[Hyponatraemia during the use of selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs): reports from 1992-2002]

To describe the reports of serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI)-induced hyponatraemia that were sent to The Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb and the Inspectorate for Health Care.

Descriptive study.

Reports of SSRI-induced hyponatraemia received by Lareb and the Inspectorate for Health Care during the period 1 January 1992 to 1 July 2002 were described on the basis of symptoms, co-medication and comorbidity. RESULTS; A total of 42 cases were reported, 38 (90%) of which concerned women and 21 (50%) of which concerned the concomitant use of SSRIs and diuretics. The mean age was 74 years (range: 30-91). The mean serum sodium concentration was 115 mmol/l (range: 97-132). The most important symptoms were reduced consciousness, confusion, falls, nausea and vomiting. 3 patients (7%) died in the period of the reported adverse drug reaction and 27 patients (64%) were hospitalised, of which 4 (10%) to the intensive care unit.

These reports of suspected SSRI-induced hyponatraemia were attended with significant morbidity and substantial mortality. The considerable morbidity and substantial mortality in combination with the increasing use of SSRIs necessitates a clarification of the actual incidence and severity of SSRI-induced hyponatraemia.