Amiodarone‐Induced Nystagmus and Ataxia: Case Report and Systematic Review of Case Reports

Abstract

Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic drug with a significant adverse effect profile, including neurotoxicity. While ataxia, neuropathy, and tremors are more commonly seen forms of amiodarone neurotoxicity, very few cases of nystagmus are reported. We report the case of an 86‐year‐old man who presented with abrupt onset ataxia, dizziness, and inability to ambulate, ten days after initiating amiodarone for atrial fibrillation. His examination revealed gaze‐evoked nystagmus along with features of cerebellar dysfunction. After excluding other etiologies, amiodarone was stopped. His nystagmus resolved, and his ataxia improved within 48 hours of stopping amiodarone. Due to the rarity of this drug‐induced adverse effect, we performed a systematic review of available case reports in the literature (PubMed and Scopus) using PRISMA guidelines and presented our findings. Nystagmus is a rarely reported adverse effect of amiodarone, which can occur within days to months of starting the medication. Treatment includes stopping the drug and monitoring for resolution of nystagmus.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved