The truth you need to know about eye drops for cataracts

Many sources are claiming the effectiveness of eye drops for cataracts. This leads many to believe that cataracts can be treated without surgery. However, this topic remains highly debated. In the article below, let's explore the accurate information surrounding this issue and clarify what eye drops for cataracts.

1. Can you take eye drops for cataracts?

Currently, there are no eye drops for cataracts that have been scientifically proven to treat or reverse the condition. Although some studies in 2015 suggested the possibility of using eye drops for cataract removal, these were only trials and have not been confirmed. Therefore, anyone claiming that eye drops can treat cataracts is simply misleading.

Cataracts occur when the natural lens in the eye becomes cloudy, and the only proven treatment is surgery. While certain eye drops may provide temporary relief for symptoms like dryness or irritation, they do not address the root cause of cataracts. The only definitive solution is cataract surgery. During the surgery, the doctor will use ultrasound or laser to break up the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial lens.

The truth is that eye drops for cataracts are not a definitive treatment for cataracts

2. The best  eye drops for cataracts

Although there are currently no eye drops for cataracts, you can use specialized eye drops to support your vision and slow down the aging process. Additionally, eye drops can help with anti-inflammatory effects and prevent complications after cataract surgery. Here are some types of eye drops you may consider.

2.1. Eye drops for cataracts can improve vision

Eye drops may offer potential benefits in improving various aspects of vision or even slowing the progression of cataracts. Here are a few options:

Antioxidant Eye Drops
These drops are designed to support the eye’s natural antioxidant defenses, which tend to weaken as we age. By cleaning and enhancing the transparency of the lens, antioxidant eye drops can be beneficial for individuals with cataracts. Some popular brands available internationally include OcluMed, Can-C, and Brite Eyes III….

N-Acetylcarnosine
Research published in Primary Care Optometry News revealed promising results for cataract patients treated with N-acetylcarnitine. In one study, 90% of participants experienced improved visual acuity, and 80% noticed enhanced sensitivity to glare. This suggests that using eye drops for cataracts may help improve eye health.

C-KAD
Developed by Livionex, Inc, C-KAD is an innovative eye drop solution currently undergoing clinical trials. The goal of C-KAD is to reverse early-stage cataracts, especially when people begin to notice decreased contrast sensitivity. Over time, these drops help eliminate heavy metals that contribute to the buildup of abnormal proteins in the lens, potentially reversing cataract formation.

Eye drops, when used, help prevent the eyes from becoming dry and uncomfortable

See other:

• How long does it take to go blind from cataracts?

• Can cataracts come back?

2.2. Eye drops that are used after cataract surgery

After cataract surgery, there are three main types of eye drops for cataracts commonly prescribed: steroid, antibiotic, and NSAID eye drops. The specific frequency and duration for using these drops will depend on your medical history and individual eye care needs.

Steroid Eye Drops
Steroid eye drops are used to reduce inflammation following cataract surgery. By minimizing inflammation, these drops help manage post-surgery discomfort and decrease the likelihood of developing macular edema, a condition where the macula (the part of the eye responsible for sharp vision) swells, causing blurry vision and delaying recovery.

Prednisolone (Pred-Forte) and loteprednol (Lotemax) are the most commonly prescribed steroid drops. You’ll use them 2 to 4 times a day for 2 to 6 weeks and a gradual reduction in frequency over time as your recovery progresses.

Antibiotic Eye Drops
Antibiotic eye drops are essential to prevent infections after cataract surgery. Infections can be serious, so using these drops as prescribed is crucial. Your surgeon may even recommend starting them a few days before the surgery.

Common antibiotic eye drops prescribed after cataract surgery include moxifloxacin (Vigamox) and gatifloxacin (Zymaxid). You’ll use these drops several times a day for 1 to 2 weeks following your procedure.

NSAID Eye Drops
NSAID (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) eye drops help alleviate pain and inflammation without using steroids. You depend on your health history, you may be given NSAID drops instead of steroids. 

Ketorolac (Acular), bromfenac (Prolensa), and nepafenac (Ilevro) are the most commonly used NSAID eye drops. If prescribed, you’ll use them 2 to 4 times a day for about a month.

Here is a list of some good eye drops you can use:

Using eye drops after cataract surgery helps the eyes recover more quickly

3. Tips for using effective eye drops to improve vision

Although eye drops for cataracts are not proven to be effective, using them to improve overall eye health is certainly possible. However, to use them effectively, here are some tips you should follow:

• Follow Your Doctor's Instructions: Always follow the prescribed dosage and frequency of use for your eye drops. Overuse or underuse can lead to ineffective treatment or unwanted side effects.
• Wash Your Hands: Before you use any eye drops, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly to avoid contaminating the eye drops or your eyes with germs.
• Avoid Touching the Dropper: When applying the drops, avoid letting the dropper touch your eye, eyelashes, or any surface to prevent contamination.
• Tilt Your Head Back: Lie down or tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid gently to form a small pocket. This helps the eye drop to stay in your eye longer and improves absorption.
• Keep Your Eyes Closed: After applying the drops, close your eyes gently for about 30 seconds. Do not blink or squeeze your eyes, as this can push the medication out of your eye.
• Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Rubbing your eyes can push the drops out and may irritate the eye. Keep your eyes closed gently for the best absorption.
• Wait Between Drops: If you're applying multiple types of eye drops, make sure to wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before using the next one. This ensures that each medication has time to be absorbed properly.
• Use a Clean Tissue: If any excess liquid drips out of your eye after applying the drops, gently dab it with a clean tissue. Avoid wiping too harshly.
• Use regularly: Regular and consistent use of eye drops is key to improving eye health and managing conditions like cataracts or dry eye syndrome.

Using eye drops in moderation will yield better results

4. FAQs

Can you still use artificial tears for cataract surgery?
Yes, artificial tears can be used before and after cataract surgery to relieve dry eye symptoms. They help keep your eyes moist and comfortable, especially since the eyes may become dry following surgery. However, consult with your eye doctor before using them to ensure they won't interfere with other treatments.

Can you use eye drops prior to cataract surgery?
Your doctor may recommend certain eye drops for you to use prior to cataract surgery. These drops are typically antibiotics to prevent infection or anti-inflammatory medications to minimize swelling.

Can eye drops dissolve cataracts?
Currently, there are no eye drops available that can cure or remove cataracts. While some drops may help with vision-related issues or slow the progression of cataracts in their early stages, surgery remains the only effective treatment for removing cataracts.

Can you get rid of cataracts without surgery?
No, cataracts cannot be fully treated without surgery once they have progressed. Surgery is the only proven method to remove cataracts and restore clear vision. Non-surgical treatments, like using stronger glasses or magnifying lenses, can help manage the condition in its early stages but won't reverse or eliminate the cataract.

The information above of Zextrasure helps clarify that eye drops for cataracts do not treat cataract disease. To fully recover, surgery is required. However, to improve eye health, you can still use eye drops as a supportive product.