Oculogyric crisis in patients taking cetirizine.

PURPOSE

To report oculogyric crisis in patients receiving cetirizine and inform clinicians on the characteristics of this drug-induced ocular side effect.

METHODS

For this retrospective, observational case series, case reports were collected from the National Registry of Drug-Induced Ocular Side Effects (Casey Eye Institute, Portland, Oregon). The World Health Organization Causality Assessment Guide of Suspected Adverse Reactions was used to categorize the cases.

RESULTS

Nine cases were reported, with eight occurring in the pediatric age group. Dosage ranged from 5 to 10 mg orally and onset of symptoms ranged from 3 to 184 days. Six cases of oculogyric crisis had positive rechallenge data. Eight cases had complete neurologic consultation including radiographic studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Cetirizine can cause oculogyric crisis, especially in the pediatric age group. Extensive neurologic workups may be avoided if clinicians recognize this drug-induced ocular side effect.