Antidepressants and dizziness
Renato Teodoro Ramos*
University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil
* To whom correspondence should be addressed.
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Abstract |
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Despite several evidences supporting a close relationship between dizziness and
anxiety symptoms, the role of antidepressants in the treatment of such conditions
remains poorly explored. The high prevalence of dizziness during serotonin reuptake
inhibitors discontinuation syndrome and the few reports suggesting efficacy of
antidepressants in treating some vestibular disorders justify a careful investigation.
Neurophysiologic studies suggest possible focus of investigation on mechanisms of drug
action. Psychophysiologic studies also suggest a possible role of antidepressant drugs
in improving balance control and cognitive functioning. Controlled studies involving
antidepressants with selective action in different neurotransmitters systems are
necessary to elucidate the complex pathophysiologic mechanisms involving emotional and
balance control. For future researches, special attention must be paid to the
methodology of balance evaluation and the interaction between posture control and
cognitive functioning.
Key Words:
dizziness, antidepressants, balance control, vestibular testing, anxiety
