Which symptom listed is a side effect of tricyclic antidepressants that affects vision?

Which symptom listed is a side effect of tricyclic antidepressants that affects vision?

• A. Photophobia/blurred vision
• B. Urinary retention
• C. Dry mouth
• D. Constipation

Answer: (A)

Tricyclic antidepressants can cause anticholinergic effects, including in the eyes. Blocking muscarinic receptors leads to pupil dilation (mydriasis) and reduced ability to focus the lens for near tasks (cycloplegia). This combination produces blurred vision and makes eyes more sensitive to light, i.e., photophobia. Other listed effects are also anticholinergic but don’t directly involve vision, so they don’t explain a vision change. That’s why photophobia with blurred vision is the symptom tied to this drug’s visual side effects.

Tricyclic antidepressants can cause anticholinergic effects, including in the eyes. Blocking muscarinic receptors leads to pupil dilation (mydriasis) and reduced ability to focus the lens for near tasks (cycloplegia). This combination produces blurred vision and makes eyes more sensitive to light, i.e., photophobia. Other listed effects are also anticholinergic but don’t directly involve vision, so they don’t explain a vision change. That’s why photophobia with blurred vision is the symptom tied to this drug’s visual side effects.