Effects and Pharmacological Use of Alkaloids on the Eyes

Abstract

Alkaloids can have a variety of effects on the eyes. Some alkaloids are used as a treatment for eye diseases, such as keratoconjunctivitis, but they are also toxic to the retina. Other alkaloids are known to protect neuroretina from damage caused by oxidative stress. Numerous ophthalmic drugs, such as glaucoma and antibiotic eye drops, have long been developed through alkaloids. In this chapter, we will introduce the beneficial and detrimental effects of alkaloids on the eye. In addition, the action of alkaloids as existing eye drops and the possibility of developing them as drugs in the future will be discussed.