A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) - induced case of catathrenia.

Catathrenia is currently classified as a sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by a deep inspiration followed by a prolonged, groaning expiration. While antidepressant- and antipsychotic-induced akathisia and restless legs syndrome (RLS) are well-documented, the potential for these medications to trigger catathrenia remains unrecognized. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are known to exacerbate or induce various sleep disturbances, including periodic leg movement disorder (PLMD), RLS, bruxism, and REM sleep without atonia. However, an association between SSRIs and catathrenia has not yet been reported. Here, we present the first documented case of catathrenia induced by SSRI therapy in a patient with coexisting obstructive sleep apnea.