Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the lining of the lower eyelids and bottom part of the eye. Conjunctivitis causes redness, tearing, light sensitivity and itching of the eye. Conjunctivitis is usually self-limiting and causes no serious damage to the eye.
Uveitis
Anterior chamber uveitis is a rare complication of nitrogen-containing bisphosphonateuse like Boniva. The uvea is the part of the eye found between the sclera, the white part of the eye, and the retina, which lines the back of the eye. The symptoms of anterior chamber uveitis include severe pain in the eye, redness, light sensitivity, decreased or blurry vision or floaters, small specks that appear to move in your line of vision. Steroids to decrease inflammation may be used to treat anterior chamber uveitis caused by Boniva use. Untreated uveitis can cause scarring, vision loss, increased pressure within the eye or retinal detachment, the Mayo Clinic states.
Scleritis
The sclera is the white outer layer of the eye. Inflammation of the sclera is an uncommon side effect of bisphosphonates such as Boniva. Scleritis causes severe pain, blurred vision, extremely painful light sensitivity, tearing and red patches on the white part of the eye. Steroid drops or oral medications are given to reduce inflammation. If untreated, scleritis can lead to perforation of the eyeball, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports.
Optic Neuritis
Optic neuritis, inflammation of the optic nerve, has rarely been associated with nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates. Optic neuritis usually has a sudden onset, with blurred or dim vision, pain behind the eye and changes in the way colors are seen--they may appear dull or faded. There's no specific treatment for optic neuritis.
