Antidepressants with Glaucoma

[SL12]

I was wondering, which is the safest anti-depressant available for someone with glaucoma?

[Karjade]

I think it depends what sort of glaucoma you have. I was put on amitriptyline for nerve pain which is also used as an antidepressant and the pharmacist and my Pain Consultant told me that I should not be taking this as I had glaucoma. I spoke to my Eye Consultant and she said it was fine as I had open angle glaucoma. If I had closed angle then I must not take it. I would have a word with your Eye Consultant before you take anything. Hope this helps xx

[mydogs]

I have closed angle glaucoma and have been told I can’t use antidepressants or risk higher pressure.Having suffered with acute anxiety and depression for most of my life I feel absolutely caught in a vicious circle risk my mental health or risk blindness every day is a battle for me and cry all day every day I hope your glaucoma is compatible for antidepressants good luck.

[Trish_GlaucomaUK Partner]

As anti-depressants are a relaxant they can cause the eye to dilate and push forward. If you have Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma or Narrow Angles this can cause the eye pressure to rise as the dilating of the eye will make the already narrow drainage system even narrower. If you have PACG but have had successful Iridotomies and to your knowledge they are still working in helping to control your eye pressure it may be OK to take anti-depressants but it is always recommended that you speak to your glaucoma consultant before taking them. People with Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) or Ocular Hypertension (OHT) do not normally have a problem but again it is always recommended they speak to their glaucoma consultant before starting them.