From the Guidelines
Blurred vision is a potential side effect of taking Celebrex (celecoxib), although it is not explicitly listed in the provided study 1. However, considering the mechanism of action of Celebrex as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and its effects on prostaglandin production, it is plausible that it could affect blood flow to the optic nerve and retina, leading to visual disturbances. Some key points to consider when evaluating the risk of blurred vision with Celebrex include:
- The study 1 focuses on more common adverse effects such as dyspepsia, GI bleeding, cardiovascular complications, hepatic complications, impaired renal function, clotting problems, and respiratory issues, but does not directly address visual side effects.
- Given the potential for NSAIDs to cause a range of side effects, it is essential for patients experiencing blurred vision or any other visual disturbances while taking Celebrex to contact their healthcare provider promptly.
- Regular eye exams are crucial for patients on long-term Celebrex therapy, especially older adults, those taking higher doses, or individuals with pre-existing eye conditions.
- Other serious side effects that might accompany vision changes, such as severe headache, dizziness, or signs of allergic reaction, require immediate medical evaluation. In clinical practice, it is recommended to monitor patients taking Celebrex for any visual disturbances and to adjust treatment as necessary to prioritize their morbidity, mortality, and quality of life 1.
From the Research
Celebrex and Blurred Vision
- Blurred vision can be a side effect of taking Celebrex (celecoxib) 2, 3.
- A review of 35 cases of acute, reversible disturbances of vision associated with the use of celecoxib or rofecoxib found that the reactions included temporary blindness, visual field defect, scotoma, teichopsia, blurred vision, decreased vision, and abnormal vision 2.
- The reactions had a mean onset time of 9.5 days and recovery occurred within 3 days following withdrawal of the drug 2.
- Possible mechanisms for this type of reaction include interference with the retinal blood supply through reduced production of prostanoids 2.
- A case report of a 79-year-old woman who developed an atypical visual disturbance associated with celecoxib, which resolved on discontinuation of the drug, has also been documented 3.
Comparison with Other Medications
- Other medications, such as ibuprofen, have also been associated with visual disturbances, including blurred vision and visual field defects 4.
- A case report of a 41-year-old man who developed optic neuritis with visual field defect associated with ibuprofen use found that the patient's vision improved after discontinuation of the drug and treatment with methylprednisolone and heparin 4.
- A review of drug-induced ocular disorders found that many different kinds of medications can cause similar ocular adverse reactions, and that clinicians should be mindful of these potential reactions 5.
Key Findings
- The incidence of reported cases of visual disturbances associated with celecoxib is estimated to be not less than 5 per 10,000 patients 2.
- Genetic polymorphisms that affect drug metabolism or uptake could be risk factors for these reactions 2.
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for drug-induced ocular disorders, including blurred vision, and perform a thorough medication history in every patient with visual disturbances without a clear cause 5, 4.