September 17, 2012 
Certain antidepressants are associated with an increased chance of developing cataract. This was confirmed by the study of the scientists from British Columbia University…
The research, which is based on data from 200 000 residents of Quebec, revealed statistical link between cataract and drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and other specific drugs from that group.
The study, published online in the journal Ophthalmology, does not prove but only discovers association between the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and the development of cataract. Therefore, experts have suggested that this finding will have to be confirmed byl further research. Specifically, the study did not include smoking, which is one of the risks of developing cataract.
This study is the first to establish a link between this class of drugs and cataract in humans. Previous research in animals has shown that the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
“When you look at the ratio of benefits and adverse effects of these drugs, the benefits of treating depression is still more important than the risk of developing cataract. It is treatable and relatively benign,” said Dr. Mahyar Etminan of the Centre for Clinical Epidemiology from Vancouver.
The researchers found that patients taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were 15 percent more likely to diagnose cataract or to undergo cataract surgery.
The degree of risk among specific and different types of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors varied considerably. Taking fluvoxamine (Luvox) led to a 51 percent higher risk for cataract surgery, while venlafaxine (Effexor) carried 34 percent higher risk. The link between cataract surgery and medication is not detected in people who were taking fluoxetine (Prozac), citalopram (Celexa) and sertraline (Zoloft).
“While these results are surprising, and can serve as input to psychiatrists when prescribing antidepressants, discovery should not be cause for panic among patients who take these drugs, say experts.
Taken from: www.ordinacija.hr