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Published on: November 21, 2013
Substance misuse and early psychosis.
1Mental Health (East), Sydney West Area Health Service, NSW, Australia. peter_tucker@wsahs.nsw.gov.au
Summary
Substance misuse is common in early psychosis, linked to earlier onset and more positive symptoms. Early intervention programs show positive outcomes for both substance misuse and psychosis course.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Addiction Medicine
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Substance misuse is prevalent in individuals experiencing early psychosis.
- Cannabis and alcohol are frequently misused substances in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on the relationship between substance misuse and early psychosis.
- To understand the impact of substance misuse on psychosis development and course.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a literature search using Medline, focusing on articles published after 1996.
- Supplemented search with relevant articles from reference lists.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of substance misuse (cannabis, alcohol) in early psychosis.
- Association between substance misuse and earlier onset/positive symptoms, but not cognitive impairment.
- Cannabis use may increase schizophrenia risk in vulnerable individuals; amphetamines can cause chronic psychosis.
- Many 'drug-induced psychosis' cases are later diagnosed as schizophrenia.
Conclusions:
- Assessment of substance misuse is crucial in early psychosis patients due to potential psychopathology interactions.
- Intervention programs for substance misuse demonstrate value in improving psychosis outcomes.
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