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[Delirium and psychotropic substance abuse]
M D'Orazio1, M Mistretta, L Orso
1Dipartimento di Scienze Psichiatriche e Medicina Psicologica, Unità Operativa Complessa di Psichiatria e Psicofarmacologia Clinica, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italia. martina.dorazio@gmail.com
La Clinica Terapeutica
|July 1, 2010
Summary
Delirium is common in psychiatric disorders and substance abuse. This review explores how substances like cocaine and alcohol contribute to delirium
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Toxicology
Context:
- Delirium is a frequent symptom in psychiatric conditions, including psychotic disorders, affective disorders, organic illnesses, and substance abuse.
- A significant bidirectional relationship exists between psychosis and substance abuse, with high risks for both conditions.
- Understanding this interplay is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose:
- To review the complex relationship between substance abuse and delirium development.
- To elucidate the specific influence of various psychotropic substances (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines, alcohol, cannabinoids, opioids) on delirium pathogenesis.
- To explore the neurochemical underpinnings and potential endophenotypes involved in substance-induced delirium.
Summary:
- This review examines how psychotropic substance abuse, including cocaine, amphetamines, alcohol, cannabinoids, and opioids, contributes to the development of delirium.
- It details the neurochemical mechanisms by which these substances induce delirium and discusses potential endophenotypes relevant to mental illness pathogenesis.
- The bidirectional link between psychosis and substance abuse is highlighted, emphasizing the increased risk for both conditions.
Impact:
- Provides a comprehensive overview of substance-induced delirium, aiding clinicians in diagnosis and management.
- Offers insights into the neurobiological mechanisms underlying delirium in the context of substance abuse.
- Contributes to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of mental diseases with comorbid substance use disorders.
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