Drug psychosis

Drug-induced psychosis is a form of psychosis that is attributed to the use of psychoactive drugs. Psychosis is a mental state characterized by a disconnection from reality, which may involve hallucinations, delusions, and impaired insight. Drug-induced psychosis can occur as an acute event or may manifest with prolonged drug use, and in some cases, it can persist even after the drug has been discontinued.

Causes

Drug-induced psychosis can be caused by a wide range of substances, including both legal and illegal drugs. Common culprits include:

• Amphetamines and methamphetamine
• Cocaine
• LSD and other hallucinogens
• Cannabis (particularly in individuals with a predisposition to psychosis)
• Alcohol (in the context of severe alcoholism or withdrawal)
• Certain prescription medications, such as corticosteroids and some antidepressants

Symptoms

The symptoms of drug-induced psychosis are similar to those of other forms of psychosis and can include:

• Hallucinations: Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there.
• Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs that are not influenced by logical reasoning or explained by a person's usual cultural concepts.
• Paranoia: Irrational suspicion or mistrust of others.
• Disorganized thinking: Difficulty organizing thoughts, making it hard to speak or communicate clearly.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of drug-induced psychosis involves a thorough medical and psychiatric history, along with a physical examination and sometimes toxicology testing to identify the presence of drugs. It is crucial to differentiate drug-induced psychosis from other types of psychosis, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, as the treatment and prognosis may differ.

Treatment

The primary treatment for drug-induced psychosis is cessation of the drug that caused the condition. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure the safety of the patient and to manage withdrawal symptoms. Antipsychotic medications may be used to control symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. Supportive care, including psychotherapy and counseling, can help the individual understand and cope with the experience and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Prognosis

The prognosis for drug-induced psychosis is generally favorable, especially if the condition is recognized and treated early. Most individuals recover fully with appropriate treatment, although some may experience lingering symptoms for weeks or months. The risk of recurrence can be minimized by avoiding the drug that triggered the psychosis and by addressing any underlying substance use disorders.