Mephentermine dependence with psychosis.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Psychiatry
• Toxicology

Background:

• Mephentermine, a stimulant with structural similarity to methamphetamine, has rarely been associated with misuse or dependence in medical literature.
• Understanding the potential for dependence and adverse psychiatric effects is crucial for clinical awareness.

Observation:

• A 23-year-old professional weightlifter developed mephentermine dependence, escalating usage for performance enhancement.
• The patient self-administered mephentermine, initially 60 mg, increasing to 100-150 mg every 2-3 days over a period of years.
• This usage pattern led to the development of psychosis, characterized by persecutory delusions.

Findings:

• The case demonstrates a clear link between mephentermine misuse and the induction of psychotic symptoms.
• Discontinuation of mephentermine use resulted in the remission of psychosis.
• Adjunctive antipsychotic medication further supported the resolution of psychiatric symptoms.

Implications:

• This report underscores the underrecognized potential for mephentermine dependence and associated psychiatric morbidity.
• Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for stimulant misuse, even with less commonly reported substances.
• Further research into the neurobiological mechanisms and prevalence of mephentermine-induced psychosis is warranted.