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Optic neuropathy following amiodarone therapy.
A G Sreih1, M H Schoenfeld, M A Marieb
1Arrhythmia Center, The Hospital of Saint Raphael, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, USA.
Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE
|August 24, 1999
Summary
Amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic drug, can cause optic neuropathy, a rare but serious eye condition. Regular ophthalmologic exams are recommended for patients on amiodarone therapy to detect vision changes early.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Amiodarone is a widely used antiarrhythmic medication.
- Ocular side effects of amiodarone are common but typically benign.
- Optic neuropathy is a potential, though infrequent, complication.
Observation:
- Three patients over 65 years old developed optic neuropathy while on amiodarone.
- Symptoms appeared 5-19 months after initiating amiodarone (100-400 mg/day).
- Ocular involvement was bilateral in two patients and unilateral in one.
Findings:
- Amiodarone-induced optic neuropathy can occur in elderly patients.
- The exact cause may be multifactorial, involving amiodarone, patient health, or both.
- This adverse drug reaction highlights the need for vigilant monitoring.
Implications:
- Recommend regular, comprehensive ophthalmologic examinations for patients on amiodarone.
- Early detection of optic neuropathy is crucial for potential intervention.
- Further research, including randomized studies, is needed to establish the true incidence of amiodarone-related ocular complications.