Can Oral Medications Help Alleviate Floaters in the Eyes? - Ophthalmology

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Is there an oral medication that can alleviate floaters?


Hello Doctor: I have been suffering from floaters for a long time.
I have undergone retinal laser treatment in both eyes, but the sensation of floaters has been increasing without improvement.
I regularly return for retinal examinations.
I have had floaters for almost a year now, with both eyes suddenly developing them in just over six months, despite initially having a healthy retina without floaters.
Recently, I came across a discussion online where a patient mentioned that their doctor prescribed "Voritin" to alleviate floaters.
What is your assessment of this medication?

Xiao Xiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/15

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello, Xiao Xiao: Currently, there are no effective medications to treat floaters, and there are no published academic papers on Voritine.
I apologize, but I have not used this medication, so I cannot evaluate it.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses should only be used as a reference; it is necessary to visit a medical institution for treatment.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2021/03/15

More Info


Floaters in the eyes, commonly referred to as "floaters," are small specks or clouds that drift through your field of vision. They are typically caused by changes in the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance that fills the eye, as we age. While floaters are usually harmless, they can be quite bothersome, especially if they become more pronounced or numerous over time.
In your case, it seems that you have been experiencing an increase in floaters after undergoing retinal laser treatment, and you are seeking relief through oral medications, specifically "沃麗汀" (likely referring to a brand name for a medication that may contain ingredients aimed at improving eye health).
To address your question, it's important to clarify that there is currently no oral medication that has been scientifically proven to effectively reduce or eliminate floaters. Most treatments for floaters focus on managing the symptoms rather than directly addressing the underlying cause. The vitreous humor can become more liquid and less gel-like with age, leading to the formation of floaters. While some anecdotal reports suggest that certain supplements or medications might help, there is limited clinical evidence to support these claims.

The medication you mentioned, "沃麗汀," may contain ingredients that are thought to support eye health, such as antioxidants or vitamins. However, the efficacy of such supplements in treating floaters is not well established in the medical literature. It's crucial to consult with your ophthalmologist before starting any new medication or supplement, as they can provide personalized advice based on your specific eye condition and overall health.

In terms of managing floaters, here are some considerations:
1. Observation: In many cases, floaters become less noticeable over time as the brain learns to ignore them. If the floaters are not accompanied by flashes of light or a sudden increase in number, they are generally not a cause for concern.

2. Regular Eye Exams: Since you have a history of retinal laser treatment, it's essential to continue regular eye exams to monitor your eye health. Your ophthalmologist can assess whether there are any changes in your retina or vitreous that may require intervention.

3. Laser Treatment: In some cases, if floaters are particularly bothersome and significantly affect vision, a procedure called vitreolysis can be performed. This involves using a laser to break up the floaters, making them less noticeable. However, this procedure is not suitable for everyone and carries its own risks.

4. Surgery: In severe cases, a vitrectomy may be considered, where the vitreous gel is removed from the eye. This is typically reserved for extreme cases due to the potential complications associated with surgery.

5. Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in antioxidants (found in fruits and vegetables), staying hydrated, and protecting your eyes from UV light, may help support overall eye health.

In conclusion, while oral medications like "沃麗汀" may be marketed for eye health, their effectiveness in treating floaters is not supported by strong scientific evidence. It's best to discuss your concerns and treatment options with your ophthalmologist, who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. Remember, floaters are often a normal part of aging, and while they can be annoying, they are usually not indicative of a serious problem.

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