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LSD-induced Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder treated with clonazepam: two case reports.
A G Lerner1, I Skladman, A Kodesh
1Lev Hasharon Mental Health Medical Center, Pardessya, Israel. lerneram@internet-zahav.net
The Israel Journal of Psychiatry and Related Sciences
|July 31, 2001
Summary
Clonazepam, a high-potency benzodiazepine, effectively treated Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) in two patients unresponsive to other treatments. This suggests high-potency benzodiazepines may be superior for LSD-induced HPPD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) is a condition characterized by persistent visual disturbances after hallucinogen use.
- Benzodiazepines are a common treatment recommendation for HPPD, but their comparative efficacy is not well-established.
Observation:
- Two outpatients diagnosed with LSD-induced HPPD were treated with clonazepam.
- These patients had previously shown no improvement with low-potency benzodiazepines or low doses of antipsychotic medications.
Findings:
- Successful treatment of HPPD symptoms was observed in both patients following clonazepam administration.
- After discontinuing clonazepam, patients reported significant symptom reduction, with only mild residual effects noted during a six-month follow-up.
Implications:
- High-potency benzodiazepines, such as clonazepam, which possess serotonergic properties, may offer a more effective therapeutic option for LSD-induced HPPD compared to low-potency benzodiazepines.
- Further research into the specific mechanisms and broader applicability of high-potency benzodiazepines in HPPD treatment is warranted.