Relenza-Induced Acute Myopia Change.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Seasonal influenza is a common viral infection treated with antiviral medications.
• Relenza (zanamivir) is an influenza virus neuraminidase inhibitor used for treatment.
• Ocular side effects of antiviral medications are infrequently reported.

Observation:

• A 31-year-old woman developed acute transient myopia and blurred vision after initiating Relenza treatment for seasonal influenza.
• The patient also exhibited signs suggestive of a systemic allergic reaction.
• This represents the first reported instance of Relenza-induced acute transient myopia.

Findings:

• Potential mechanisms for Relenza-induced myopia include ciliary spasm, lens edema, or ciliary body/choroidal effusion.
• The myopic change was transient and resolved spontaneously upon cessation of Relenza.
• The condition followed a benign clinical course.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider drug-induced myopia in patients presenting with acute vision changes during antiviral therapy.
• Referral to ophthalmology is recommended for specialized eye examinations (e.g., A-scan, B-scan, ultrasound biomicroscopy).
• Awareness of potential ocular side effects, such as myopic shifts, associated with Relenza is crucial for healthcare providers and patients.