Evidence of ocular side effects of SSRIs and new warnings

ABSTRACT FROM: Chen H, Lin C, Lai S, et al.. Association of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor use and acute angle-closure glaucoma. J Clin Psychiatry 2016;77:e692–6. What is already known on this topic Acute angle-closure glaucoma (AACG) may cause symptoms including eye pain, changes in vision, or swelling and redness and can rapidly lead to permanent blindness if not treated.1 Medications can precipitate AACG through adrenergic or anticholinergic-mediated pupillary dilation that results in the physical obstruction of the outflow of intraocular fluid in susceptible individuals. Case reports and a previous large database study from Ontario, Canada,2 have suggested an association between new use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and AACG. The potential mechanism underlying this association is unclear but may be related to effects on norepinephrine or serotonin receptors in the iris and ciliary body of the eye.3 Methods...
Source: Evidence-Based Mental Health - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Outcomes Source Type: research