Bruxism triggered by Escitalopram persists even after discontinuing the drug: a case report

Abstract

ABSTRACT Bruxism is a motor disorder of multifactorial etiology characterized by an exacerbation of muscular activity associated with cleaning or removing teeth, with sound or wakefulness. Bruxism associated with SSRIs, described in the literature, has been documented by a rare adverse reaction and by the pathophysiology associated with the drug’s central system distribution. After the use of Escitalopram for the treatment of depression, a patient presented a functional oral movement disorder caused by repetitive grinding of the teeth unconsciously, characterizing a picture of sleep bruxism, which resulted in hypertrophy of the masticatory muscles and severe headaches. The condition was alleviated by withdrawal of medication and the use of non-pharmacological treatments, however, there was never complete remission. Since depression is a disease that affects 15.5% of the Brazilian population throughout life and that the use of antidepressant drugs is essential for its treatment, it is possible to discuss its common and not so common adverse effects, such as the bruxism.

Keywords

• Bruxism
• Escitalopram
• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
• Sleep bruxism