Certain anticonvulsant medications may be associated with an increased risk of developing glaucoma shortly after starting treatment, according to a presentation at the 2025 ASCRS Annual Meeting.
Researchers analyzed data from 10 studies, encompassing over 212,000 individuals diagnosed with glaucoma. They found that 5% of those diagnosed were taking an anticonvulsant. Among patients who began anticonvulsant therapy, 13% went on to develop glaucoma, with symptoms appearing on average just over 8 days after starting treatment.
Drugs such as topiramate, pregabalin, gabapentin, and bupropion were frequently cited. Topiramate was associated with the highest rate of glaucoma onset, with 13.1% of users affected.
This is the first comprehensive review exploring the relationship between anticonvulsant use and glaucoma. The authors emphasize the need for further research to understand the underlying mechanisms and recommend that healthcare providers monitor patients closely for early signs of glaucoma when prescribing these medications.
Reference
Lim KS, et al. The Association between Anticonvulsants Use and Glaucoma. Presented at: American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery Annual Meeting; April 25–28, 2025; Los Angeles, CA.
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