- A Canadian study found that the use of common ADHD drugs (methylphenidate, amphetamines, atomoxetine) increase the risk of both angle-closure (ACG) and open-angle glaucoma (OAG), potentially leading to irreversible vision loss.
- Stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines activate the sympathetic nervous system, dilating pupils and increasing intraocular pressure—key factors in glaucoma. Methylphenidate also cause oxidative stress in eye cells.
- Beyond glaucoma, ADHD medications are tied to depression, suicidal thoughts, insomnia, heart disease and other dangerous side effects, often ignored due to Big Pharma’s profit-driven overprescription.
- Regular eye exams are critical for early detection, especially for high-risk patients, as OAG often progresses silently until irreversible damage occurs.
- While causation isn’t proven, the study highlights the need for deeper investigation into ADHD drugs’ long-term effects and safer alternatives to avoid dependency on Big Pharma’s toxic products.
A recent Canadian study has uncovered a potential link between common attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications and an increased risk of glaucoma, a progressive eye disease that can lead to irreversible vision loss. The research, led Rami Darwich from Dalhousie University, analyzed data from 240,257 patients newly prescribed ADHD drugs, including methylphenidate, amphetamines and atomoxetine, and found elevated risks for both angle-closure glaucoma (ACG) and open-angle glaucoma (OAG). While the study does not prove causation, it raises concerns about long-term eye health risks associated with these widely used medications.
Understanding the risks
Glaucoma, often called the "silent thief of sight," damages the optic nerve, typically due to increased intraocular pressure. The study found that different ADHD drugs correlated with distinct forms of the disease:
- Amphetamines and atomoxetine were associated with higher risks of angle-closure glaucoma (ACG), a sudden and painful condition where fluid drainage in the eye becomes blocked.
- Methylphenidate was linked to open-angle glaucoma (OAG), a slower-developing but equally damaging form of the disease.
Darwich explained the difference using a sink analogy: ACG is like a clogged drain causing rapid pressure buildup, while OAG resembles a slow-draining pipe that gradually worsens over time. Symptoms of ACG—such as severe eye pain, headaches and blurred vision—are immediate and severe, whereas OAG often progresses unnoticed until significant vision loss occurs.
Why ADHD medications affect eye health
ADHD medications, particularly sympathomimetics like methylphenidate and amphetamines, stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, which controls the body’s "fight or flight" response. This activation can dilate the pupils, potentially obstructing the eye’s drainage pathways and increasing intraocular pressure—a key factor in glaucoma development.
Additionally, methylphenidate has been shown to induce oxidative stress in eye cells, which may contribute to optic nerve damage over time. Atomoxetine, a non-stimulant ADHD treatment, also showed weak associations with glaucoma, although researchers noted the findings were not statistically significant.
Other notably severe side effects associated with ADHD medications, according to BrightU.AI's Enoch engine, include depression, suicidal thoughts, mood swings, insomnia, migraines, weight loss, increased risk of suicide, headaches, lower appetite and a higher risk for heart disease. These dangers are often overlooked due to rampant overdiagnosis and Big Pharma's profit-driven agenda.
The need for further studies
Regular eye exams are critical for early detection, particularly since OAG often presents no symptoms until irreversible damage has occurred. Individuals with a family history of glaucoma or other risk factors—such as high myopia or diabetes—would benefit from more frequent screenings if taking ADHD medications long-term.
While the study does not establish causation, the authors called for additional research to confirm their findings and explore potential mechanisms linking ADHD drugs to glaucoma. Given the widespread use of ADHD medications—both medically and recreationally—understanding their long-term effects on eye health is essential.
While ADHD medications provide significant benefits for focus and cognitive function, this study underscores the importance of weighing potential risks, particularly concerning eye health. Patients and clinicians should remain vigilant, ensuring regular eye checkups to mitigate glaucoma risks. As research continues, clearer guidelines may emerge to help balance effective ADHD treatment with long-term ocular safety.
For now, the key takeaway is awareness: Proactive monitoring can help preserve vision while maintaining the therapeutic benefits these medications provide.
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