Ivacaftor-induced Cataracts

Ivacaftor is a medicine used for cystic fibrosis (CF). In some children and teens who take ivacaftor (by itself or combined with other CF drugs), doctors have found non-congenital lens opacities—that’s the medical way of saying cataracts that are not present at birth. A cataract is when the usually clear lens inside the eye becomes cloudy, which can blur vision or cause glare. Because of this risk, the official drug labels recommend eye exams before starting and during treatment for pediatric patients. FDA Access Data

The same warning appears for ivacaftor alone (Kalydeco) and for combinations like lumacaftor/ivacaftor (Orkambi), tezacaftor/ivacaftor (Symdeko), and elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (Trikafta). In animal studies with young rats, cataracts appeared after ivacaftor exposure, which is another reason for caution in young children. FDA Access Data+3FDA Access Data+3FDA Access Data+3

What we know: Cataracts have been reported in pediatric patients exposed to ivacaftor-containing regimens. Labels advise baseline and follow-up eye exams. What we don’t fully know: the exact mechanism—the step-by-step reason the lens gets cloudy—is still unclear. Research and reviews point out the signal in juvenile animals and in children, and lab work with human “mini-lenses” suggests high ivacaftor exposure can reduce lens transparency and focusing ability. But we don’t yet have a single proven pathway. FDA Access DataPMCScienceDirect

• Young patients (infants, toddlers, children, adolescents) who take ivacaftor-containing treatment are the main group where cases have been seen, which is why pediatric eye screening is recommended. FDA Access Data

• There are also reports of cataracts in newborns whose mothers used elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor during pregnancy and breastfeeding (these are congenital cataracts in babies exposed before birth). This is closely related and underscores the need for pediatric eye checks where exposure occurred. Cystic Fibrosis Journal

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Types of cataracts seen with ivacaftor exposure

Doctors have described mainly two patterns:

1. Posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSC) — a small, dense clouding just in front of the back “capsule” of the lens. PSC often causes glare and problems with bright light. Reports suggest PSC appears more often in older children/teens on ivacaftor. PMC

2. Cortical cataracts — wedge-shaped, spoke-like opacities starting at the lens edge and moving inward. A review reported cortical cataracts in some children aged 2–6 years on ivacaftor. PMC

(While other cataract types exist, these two patterns are the ones most often mentioned around ivacaftor exposure in children.)

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Causes

Think of these as direct causes and co-factors that can raise the chance or speed up clouding once it starts. I’ll mark items with (strong evidence) when supported directly by drug labels or clinical/animal data, and (plausible/co-factor) when they’re reasonable risk amplifiers in context.

1. Taking ivacaftor (the core exposure). Cataracts have been reported in pediatric patients on ivacaftor; hence the label warning and screening advice. (strong evidence) FDA Access Data

2. Taking ivacaftor in a combination product (Orkambi, Symdeko, Trikafta). These regimens also carry pediatric cataract warnings. (strong evidence) FDA Access Data+2FDA Access Data+2

3. Young age (infant/child lenses are still developing and may be more vulnerable). Labels emphasize pediatric risk; juvenile animals were sensitive. (strong evidence) FDA Access Data

4. High exposure due to drug interactions—for example, taking strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitors (like ketoconazole or fluconazole) or consuming grapefruit, which can raise ivacaftor levels. (strong evidence) FDA Access Data

5. Longer duration on therapy—more time for clouding to develop. This is a plausible time-on-drug effect seen in many drug-related toxicities. (plausible/co-factor)

6. Concomitant corticosteroid use (oral or drops), which is a known cataract risk and specifically mentioned in reports where other risk factors were present. (strong evidence) FDA Access Data

7. Past head/neck radiation—also named as a co-factor in case descriptions. (strong evidence) FDA Access Data

8. Maternal exposure during pregnancy/breastfeeding to an ivacaftor-containing regimen (ETI), which has been linked with congenital bilateral cataracts in some newborns. (strong evidence for exposure association) Cystic Fibrosis Journal

9. Liver impairment (the liver clears ivacaftor). If the liver is not working well, ivacaftor levels can rise, potentially increasing risk. (strong evidence for exposure differences; risk inference) FDA Access Data

10. Dosing errors/overexposure (too much ivacaftor by mistake can spike levels). (plausible/co-factor)

11. Nutritional antioxidant deficiency (low vitamins A/E), more common in CF, could make the lens less able to handle oxidative stress. (plausible/co-factor, CF context)

