Letter to the Editor

Dysphonia Induced by Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

Authors: Nadine Petitpain, PhD, Nicolas Gambier, PhD, Pierre Gillet, PhD, MD, Jean-Claude Muller, MD, Eric de Romemont, MD

Abstract

Dysphonias are speech disorders resulting from voice disturbances, and iatrogenic dysphonias should be considered in the differential diagnosis of any patient presenting with a voice disorder. The most frequently cited medications that may cause dysphonia include corticosteroids, androgens, progesterone, diuretics, and tricyclic antidepressants.1 We report two cases of dysphonia related to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) intake, one involving paroxetine and the other, fluoxetine. Both were prescribed at the recommended daily dose. The main characteristic of these two cases is the complete cessation of vocal symptoms immediately after SSRI withdrawal.

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