Key takeaways
- While no medication directly causes macular degeneration, some substances like tobacco, certain blood pressure medications, and NSAIDs may increase the risk or worsen the condition.
- Smoking is a significant and consistent risk factor for AMD, potentially due to its negative impacts on blood flow and nutrient absorption in the retina.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity, may help lower the risk or slow the progression of AMD.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that occurs when the macula — the central part of the retina that controls sharp, straight-ahead vision — is damaged.
While AMD is primarily linked to aging, genetics, and smoking, some research suggests that certain medications and habits can contribute to its development.
No medications have been directly linked to AMD, but the use of some medications and substances may increase your risk of it or worsen the condition if you already have it.
Do not stop taking prescribed medications without talking with your doctor first. Very often, the health benefits of these medications outweigh any potential risks, including AMD.
Tobacco
Smoking cigarettes is the most consistent risk factor for AMD.
People who smoke more than 20 cigarettes may be 2 to 3 times more likely to develop AMD with vision loss than those who don’t smoke, according to a 2021 research review citing older studies.
Smoking is also associated with the following factors that can damage your retina and macula:
- reduced oxygen flow
- blood vessel damage
- reduced nutrient absorption
- an increase in harmful chemicals circulating in the body
Blood pressure medications
In the
The researchers observed participants every 5 years for 20 years. The study began with 4,926 participants and involved 9,676 total visits throughout its duration.
The findings associate any vasodilator, such as minoxidil or hydralazine, with an increased risk of developing early AMD by 72%.
Among participants who were taking vasodilators, 19.1% developed early AMD, compared with only 8.2% of those who were not taking them.
The team also found a correlation between oral beta-blockers, such as atenolol and metoprolol, and the development of wet AMD, a less common but more serious form of the condition.
About 1.2% of the group taking beta-blockers developed wet AMD, while only about 0.5% of those not taking beta-blockers did. Overall, taking beta-blockers was associated with a 71% increase in the development of wet AMD.
NSAIDs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of over-the-counter (aspirin) and prescription medications (celecoxib, diclofenac) used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
A 2021 study
According to the Beaver Dam Eye Study, regular aspirin use
Still, other evidence suggests no real risk.
A 2019 analysis of participants in the landmark Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and AREDS2 found no significant association between aspirin use and progression to late AMD or its subtypes.
Can ibuprofen cause macular degeneration?
Although ibuprofen is an NSAID, there’s no real evidence that using it is a risk factor for AMD.
2019 research on the California Teachers Study cohort, which included more than 88,000 people,
You may have a higher risk of developing AMD if you:
- are older than 60
- smoke
- are white
- have a family history of AMD
- drink alcohol excessively
- eat lots of foods with a high glycemic index
- do not eat enough fruits or vegetables
- are not physically active
- have a body mass index of 30 or higher
- have diabetes
You may be able to lower your risk of AMD or slow its progression by:
- quitting smoking, or speaking with your doctor about your smoking cessation options
- eating a balanced diet that prioritizes fruits, veggies, lean protein, healthy fats, and whole grains
- exercising regularly
- maintaining normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels
While no medications or substances directly cause AMD, a few may contribute to its development or progression.
Smoking is the best-known risk factor. Stopping smoking as soon as possible can immediately decrease your risk.
Certain blood pressure medications, such as vasodilators and beta-blockers, and NSAIDs may increase the risk of AMD, but the evidence is conflicting and limited.
If you’re worried about your risk of AMD or have AMD, discuss your medication options with your eye doctor.