12. Cystic fibrosis–related diabetes (CFRD). Diabetes is a general cataract risk and is common in CF. (plausible/co-factor)

13. High UV/sunlight exposure without eye protection, which speeds cataract formation in general. (plausible/co-factor)

14. Eye trauma (even minor repeated trauma can predispose the lens to clouding). (plausible/co-factor)

15. Smoking or secondhand smoke exposure in adolescents—another general cataract promoter. (plausible/co-factor)

16. Rapid eye growth phases in early childhood (faster lens changes may make toxicity more apparent). (plausible/co-factor)

17. Concurrent eye inflammation (e.g., uveitis) that may accelerate lens changes, especially if treated with steroids. (plausible/co-factor)

18. Genetic predisposition to lens changes (family history of early cataract). (plausible/co-factor)

19. Very high cumulative light exposure in neonatal care settings (prematurity/ICU lighting), particularly if combined with other risks. (plausible/co-factor)

20. Other medicines with cataract risk (e.g., long-term steroids again, or rare cases with other systemic drugs), stacking risks when used alongside ivacaftor. (plausible/co-factor)

Notes on strength of evidence: Items 1–4, 6–8, and 9 are directly supported by official labeling and published reports; the others are reasonable risk amplifiers drawn from general cataract science and CF clinical context. FDA Access Data+3FDA Access Data+3FDA Access Data+3Cystic Fibrosis Journal

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Symptoms

1. Blurry vision — things look out of focus because the lens is cloudy and no longer bends light cleanly.

2. Glare — bright light “flares” or seems too intense due to light scattering inside the eye.

3. Halos around lights — rings around headlights or lamps, mostly at night.

4. Trouble seeing in bright sun — the haze in the lens makes daylight feel harsh.

5. Poor night vision — dim environments become harder to navigate.

6. Colors look faded — whites look yellowish, and colors lose their “pop.”

7. Reading difficulty — small print becomes hard to see even with good lighting.

8. Frequent “stronger glasses” requests — vision changes that don’t fully fix with a new prescription.

9. Monocular double vision (double image in one eye) — the light scatter can create a “ghost” image.

10. Eye strain and headaches — squinting and focusing harder to overcome blur can tire the eyes.

11. Light sensitivity (photophobia) — discomfort or pain with bright light.

12. Squinting — a child narrows their eyelids to reduce glare and improve focus.

13. Rubbing the eyes — a non-verbal hint in younger kids that something looks “wrong.”

14. Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus) in infants — the eyes “wiggle” because they aren’t seeing clearly.

15. Strabismus (eye misalignment) or delayed visual milestones — in very young children, poor lens clarity can disrupt normal visual development.

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Diagnostic tests

The aim is to confirm the cataract, understand its type and effect on vision, and check for related risks (like high ivacaftor levels or other conditions that might make cataracts more likely). I’ll group tests by Physical Exam, Manual/clinical eye tests, Laboratory/Pathological, Electrodiagnostic, and Imaging.

A) Physical exam

1. Medication and treatment history
   The clinician confirms which ivacaftor regimen, start date, dose, and any interacting drugs (e.g., ketoconazole/fluconazole) or grapefruit intake that can raise ivacaftor levels. This is crucial context for risk. FDA Access Data

2. General observation in the clinic
   Watching how a child tracks faces or toys, and whether they squint or avoid bright light, can hint at reduced clarity.

3. External eye inspection with a penlight
   A quick look at the front of the eye can sometimes show lens haze and check for other issues (redness, eyelid problems) that might explain symptoms.

4. Red reflex check
   Shining a light into the eye gives a reddish “reflection” from the retina. An uneven or dull red reflex can suggest a cataract is blocking light.

5. Pupil reactions (light reflex)
   Ensures the pupils react normally and there isn’t another problem (like nerve issues) mimicking vision loss.

B) Manual/clinical eye tests

6. Age-appropriate visual acuity (Snellen chart for older kids, LEA symbols or Teller cards for younger ones)
   Measures how small a child can read/recognize. Helps track severity and progression.

7. Pinhole test
   Looking through a tiny hole can sharpen vision if the problem is mainly focusing/optics; if vision stays poor, that supports a media opacity like cataract.

8. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy
   A microscope with a bright, thin beam shows where the cataract sits (posterior subcapsular vs cortical), how dense it is, and whether the back of the cornea or the front of the lens capsule has issues.

