National and international pharmacovigilance committee reports and
case-control studies also implicate paroxetine, fluoxetine, sertraline. However,
there have been only few reported cases of hyponatremia associated with
escitalopram. The objective of this case report is to highlight a strong association
of hyponatremia and SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate ADH secretion) in a
middle-aged patient receiving escitalopram, a drug less commonly known to
cause such side effects. Methods: We report a case of escitalopram induced severe
hyponatremia in a middle-aged man where the association of hyponatremia with
escitalopram is clearly established. Patient developed hyponatremia on the rechallenge
with escitalopram (serum sodium = 94 mEq/L) within two days of
initiation of treatment. The patient was free from other medical illnesses and was
not taking other medications known to cause hyponatremia (confounders present
in previous case reports suggesting an association between escitalopram and
SIADH). Results: Our case suggests a strong association of escitalopram use and
development of hyponatremia and SIADH in the absence of another drug use
and medical comorbidity. Conclusion: Escitalopram, an SSRI is associated with
hyponatremia and SIADH even in middle-aged individuals. There is a need for
case-control studies especially involving a younger and middle age group.
ASEAN Journal of Psychiatry, Vol. 17 (2): July – December 2016: XX XX.