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Delusional parasitosis associated with phenelzine
D Aizenberg1, B Schwartz, Z Zemishlany
1Geha Psychiatric Hospital, Petah Tikva, Israel.
The British Journal of Psychiatry : the Journal of Mental Science
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Phenelzine, an antidepressant, can trigger delusional parasitosis, a condition causing the false belief of being infested with parasites. This psychiatric side effect resolved after discontinuing the medication and using a low dose of haloperidol.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant.
- Delusional parasitosis is a form of somatic delusion.
- MAOIs can have various psychiatric side effects.
Observation:
- A patient taking phenelzine developed delusional parasitosis.
- The delusion was associated with an agitated hypomanic state.
- Intense pruritus preceded the onset of the delusion.
Findings:
- The patient's delusional parasitosis completely remitted upon phenelzine withdrawal.
- A low dose of haloperidol (1 mg/day) administered for several days aided in the remission.
- This case highlights an unusual psychopathology linked to phenelzine treatment.
Implications:
- Dermatologists may encounter phenelzine-induced delusional parasitosis more frequently than psychiatrists.
- This case underscores the importance of considering medication side effects in psychiatric presentations.
- Careful monitoring and prompt management are crucial for patients experiencing adverse drug reactions.