Study: Anti-depressants could increase an individual's chance of developing cataracts

March 9, 2010

While antidepressants can be beneficial to one's mental health, new research is suggesting that they may increase a person's risk of developing cataracts later in life.

According to researchers from the University of British Columbia, the Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute and McGill University, there is a direct link between cataracts and certain classes of drugs.

The study was based on more than 20,000 residents of Quebec over the age of 65. Researchers followed patients who had been diagnosed with both cataracts and depression, who were taking drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a type of anti-depressants.

Although the researchers found a specific link between the medications and the eye health condition, they urged users of the drug to continue taking their medication.

"When you look at the trade-offs of these drugs, the benefits of treating depression -- which can be life-threatening -- still outweigh the risk of developing cataracts, which are treatable and relatively benign," says Dr Mahyar Etminan, lead author of the article.


According to the American Optometric Association, individuals who have blurred and hazy vision or have a sensitivity to light should consult with an eye care professional, as these could be symptoms of cataracts.