9. Dilated lens and fundus exam
   After dilating drops, the lens and the back of the eye are examined more fully. This helps map the cataract and rule out other eye disease.

10. Glare testing
    Measures how well vision holds up under bright light—useful when a cataract causes outsized glare compared to its size.

11. Contrast sensitivity testing (e.g., Pelli-Robson)
    Cataracts often reduce contrast, not just letter size. This test shows how washed-out the world looks to the patient.

12. Retinoscopy/refraction
    Checks how the eye focuses light and whether frequent prescription changes might be driven by lens changes.

C) Laboratory and pathological tests

These do not diagnose a cataract (that’s done with an eye exam), but they look for why risk might be higher or help manage exposure.

13. Liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin)
    Ivacaftor is processed by the liver. Abnormal liver tests may relate to altered drug handling and prompt dose review—part of labeled monitoring with ivacaftor regimens. FDA Access Data

14. Glucose/HbA1c (screening for CF-related diabetes)
    Diabetes increases general cataract risk; in CF, checking for CFRD is standard medical care.

15. Vitamin A and E levels
    CF can cause fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies; low antioxidants may make the lens more vulnerable to oxidative stress.

16. Serum calcium (± phosphate)
    Severe metabolic disturbances can promote lens changes; while uncommon, it’s reasonable in unexplained or rapid pediatric lens opacities.

D) Electrodiagnostic tests

17. Visual evoked potential (VEP)
    Measures the brain’s response to visual signals. In very young children, VEP helps determine how well signals get through, especially when the child cannot describe vision clearly.

18. Electroretinogram (ERG)
    Checks the retina’s electrical response. Useful when a dense cataract blocks the view of the retina and you need to ensure the retina is healthy before any surgery decisions.

E) Imaging tests

19. Anterior segment OCT
    A non-contact scan that shows high-resolution cross-sections of the cornea and lens area. It can help measure and document the cataract and support follow-up.

20. B-scan ocular ultrasound
    If the cataract is so dense the doctor can’t see the retina, this ultrasound looks through the cloudy lens to make sure the back of the eye is okay (no retinal detachment or tumors).

Non-pharmacological treatments

These do not remove a cataract. They help you function, reduce symptoms, and buy time until surgery is needed (if ever). Each line lists description – purpose – how it helps.

1. Regular eye checks (baseline + follow-up in kids on ivacaftor) – To catch lens changes early – Ensures any opacities are found and tracked before they harm vision. FDA Access Data+1

2. Bright, targeted lighting – Easier reading/near work – More light improves contrast on the page or screen. National Eye Institute

3. Anti-glare sunglasses (100% UVA/UVB) + brimmed hat – Reduce glare and UV exposure – Lowers light scatter and may slow UV-related lens stress. National Eye Institute+1

4. Polarized sunglasses – Cut reflected glare (roads/water) – Improves comfort and safety outdoors. TIME

5. Yellow/amber tints or blue-blocking filters – Improves contrast for some – Filters short-wavelength scatter that worsens glare. (Use based on comfort.) PMC

6. Magnifiers (handheld/stand/electronic) – Enlarge print – Compensate for reduced clarity. National Eye Institute

7. Bigger fonts/high-contrast displays – Easier reading – Digital accessibility features reduce visual strain. National Eye Institute

8. Update glasses/contact lens prescription – Optimize remaining vision – Corrects refractive changes that cataracts can cause. Mayo Clinic

9. Night-driving adjustments (avoid if unsafe) – Safety – Cataract glare is worst at night; adjust habits until treated. American Academy of Ophthalmology

10. Task-specific readers (single-vision near) – Crisp near vision – Strong near add can help when multifocals struggle with glare. Mayo Clinic

11. Room glare control (matte bulbs/shades, avoid down-lights) – Comfort – Reduces disability glare indoors. American Academy of Ophthalmology

12. Consistent diabetes control if applicable – Slows metabolic lens stress – Hyperglycemia accelerates lens clouding. Mayo Clinic

13. Smoking cessation – Lowers oxidative stress risk – Smoking is a cataract risk factor. American Academy of Ophthalmology

14. UV-safety education for kids on modulators – Parent awareness – Encourages early protective habits. National Eye Institute

15. Contrast-enhancing task tools (black-on-white, bold pens) – Practical clarity – Improves legibility when contrast sensitivity is reduced. PMC

