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Stimulant psychosis: systematic review.
Catherine Curran1, Neetha Byrappa, Andrew McBride
1Pendine Community Mental Health Trust, 124-126 Cowbridge Road West, Ely, Cardiff CF5 5BT, Wales, UK. Cath.Curran@CardiffandVale.wales.nhs.uk
The British Journal of Psychiatry : the Journal of Mental Science
|September 2, 2004
Summary
Stimulant use can worsen psychosis in individuals with schizophrenia, even with antipsychotic medication. Low-dose antipsychotic treatment may help prevent stimulant-induced psychosis sensitization.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Stimulant-induced psychosis is a growing concern with limited research.
- Understanding its nature and effective management strategies is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a critical literature review on stimulant psychosis and sensitization.
- To synthesize current evidence on the relationship between stimulant use and psychosis.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of human studies investigating stimulant use and psychosis.
- Analysis of outcomes including psychosis exacerbation and differences between users and non-users.
Main Results:
- Fifty-four studies were included in the review.
- A single stimulant dose increased psychosis ratings in 50-70% of schizophrenia patients with existing symptoms, irrespective of antipsychotic medication.
- Schizophrenia patients without acute symptoms showed a lower response rate (30%).
- Limited research exists on long-term effects.
Conclusions:
- Antipsychotic medication adherence does not prevent stimulant-induced psychosis relapse or worsening in schizophrenia patients.
- Low-dose antipsychotic therapy might be beneficial for preventing sensitization in stimulant users.