Ultraviolet phototoxicity of some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDS) on the retina of the eye

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Project Period: 
1990
Project Investigator(s): 
TK Shires, Department of Pharmacology; JS Pulido, Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Iowa
Abstract: 

Progressive global stratospheric ozone depletion and the resulting elevation in ultraviolet radiation presents the prospect of a significant human health hazard. In the eye, the cornea, lens, and retina have well-established UV radiation pathologies. Increased UV exposures may also intensify the UV-phototoxicity in some therapeutic agents widely used by the general public. This study examined a number of anti-inflammatory analgesics know to be UV-phototoxic in the skin, but with as yet unreported effects in the eye. Study investigators hypothesize that these widely used drugs compound the risk of retinal damage in people who have outdoor occupations.