Why do pupils dilate when on drugs

More ongoing research will be able to give a clearer answer in the future. When your pupils are dilated as a result of drug use or any other reason, they can cause you discomfort.

Remember: dilated pupils let in greater amounts of light. When you take in more light, normal light levels like an average sunny or semi-cloudy day can seem overwhelmingly bright to you.

You will probably be very sensitive to any light sources while your pupils are dilated. To help make yourself more comfortable, you can wear protective eye gear to help shield your eyes from light levels. For example, many people use either photochromic lenses in their glasses or wear sunglasses. Photochromic lenses adjust to the light levels automatically, darkening and lightening in response to sunny or dark environments.

If you ever have any major concerns about abnormal pupil sizes, consult with an eye specialist to ensure you remain involved and aware about your health. Our holistic and individualized treatment approach can help you turn your life around.

Call us today at to get premier addiction treatment today. Opioids generally make your pupils smaller. Yes, both prescription, over-the-counter, and illicit drugs can all cause dilated pupils.

Drug interactions in the body often affect neurotransmitters in your brain. Drugs that can dilate pupils include: antihistamines, anticonvulsants, anticholinergics, antidepressants, benzodiazepines, decongestants, dopamine precursors, mydriatics, stimulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, amphetamines, bath salts, cocaine, crystal meth, ecstasy, and ketamine.

Drugs that constrict pupils include: oxycodone, fentanyl, morphine, codeine, and heroin. Not knowing what your child is doing can be nerve-wracking and you may be unsure about how to move forward. In this article, we will outline what substances cause specific effects on the eyes to help you find the answers and move towards finding help.

Some substances can make the pupil dilate, growing larger or wider. In some cases, the iris may be barely visible. Dilation can indicate numerous things including both withdrawal or overdose. In most cases, drugs that cause this symptom may include:. Sometimes, these drugs will also cause changes in eye movement. Rapid movement, quivering, or blurred vision can also be indicators that these drugs are being used. This chart can help you determine if your son or daughter may be using drugs.

Read below for more details on signs and symptoms. Other common signs of intoxication indicated by the eyes include:. Almost every substance that is taken in excess has the potential to cause changes in the eyes of the user. Here are specific changes in pupils, eye motion, or vision that often indicate intoxication or overdose based on the specific type of substance.

Changes to eyes, vision, and within the brain are a few of the various serious health consequences associated with prolonged addiction. Intoxicating substances can cause a number of severe health complications and may ultimately lead to overdose or death. The most effective way to prevent or slow the side effects of substance abuse is for an individual to seek help at detox and then a substance abuse treatment facility. If you suspect your loved one is struggling with addiction, you should reach out for help from a medical professional.

PAX Memphis is available to help your loved one recover from substance abuse — call us today! All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional. She currently practices in the public domain in South Africa.

She has an interest in medical writing and has a keen interest in evidence-based medicine. How Drugs Affect the Pupils. Pupil Dilation Dilation of the pupil, also known as mydriasis , is the process in which the iris opens due to the activation of two muscle groups in the eye: the iris sphincter and the iris dilator.

Other common signs of intoxication indicated by the eyes include: Rapid involuntary movements of the eyeballs Redness or bloodshot eyes Changes in pupil size: constricted or dilated How Drugs Affect the Pupils Almost every substance that is taken in excess has the potential to cause changes in the eyes of the user.