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Levofloxacin-induced acute psychosis
Nagaraja Moorthy1, N Raghavendra, P N Venkatarathnamma
1Department of General Medicine, Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College and RLJ Hospital and Research Centre, Tamaka, Kolar, Karnataka, India.
Indian Journal of Psychiatry
|September 23, 2009
Summary
Fluoroquinolones, like levofloxacin, can cause central nervous system (CNS) side effects. This case highlights a rare instance of acute psychosis developing after levofloxacin administration in a diabetic patient.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Drug-induced mental status changes are common.
- Fluoroquinolones are an underrecognized cause of CNS side effects.
- Levofloxacin is known to cause various neurological symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of acute psychosis.
- To highlight levofloxacin as a potential cause of psychosis.
- To increase awareness of CNS side effects of fluoroquinolones.
Main Methods:
- Case report.
- Review of patient's medical history.
- Analysis of drug administration and adverse events.
Main Results:
- A middle-aged diabetic male developed acute psychosis.
- The psychosis occurred after administration of levofloxacin for multiple infections.
- This represents a rare adverse reaction to levofloxacin.
Conclusions:
- Levofloxacin can induce acute psychosis, even in patients without prior psychiatric history.
- Clinicians should be vigilant for CNS side effects of fluoroquinolones.
- Early recognition and discontinuation of the drug are crucial for management.
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