Antidepressants and Lung Toxicity: A Narrative Review.

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Pharmacology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Antidepressant prescriptions are increasing globally.
• Pulmonary toxicity is an under-recognized side effect of antidepressants.
• Awareness of potential respiratory adverse effects is critical for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review documented cases of lung injury associated with antidepressant use.
• To highlight the diverse range of pulmonary manifestations linked to antidepressants.
• To emphasize the importance of clinical vigilance for respiratory symptoms.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of literature on antidepressant-induced pulmonary toxicity.
• Analysis of case reports and studies documenting lung injury across various antidepressant classes.
• Categorization of pulmonary manifestations and associated antidepressant types.

Main Results:

• Pulmonary toxicity is linked to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), atypical antidepressants, serotonin modulators, tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
• Manifestations include interstitial lung disease, eosinophilic pneumonia, ARDS, and alveolar hemorrhage.
• Lung injury can occur at standard therapeutic doses and in overdose scenarios.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for pulmonary toxicity in patients on antidepressants.
• Prompt recognition and management of respiratory symptoms are essential to mitigate severe outcomes.
• Further research may elucidate specific risk factors and mechanisms of antidepressant-induced lung injury.