Does Cymbalta cause eye problems? (+5 Factors)

In this article, we will discuss the eye problems that may occur with the use of Cymbalta and the research studies linking eye problems to Cymbalta. We will also explore the factors that may increase the risk of Cymbalta-induced eye problems and their management. 

Does Cymbalta cause eye problems?

Yes, Cymbalta may cause eye problems. Although eye problems are not frequently reported as a side effect of Cymbalta, different research studies have shown that Cymbalta can cause various eye problems in individuals who take this drug.

Cymbalta is an antidepressant medication that is commonly known as duloxetine. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which are responsible for regulating various functions in individuals such as mood, behavior, cognition, and sleep.

Like other antidepressants, Cymbalta can cause different adverse effects including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, and dry mouth. However, the occurrence of these side effects may vary among individuals. Various eye problems are also reported by individuals who use Cymbalta for their underlying anxiety, depression, or fibromyalgia. However, these problems do not occur in all the individuals who take this medication. 

What eye problems can occur with Cymbalta use?

The eye problems caused by Cymalta may vary from one individual to another. However, some commonly reported eye problems with Cymbalta in the scientific literature may include:

• blurred vision
• optic neuropathy
• dry eyes
• eye pain
• cataract 
• diplopia
• glaucoma
• loss of vision

What does research suggest?

Research indicates that the antidepressant medication Cymbalta may have diverse adverse effects on the eyes, such as optic neuropathy and loss of vision. A noteworthy case involves a woman using Cymbalta, aged more than 40 years, who experienced visual loss associated with retrobulbar neuritis caused by Cymbalta (2).

A study reported that Cymbalta caused blurred vision in an elderly woman with fibromyalgia. However, the incidence of this side effect of Cymbalta is low, and only 2% of individuals taking Cymbalta have reportedly experienced blurred vision (3). 

Another research study reported that an elderly woman experienced mydriasis and increased ocular pressure, leading to glaucoma after taking Cymbalta for a few days. The medication was discontinued, and an alternative was prescribed. Additionally, medications were provided to address the eye-related issues (4).

What factors can influence Cymbalta-induced eye problems?

Several factors may increase the risk of eye complications while using Cymbalta. These factors may include (1):

Age and gender: Elderly patients are more susceptible to the side effects of Cymbalta due to a decrease in medication clearance in geriatrics. Studies also suggest that women are more likely to experience Cymbalta’s side effects compared to men.

Environmental factors: Exposure to a dry environment may impact those concurrently using Cymbalta as it may enhance the likelihood of experiencing dry eyes. These environmental conditions may decrease humidity levels, thereby elevating the risk of experiencing dryness in the eyes.

Alcohol consumption: It is recommended to avoid alcohol consumption while taking Cymbalta to prevent certain side effects including dryness of the eyes caused by Cymbalta which may be exacerbated with concomitant alcohol use. 

Underlying medical conditions: People with pre-existing eye problems, such as cataracts, dry eyes, and pain and inflammation in the eyes, are at a higher risk of eye-related adverse effects when using Cymbalta.

Concurrent medications: Concurrent use of medications that may cause eye-related adverse effects with Cymbalta can further increase the risk of eye complications.

What to do if Cymbalta causes eye problems?

If you experience any persistent and serious eye-related adverse effects after using Cymbalta, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They will assess your condition and determine the actual cause of your eye problems. If it is found that Cymbalta is associated with your eye problems, your healthcare provider may suggest dose adjustments or alternatives to Cymbalta.

Dosage adjustment is done in cases where the benefits of therapy outweigh the risks, and a higher dosage of Cymbalta is most likely to cause adverse effects. In such cases, dose reduction minimizes the risks of further eye complications and other adverse effects.

If dosage adjustment is not useful, healthcare professionals may prescribe alternatives to Cymbalta that are equally effective but with a lower risk of causing eye problems.

Additionally, healthcare providers may recommend over-the-counter eye drops and artificial tears to manage and prevent the dryness of eyes and other related eye problems. 

What are the alternatives to Cymbalta if it causes eye problems? 

Healthcare professionals can prescribe an alternative to Cymbalta if it causes serious eye problems in individuals and the risks of therapy outweigh its benefits. Antidepressant medications that are less likely to cause serious eye complications as compared to Cymbalta may include: 

• tranylcypromine 
• amitriptyline 
• nortriptyline 
• phenelzine 
• vilazodone
• desvenlafaxine 

It is important to note that these medications can also cause eye problems in susceptible patients. However, the risk of these eye complications is lower than Cymbalta.

In my opinion, antidepressant drugs such as Cymbalta can cause eye-related side effects, although the risk varies depending on the individual’s genetics and physical condition. Patients often report experiencing blurred vision and dry eyes after starting Cymbalta, but these side effects usually go away once the treatment is completed.

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