World Glaucoma Week - Prescription Perils: What to Do When You've Lost Your Eye Medication

Mar 10, 2025 Glaucoma

World Glaucoma Week is an annual global initiative aimed at raising awareness about glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness. It encourages people to prioritise their eye health, undergo regular check-ups, and learn about the importance of early detection and treatment.

In the UK, a separate but also vitally important event, Glaucoma Awareness Week, takes place at the end of June and the beginning of July. This event serves as a crucial reminder of how silent and quickly progressing glaucoma can be, often showing no symptoms until vision loss has already begun.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve. This usually occurs when eye pressure (intraocular pressure or IOP) rises above normal levels. The optic nerve is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain, and any damage to it can lead to permanent vision loss. The most common form, open-angle glaucoma, develops gradually and painlessly, making regular eye exams essential for early detection. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness, which is why maintaining proper treatment and keeping on top of checks is essential.

What to Look Out For and the Importance of Testing

Glaucoma develops gradually and can go unnoticed for a long time. However, certain signs and risk factors can indicate a higher likelihood of developing the condition:

Blurred or patchy vision
Eye pain or pressure
Seeing halos around lights
Frequent changes in vision prescription
Family history of glaucoma
Age over 40

Regular eye tests are the best way to detect glaucoma early. The eye pressure test (tonometry) and optic nerve assessment help specialists diagnose and monitor the condition. In the UK, routine eye tests are available through the NHS for those at higher risk, such as individuals over 40 and those with a family history of glaucoma.

Why Is It Crucial to Maintain Your Glaucoma Medication Schedule?

Once diagnosed, managing glaucoma requires a consistent medication regime to prevent further vision deterioration. Most glaucoma treatments involve prescription eye drops designed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP), reducing the risk of optic nerve damage.

Missing doses can lead to spikes in eye pressure, increasing the risk of permanent vision loss. Unlike some medications where skipping a dose might not have immediate consequences, even a short lapse in glaucoma treatment can be dangerous.

What Steps Should You Take If You've Lost Your Prescription?

Losing your glaucoma medication can be stressful, but acting quickly can help prevent complications. Here’s what you should do:

Contact Your Healthcare Provider: Call your optometrist or GP immediately. They can issue a replacement prescription or advise on the best next steps.
Visit a Local Pharmacy: Some pharmacies can issue an emergency supply of certain medications while waiting for a prescription.
Check Your Online Pharmacy: Here at Simply Meds Online, our pharmacist can quickly ship out prescription refills, including emergency prescriptions.
Avoid Self-Medication: Never attempt to use alternative medications without consulting a professional, as improper treatment can worsen glaucoma.

How Can Simply Meds Online Help With Emergency Prescription Refills?

Online pharmacies provide a convenient and quick solution when you lose your prescription. Simply Meds Online offers a hassle-free way to order glaucoma medications, helping to ensure uninterrupted treatment. The benefits of using an online pharmacy include:

Fast and discreet delivery to your home
24/7 ordering without the need to visit a pharmacy in person
Genuine, approved medications that meet UK healthcare standards
Professional guidance from qualified pharmacists

By choosing our online pharmacy service, you can prevent treatment interruptions and keep your eye health on track.

Are There Risks Associated With Missing Doses of Glaucoma Medication?

Missing doses of glaucoma medication can have serious consequences. These include:

Increased intraocular pressure (IOP): Even a short break from medication can raise eye pressure, leading to further optic nerve damage.
Progressive vision loss: Since glaucoma damage is irreversible, any additional harm caused by missed doses cannot be undone.
Reduced effectiveness of treatment: Irregular use of medication may make it harder to control IOP in the long run.

If you accidentally miss a dose. If you forget or miss a dose, take/use your treatment when you remember. The exception to this is when it’s getting close to the usual next dose time. Never double up on your medication. Please make sure you read the patient information leaflet carefully to check what to do if you have missed a dose and check with a pharmacist if unsure.

Supporting Eye Health with Macushield and iCaps

While glaucoma medications directly manage eye pressure, supporting overall eye health through proper nutrition can also be beneficial. Macushield and iCaps are two eye health supplements that support vision and maintain healthy eyes. We offer both of these trusted brands here at Simply Meds Online.

Macushield

Macushield is an easy-to-take supplement containing lutein, meso-zeaxanthin, and zeaxanthin. These are powerful carotenoids that support macular health. These ingredients help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and blue light exposure, reducing the risk of age-related eye conditions. Macushield is especially beneficial for those looking to maintain strong vision and prevent degeneration.

iCaps by Alcon

iCaps is a high-quality eye supplement formulated with essential vitamins and minerals, including:

Vitamin C and E – Powerful antioxidants that protect against free radical damage
Zinc and Copper – Support overall eye function and immune health
Lutein and Zeaxanthin – Aid in filtering harmful blue light and protecting the retina

These supplements are not a substitute for glaucoma treatment but can provide additional support for maintaining healthy eyes as part of a comprehensive eye care regimen.

Final Thoughts

Managing glaucoma requires dedication to a strict medication schedule, regular eye exams, and a proactive approach to eye health. Losing your prescription or leaving meds behind when elsewhere can be worrying. Thankfully, by acting swiftly and using the online pharmacy service at Simply Meds Online, you can continue your treatment without delay.

Supporting eye health with supplements like Macushield and iCaps can also contribute to long-term vision wellness. This World Glaucoma Week, take a moment to prioritise your eye health, book an eye test, and spread awareness to protect yourself and your loved ones from the silent threat of glaucoma.