16. Workplace/school accommodations – Better visibility – Seating, bigger print, extra lighting. National Eye Institute

17. Glare/contrast testing-guided adjustments – Personalized tips – Objective tests identify which lighting/tints help most. AAO Journal

18. Regular optometry follow-up if asymptomatic – Surveillance – Aligns with cautious pediatric screening approach. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists

19. Protective eyewear for sports – Prevent added eye injury – Trauma can compound visual issues. Ohio State Health

20. Shared decision-making about timing of surgery – Safety + function – Surgery is done when vision limits life tasks; timing is individualized. American Academy of Ophthalmology

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Drug treatments

Important truth first: No medicine (drops or pills) can reverse or dissolve cataracts. Surgery is the only proven cure when vision becomes limiting. Medicines below are supportive (for comfort) or used around surgery to prevent inflammation/infection — not to melt a cataract. American Academy of OphthalmologyNCBI

1. Preservative-free artificial tears (ocular lubricant)
   Class: lubricant drops. Dose: 1 drop to affected eye(s) 3–6×/day as needed (PF vials if frequent). When: any time for dryness/irritation from glare/strain. Purpose: comfort, surface quality. Mechanism: stabilizes tear film to reduce scatter/irritation. Side effects: rare irritation.

2. Moxifloxacin 0.5% eye drops (peri-operative antibiotic)
   Class: topical fluoroquinolone. Typical dose: 1 drop QID for ~1 week after surgery (surgeon-specific). Purpose: lower endophthalmitis risk. Mechanism: broad antibacterial coverage. Side effects: transient sting, rare allergy. NCBI

3. Prednisolone acetate 1% eye drops (post-op steroid)
   Class: topical corticosteroid. Dose: 1 drop QID then taper over 3–4 weeks (per surgeon). Purpose: control inflammation after cataract extraction. Mechanism: suppresses cytokine-mediated inflammation. Side effects: raised eye pressure, delayed healing, infection risk. NCBI

4. Difluprednate 0.05% eye drops (post-op steroid alternative)
   Class: potent topical steroid. Dose: 1 drop BID–QID then taper. Purpose/Mechanism/Side effects: as above; stronger, monitor IOP. NCBI

5. Ketorolac 0.5% eye drops (post-op NSAID)
   Class: topical NSAID. Dose: 1 drop QID starting 1 day pre-op to 2–4 weeks post-op (varies). Purpose: reduce inflammation and risk of cystoid macular edema (CME). Mechanism: COX inhibition. Side effects: sting, rare corneal issues. ScienceDirect

6. Bromfenac 0.07% eye drops (post-op NSAID alternative)
   Dose: 1 drop once daily 2–4 weeks. Purpose/Mechanism/Side effects: as above. ScienceDirect

7. Cyclopentolate 1% (short course post-op if ciliary spasm)
   Class: cycloplegic. Dose: 1 drop BID–TID for few days if prescribed. Purpose: relieve ciliary spasm pain/photophobia. Mechanism: paralyzes accommodation. Side effects: light sensitivity, near blur.

8. Hypertonic saline 5% drops/ointment (if corneal edema post-op)
   Class: hypertonic agent. Dose: drops QID ± ointment HS for days–weeks if surgeon advises. Purpose: draws fluid out of cornea to clear vision. Side effects: sting.

9. Antiglaucoma drops (only if steroid response IOP rise)
   Examples: timolol, brimonidine per IOP. Dose: per doctor. Purpose: control pressure. Mechanism: ↓aqueous production/↑outflow. Side effects: drug-specific.

10. Systemic diabetes meds (e.g., insulin/metformin) — if diabetic
    Dose: individualized by primary/endocrine team. Purpose: good glycemic control reduces lens stress and helps surgical outcomes. Mechanism: reduces glucose-driven lens changes. Side effects: drug-specific; managed by the prescriber. Mayo Clinic

What we do not use to “treat” cataracts: so-called “anticataract drops,” herbal drops, or antioxidant eye drops are not proven to clear cataracts; major guidelines and reviews state surgery is the only effective treatment when needed. American Academy of OphthalmologyNCBI

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Dietary, molecular, and supportive supplements

Key principle: A healthy diet supports overall eye health, but supplements have not been proven to prevent or slow common cataracts in high-quality reviews. Use food-first strategies; discuss any supplement with your clinician, especially for children. PMCCochrane

