Does Cymbalta affect vision? (3+ factors)

In this article, we will answer the question “Does Cymbalta affect vision?”. We will discuss what research has to say in this regard, and what factors can contribute to vision changes while taking Cymbalta. We will also discuss some management tips to overcome this side effect.

Does Cymbalta affect vision?

Yes, Cymbalta can affect vision in some patients as a side effect of treatment. The cases of visual disturbances due to Cymbalta may be rare but they do exist. This side effect may occur at the start of treatment and tends to self-resolve after your body adjusts to the medication. Patients have experienced this side effect with other antidepressants as well like Fluvoxamine, Sertraline, Escitalopram, and Bupropion.

Cymbalta (also known as Duloxetine) is an antidepressant belonging to the class of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and is approved by the FDA for a variety of conditions. Visual disturbances like blurry or cloudy vision have been reported as a side effect by some individuals.

Keep in mind that each person reacts to the medication differently, so the side effects may also vary from person to person. Some people may experience this side effect, some may not. It is generally not something that you should be worried about as the changes in vision tend to subside after a few weeks of treatment.

What does research suggest?

Different research studies have been published that list visual disturbances as a side effect of Duloxetine. Many patients have reported this as a side effect.

A case report assessing reversible cycloplegia in a 24-year-old patient undergoing treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) with Duloxetine stated that the patient experienced visual impairment and light sensitivity which led her to seek medical assistance. The eye pain and visual disturbances took 4 weeks to resolve completely after Duloxetine discontinuation (2).

Another study assessing the safety profile of Duloxetine reported that the incidence of adverse events like nausea, paresthesias, diarrhoea and blurred vision increased with an increase in the dosage of Duloxetine (3).

A research study evaluating Duloxetine exposure in individuals reported that a patient presented to the hospital with a Duloxetine overdose and had the symptoms of seizures, irritability, anxiety and blurred vision (4).

A case study of acute angle-closure glaucoma in an 81-year-old patient concluded that the ocular problems experienced by the patient were due to Duloxetine. The patient presented to the emergency department with eye pain and blurred vision two days after starting Duloxetine (5). 

What is the mechanism behind Cymbalta-induced vision changes?

The exact mechanism behind Cymbalta-induced vision changes is not known, but it may be linked to serotonin levels in the brain. Cymbalta is an SNRI and it increases the levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. It is also known to increase dopamine levels (6).

The visual system of our body is also interlinked with receptors of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. When changes in the levels of these neurotransmitters occur, they may lead towards visual disturbances (7).

However, this is just a proposition of the mechanism through which Cymbalta can affect your vision. This may vary from person to person, and sometimes Cymbalta may not be the cause of your altered vision. Consult your healthcare provider if you are taking Cymbalta and experience any vision changes.

What factors can induce vision changes while on Cymbalta?

Dosage of medication: Dosage of Cymbalta can affect vision changes in individuals. An increased dosage can cause increased visual disturbances (3).

Duration of use: Duration of Cymbalta use can be a factor to induce vision changes. Some people on Cymbalta may experience blurred vision at the start of treatment and after a few weeks of using the medication, the symptoms may resolve.

Other medications: If you are using any other medication while on Cymbalta, make sure to tell your healthcare provider about them. Cymbalta can interact with other medications to produce visual disturbances.

Individual physiology: Each individual is different, and may react to Cymablta differently. Some individuals receiving treatment with this medication may experience ocular problems, while some may not.

Patient medical history: Individual medical history plays a vital role in the appearance of side effects. Having experienced similar side effects in the past with other medications can make you more prone to Cymbalta-induced vision changes.

What are some common Cymbalta-induced vision problems?

Some commonly experienced problems with the use of Cymbalta are as follows:

• Light sensitivity
• Eye pain
• Blurred vision
• Problems in focusing
• Visual disturbances

In rare conditions, Cymbalta might even cause:

• Cycloplegia
• Acute angle-closure glaucoma

Keep in mind that not all individuals may experience these symptoms while on Cymbalta and if you feel anything out of the ordinary happening with your vision, it is better to consult your healthcare provider.

How to manage Cymbalta-induced vision changes?

Although vision changes do subside on their own when your body adjusts to Cymbalta, you can do a few things just to be extra safe. Here are some things that you should do if you experience Cymbalta-induced vision changes:

Consult your healthcare provider

If you are experiencing vision changes while on Cymbalta, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider regarding your symptoms. Your doctor will assess your situation, find out the underlying cause of your visual disturbances and advise on proper management strategies. Your doctor may also change the dosage of Cymbalta, or give you an alternative medication if needed.

Go for an eye exam

Sometimes, only a doctor’s appointment might not be enough. Your healthcare provider may not find out the cause of your ocular problems. In this case, your doctor may recommend an eye examination to figure out the cause and severity of your situation.

Do not stop Cymbalta

If you feel that Cymbalta is the causative agent of your problems, do not stop taking the medication abruptly. You should not make any changes to your medication or its dosage, without proper guidance from your healthcare provider.

Monitor your symptoms

You should keep track of your symptoms and if you feel anything out of the ordinary, contact your doctor immediately for advice.

To the best of my knowledge, and according to various research studies, it is evident that Cymbalta can cause visual disturbances as a side effect at the initiation of treatment. This side effect may subside once the body adjusts to the medication. However, not everyone experiences this side effect. If you do experience Cymbalta-induced vision changes, make sure to contact your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and a proper management plan.

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