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Central serous chorioretinopathy associated with sildenafil
Frederick W Fraunfelder1, Frederick T Fraunfelder
1Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239-4197, USA. eyedrug@ohsu.edu
Retina (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|April 10, 2008
Summary
This study suggests a potential link between sildenafil use and central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Discontinuing sildenafil therapy may improve vision in some patients with CSC.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is a condition affecting vision.
- Sildenafil is a medication used for erectile dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a potential association between sildenafil therapy and central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of over 1,500 sildenafil-associated ocular side effect reports from FDA, WHO, and National Registry databases.
- Medline search for terms related to CSC and sildenafil.
- Identification of 11 cases of CSC in men using sildenafil.
Main Results:
- In 8 of 11 cases, CSC occurred during sildenafil use.
- Vision improved in 6 of these 8 patients after discontinuing sildenafil.
- CSC recurrence was observed in 3 patients upon resuming sildenafil; however, cessation did not always lead to improvement.
Conclusions:
- Consider recommending sildenafil cessation for patients with refractory CSC.
- A definitive causal relationship is not established due to the cyclic nature of CSC.
- Encouraging reporting of potential cases to regulatory bodies and manufacturers is advised.
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