Can citalopram affect your eyes?

Yes, citalopram can affect your eyes, with dry eye being a commonly associated side effect.

Citalopram, an antidepressant, can influence various bodily functions, including those related to eye health. While generally well-tolerated, it's important to be aware of potential ocular effects.

Dry Eye: A Primary Ocular Effect

One of the most notable ways citalopram can affect your eyes is by contributing to dry eye syndrome. Certain antidepressants, including citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, alprazolam, and sertraline, have been linked to a higher incidence of dry eye. This condition occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort and potential vision issues.

Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye can manifest with a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, impacting daily life.

• Common Symptoms of Dry Eye:
  • A gritty or sandy sensation, as if something is in your eye
  • Stinging or burning
  • Redness
  • Blurred vision, especially after prolonged eye use (e.g., reading, computer work)
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Watery eyes (paradoxically, as a reflex to irritation)
  • Difficulty wearing contact lenses

Why Does Citalopram Cause Dry Eye?

Antidepressants like citalopram can interfere with the normal functioning of glands that produce tears, leading to reduced tear film production or altered tear composition. This disruption can result in the symptoms described above.

Other Potential Ocular Side Effects

Beyond dry eye, other less common but possible eye-related side effects associated with citalopram or antidepressants in general include:

• Blurred Vision: This can occur due to effects on the muscles that control the lens of the eye, making it harder to focus, especially at close distances.
• Pupil Dilation (Mydriasis): Your pupils may become larger, which can lead to increased sensitivity to light and, in rare cases, may pose a risk for individuals predisposed to certain types of glaucoma (angle-closure glaucoma).
• Double Vision (Diplopia): Although less common, some individuals might experience seeing two images of a single object.

Managing Ocular Side Effects

If you experience any eye-related side effects while taking citalopram, it's crucial to discuss them with your healthcare provider. Many symptoms can be managed effectively.

Practical Tips for Dry Eye Relief:

• Over-the-Counter Eye Drops: Use artificial tears frequently to lubricate your eyes. Choose preservative-free options if you use them more than four times a day.
• Warm Compresses: Applying a warm, moist cloth to your eyelids can help stimulate tear production and soothe irritation.
• Humidifiers: Using a humidifier at home or work can add moisture to the air, reducing tear evaporation.
• Avoid Irritants: Minimize exposure to smoke, wind, and dry air. Consider wearing wraparound sunglasses outdoors.
• Blink More Frequently: Especially when using screens, consciously blinking more often helps spread tears across the eye surface.
• Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day.

When to Seek Medical Advice:

• Persistent or Worsening Symptoms: If dry eye or blurred vision does not improve with home remedies.
• New or Severe Symptoms: Such as sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, or seeing halos around lights (especially if you have a history of glaucoma or a family history of narrow angles).
• Impact on Daily Life: If ocular side effects are significantly affecting your ability to perform daily activities.

Your doctor may adjust your medication, recommend specific eye treatments, or refer you to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation.

Summary of Citalopram's Ocular Effects