Eye problems with atorvastatin

[Mhstraits]

Has any experienced eye irritation when starting atorvastatin. I am also taking clopidogrel, and aspirin

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

Hello and welcome to the forum! I am not quite sure how you define eye irritation so will answer generally. Statins very occasionally caused blurred vision and similar problems. Usually this is associated with other related issues such as muscle pains and liver changes. Clopidogrel can very, very rarely cause bleeding on the retina.

You need to see your GP who may arrange blood tests. It might also be going to see your optician as in these situations they an usually fit you in quickly. If there is a sudden change or any pain then it is straight to A&E.

[Mhstraits in reply to MichaelJH]

Thank you for your reply and for several others. I had a heart attack on 20/2/20 and am in hospital still. I was given an 80 mg dose of atorvastatin on 20/3 and 21/2 plus. Clopidogrel 150mg on 21/2 and 22/2. Later on 22/2 I suddenly developed extreme inflammation of both eyes which were so painful I couldn’t move my eyes. I was seen by ophthalmologist who told me it wasn’t caused by meds ,prescribed dexamethasone drops and blood was taken ? What for. My eyes are more comfortable but still inflamed and when drops are due they get sore again so it doesn’t seem to be a cure. Atorvastatin does have a listed side effect of red, irritated eyes. Other statin don’t. Docs are prepared to reduce dose to 20mg but not change it as I would have preferred.

Has anyone had any similar experience?

[Ianc2 in reply to Mhstraits]

go and upset the applecart and insist that they change the statin or tell them you want to go on to warfarin.. Statins are supposed to help with cholesterol, but dietary changes can achieve the same results without damaging your eyes.

[Prada47 in reply to Ianc2]

How did you come to the conclusion that statins has damaged his eyes ?? That is for a professional to advise, we don't know !!!

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to Ianc2]

Warfarin is prescribed for different reasons than a statin. Also diet may not reduce cholesterol sufficiently. Mhstraits needs to seek medical advice urgently.

[HectorsDad]

If you are prone to sensitivity issues (i get eczema and I’m coeliac) almost any change in body or blood chemistry can cause dry eyes for a few days. I don’t always feel it as dryness though, just struggling to see etc. Basic eye drops work- but get it checked unless you are sure it is ok.

[tizz1 in reply to HectorsDad]

come to think of it i am on the same medication and have eye irritation sort of itchy eyes especially when out in the cold or wind i put it down to old age but i may look into this thanks hope your well matey

[HectorsDad in reply to tizz1]

I’m still ticking thanks, as they say😀.

Basic dry eye drops work for me, but an optician friend also put me on to some that come in little plastic ampules that are really convenient. I keep a couple in my man bag or whatever as they never go off.

He said try boots, but they gave me a black eye and left mud all over my face 😂.

[Bagrat in reply to HectorsDad]

If you are going to use dry eye drops regularly tbe ones in individual pods are better as many people develop a sensitivity to the preservative in most bottles. There are a couple that are preservative free.

I have dry eyes due to meibomian gland dysfunction ( doesn't that sound posh?) These are the sebum producing glands near your eyelashes and microwaveable hot eye packs are a god send but you should get optician to test.

[Handel in reply to HectorsDad]

😂!!! xxx Thanks for brightening up a very soggy morning!

[Lezzers in reply to HectorsDad]

😂

[Hullensian in reply to HectorsDad]

Oh, that made me laugh!

[Helen_BHF]

Hi guys, please be careful about warning people against medication without speaking to a health professional first. I know people are keen to share their experiences but medication and side effects should be a conversation for your GP. Thanks all.