Which drug class is commonly associated with anticholinergic side effects such as blurred vision?

Which drug class is commonly associated with anticholinergic side effects such as blurred vision?

• A. SSRI
• B. SNRI
• C. Tricyclic antidepressants
• D. MAOI

Answer: (C)

Anticholinergic side effects come from blocking muscarinic receptors, which reduces acetylcholine signaling in parasympathetic pathways. Some antidepressants have strong antimuscarinic properties due to their chemical structure, especially the older tricyclic antidepressants. This receptor blockade can cause blurred vision because it impairs the eye’s ability to accommodate for near vision, along with other signs like dry mouth and constipation. Because SSRIs and SNRIs generally have minimal anticholinergic effects and MAO inhibitors aren’t known for this class of side effects, blurred vision is most characteristic of tricyclic antidepressants.

Anticholinergic side effects come from blocking muscarinic receptors, which reduces acetylcholine signaling in parasympathetic pathways. Some antidepressants have strong antimuscarinic properties due to their chemical structure, especially the older tricyclic antidepressants. This receptor blockade can cause blurred vision because it impairs the eye’s ability to accommodate for near vision, along with other signs like dry mouth and constipation. Because SSRIs and SNRIs generally have minimal anticholinergic effects and MAO inhibitors aren’t known for this class of side effects, blurred vision is most characteristic of tricyclic antidepressants.