1. Leafy greens (spinach, kale) — lutein/zeaxanthin
   Dose/serving: ~1–2 cups cooked/week or more. Function: macular pigments; general retinal support. Mechanism: antioxidant/blue-light filtering. Evidence: beneficial for macula; cataract prevention evidence is mixed. PMC

2. Eggs — dietary lutein/zeaxanthin in bioavailable form. Same notes as above.

3. Citrus/berries (vitamin C foods) — antioxidant support; Cochrane finds no clear benefit of vitamin C supplements for cataract; food intake is fine. PMC

4. Nuts/seeds (vitamin E, healthy fats) — general oxidative stress support; supplement trials show no cataract prevention benefit. PMC

5. Fatty fish (omega-3s) — supports retinal/tear film health; not a cataract cure.

6. Whole grains/legumes — better glycemic control → less lens stress if diabetic.

7. Hydration — supports tear film and comfort.

8. Colorful vegetables (carotenoids) — broad antioxidant intake.

9. Zinc-rich foods (seafood/legumes) — retinal enzymes; not a cataract fix.

10. Green tea — polyphenols; supportive antioxidant beverage.

11. Turmeric in food — curcumin is antioxidant/anti-inflammatory in lab studies; no clinical evidence to reverse cataract.

12. AREDS2-style supplements — designed for macular degeneration, not cataracts; do not use for cataract prevention unless instructed for AMD. NCBI

13. Multivitamin at RDA — fine for general nutrition; not a cataract therapy.

14. Quit smoking + limit alcohol — lifestyle “supplements” that truly cut oxidative load. American Academy of Ophthalmology

15. Sun-safe habits — UV-blocking sunglasses/hat function like a “behavioral supplement” that matters. National Eye Institute

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Regenerative / stem cell” drugs

Right now there are no approved regenerative or stem-cell drugs that reverse cataracts in people. Research is ongoing (e.g., molecular targets to clear protein clumps in animal lenses), but this is not clinical care yet and has no approved dosing. If you read about lanosterol drops, chaperone eye drops, or experimental targets (e.g., RNF114 research), these are lab/animal-level findings or very early exploration. Do not use unregulated products. National Institutes of Health (NIH)

• Bottom line: Discuss any “miracle drops” with a licensed ophthalmologist; the proven path when vision is limited remains surgery. American Academy of Ophthalmology

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Surgeries

1. Phacoemulsification with intraocular lens (IOL) (most common)
   Procedure: Tiny incision; ultrasound tip breaks up the cloudy lens; pieces are removed; a clear IOL is inserted. Why: Safest, fastest recovery; excellent vision outcomes. Mayo Clinic

2. Femtosecond laser–assisted cataract surgery (FLACS)
   Procedure: Laser helps with corneal incisions, capsulotomy, and lens fragmentation; the rest is similar to phaco. Why: Precision steps; potential benefits in selected eyes; higher cost and not always necessary. Verywell Health

3. Extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE)
   Procedure: Larger incision; lens removed in one piece; IOL placed. Why: Used when the lens is extremely dense or resources limit phaco. Mayo Clinic

4. Intracapsular cataract extraction (ICCE) (rare now)
   Procedure: Removes lens and capsule; often needs additional fixation methods. Why: Uncommon; reserved for special cases. Health

5. Posterior capsulotomy (YAG laser; done later if needed)
   Procedure: If a “secondary cataract” (posterior capsular opacification) develops months/years after surgery, a quick outpatient laser opens the cloudy capsule. Why: Restores clarity. Verywell Health

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Prevention tips

1. For children starting ivacaftor-containing therapy: get a baseline eye exam and periodic follow-up. FDA Access Data+1

2. UV protection daily (100% UVA/UVB sunglasses + hat). National Eye Institute

3. Don’t smoke; if you do, quit. American Academy of Ophthalmology

4. Keep diabetes well-controlled. Mayo Clinic

5. Use the safest effective steroid dose, for the shortest time needed, if steroids are medically necessary. (Steroids are a general cataract risk factor.) The Royal College of Ophthalmologists

6. Healthy, balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole foods (food-first approach). PMC

7. Eye-safe habits for kids (sports eye protection). Ohio State Health

8. Regular optometry/ophthalmology check-ups. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists

9. Know that supplements haven’t proven cataract prevention — don’t rely on pills for this. PMC

10. If pregnant and on CFTR modulators, ensure coordinated care with maternal-fetal medicine and pediatric ophthalmology after birth. (Rare in-utero cataract reports exist.) ScienceDirect

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When to see a doctor urgently

• Rapid drop in vision, severe glare/halos, or new double vision out of one eye.

