Diseases & Conditions
Ask the doctor: Is there a connection between antidepressants and cataracts?
Q. I read something about antidepressants causing cataracts. Is there any truth to it?
A. Results from a Canadian study reported in June 2010 did show that older people (ages 65 and up) who were taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants were 15% more likely to develop cataracts than those not taking these medications. The SSRI antidepressants include fluoxetine (Prozac), and several other medications, although when the researchers broke down the data by individual drugs, fluoxetine was not among those associated with cataract risk.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.