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Long term use of inhaled steroids as a risk factor for ocular hypertension and glaucoma – a study in a tertiary care unit

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Original Article

Author Details : Radhika R, Naga Suresh V

Volume : 2, Issue : 3, Year : 2016

Article Page : 182-185

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Abstract

Introduction: Compared to systemic steroids, inhaled steroids are much better in view of adverse reactions because of less systemic absorption. However there are indication to show that the use of inhaled steroids is a possible risk factor for ocular hypertension and glaucoma.
Materials and Methods: A total number of 100 subjects over the age of 50 years, suffering from Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, who were prescribed inhaled steroids for the first time, were included into the study. Intra Ocular Pressure (IOP) was measured for the patients at 3, 6, and 12 month follow up.
Results: At the end of the year, the number of patients who were positive for IOP was 5. There was a significant increase of the intraocular pressure during the follow ups at 3, 6 and 12 months among the patients. The intraocular pressure significantly increased in patients with a very high dosage of over 1000 units of inhaled steroids after 1 year.
Conclusion: Prolonged administration of inhaled steroids for control of asthma can cause ocular hypertension. However, high doses of inhaled corticosteroids should be used with caution.

Keywords: Glaucoma, Inhaled corticosteroid, Intra ocular hypertension

How to cite : Radhika R, Naga Suresh V, Long term use of inhaled steroids as a risk factor for ocular hypertension and glaucoma – a study in a tertiary care unit. Indian J Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2016;2(3):182-185

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