• Eye pain, redness, or sudden light sensitivity.

• If your child on ivacaftor squints, tilts head, avoids bright light, or sits too close to screens/books.

• Before starting ivacaftor-containing therapy (baseline exam) and regularly afterward in pediatrics. FDA Access Data+1

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What to eat and what to avoid

Eat more of:

1. Leafy greens (spinach, kale) — lutein/zeaxanthin-rich, overall eye health. PMC

2. Eggs — bioavailable carotenoids.

3. Citrus/kiwi/berries — vitamin C foods.

4. Fatty fish (salmon/sardines) — omega-3s, general ocular support.

5. Nuts/seeds/olive oil — vitamin E and healthy fats.

Limit/avoid:

1. Smoking/vaping — increases cataract risk. American Academy of Ophthalmology
2. Excess alcohol — adds oxidative stress.
3. High-sugar spikes if diabetic — target steady glucose. Mayo Clinic
4. Harsh midday sun without protection — always wear UV-blocking sunglasses/hat. National Eye Institute
5. Unproven “anticataract” drops/supplements sold online — no solid human evidence. American Academy of Ophthalmology

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 FAQs

1) Should we stop ivacaftor if a cataract is found?
Not automatically. Many reported cataracts were small and not visually significant. Because ivacaftor gives major CF benefits, any change should be a shared decision among the CF team, parents, and an ophthalmologist, after careful eye evaluation. Labels advise screening, not automatic discontinuation. FDA Access Data+1

2) Can eye drops cure a cataract?
No. If the cataract truly limits vision and daily activities, surgery is the proven fix. American Academy of Ophthalmology

3) How common are ivacaftor-related cataracts?
They appear uncommon; exact risk remains uncertain. Reports exist in pediatric clinical programs and post-marketing safety summaries; risk factors like steroid exposure may contribute. FDA Access Data+1

4) What age is most at risk?
Cases have been reported mainly in children and adolescents using ivacaftor-containing regimens; that’s why pediatric screening is recommended. FDA Access Data

5) Can cataracts be present at birth from ivacaftor?
Rare reports describe congenital cataracts after in-utero exposure to CFTR modulators; causality is not fully established. Pediatric ophthalmology follow-up is prudent. ScienceDirect

6) What does a “baseline exam” include?
Vision testing, slit-lamp lens evaluation, and dilated fundus exam; sometimes photos or measurements for comparison later. American Academy of Ophthalmology

7) How do we monitor progression?
Symptoms + clinical exam; sometimes contrast/glare tests, Scheimpflug densitometry, or straylight measurements to track the functional impact. PubMedOCULUS Main

8) When is surgery considered?
When vision problems interfere with everyday life (reading, schoolwork, driving, play) or if the cataract blocks the view needed to monitor/treat the retina. American Academy of Ophthalmology

9) Is cataract surgery safe for children?
Pediatric cataract care is specialized. Timing, IOL choice, amblyopia risk, and long-term follow-up are tailored by a pediatric ophthalmologist.

10) Will glasses still be needed after surgery?
Often yes for reading if a standard monofocal IOL is used; premium IOLs may reduce dependence but aren’t for everyone. Aetna

11) How long is recovery after surgery?
Many people see better within days; full healing typically takes weeks; you’ll use drops for several weeks and attend follow-ups. TIME

12) Can UV protection really help?
UV contributes to lens oxidative stress. Daily UV-blocking sunglasses and hats are sensible and recommended. National Eye Institute

13) Do vitamins prevent cataracts?
High-quality reviews show no clear benefit from antioxidant supplements in preventing or slowing common cataracts. Focus on a healthy diet. PMC

14) What about “laser cataract surgery”?
It’s a laser-assisted version of standard surgery with potential advantages in selected cases; results are similar for many patients; cost can be higher. Verywell Health

15) Could other eye diseases be the real cause of blurry vision?
Yes. That’s why doctors check the retina and optic nerve (dilated exam, OCT) and may use potential acuity testing to estimate the benefit you’ll get after cataract removal. AAO Journal

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical  history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.

The article is written by Team RxHarun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members

Last Updated: August 09, 2025.