title: Systemic reactions associated with ophthalmic medications.
abstract: Although most medications for ophthalmic disease are administered locally, systemic absorption occurs as the drug passes into the nasopharynx by way of the nasolacrimal duct and may lead to a significant exposure. Knowledge of the mechanism of action of the drug, extent of systemic exposure, and its corresponding risks are important factors that must be considered before prescription of any ophthalmic agent. The relative risk in turn depends on the agent prescribed, plasma levels achieved, and individual susceptibility factors. Judicious use of pharmacotherapy in the management of ophthalmic disease should minimize the risk-benefit ratio.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Division of Glaucoma, University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey, New Jersey Medical School, 90 Bergen Street, Newark, NJ 07103, USA. lamapj@umdnj.edu
authors.forename: Paul J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Lama
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002319:Cardiovascular System / Q000187:drug effects*; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000187:drug effects*; D005128:Eye Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012307:Risk Factors
chemical_list: D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions