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Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
The potential for antimicrobials to adversely affect mental state
1Department of Psychiatry, Galway University Hospital, Galway, Ireland. lelally@yahoo.ie
BMJ Case Reports
|July 9, 2013
Summary
This case report shows how the antibiotic clarithromycin can affect mental health. A woman developed mania, potentially triggered by this antibiotic alongside other factors.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Antimicrobial agents can have central nervous system side effects.
- Macrolide antibiotics, such as clarithromycin, are increasingly prescribed.
- Understanding drug-induced mental state changes is crucial for patient care.
Observation:
- A middle-aged woman experienced a behavioral change and irritable mood.
- She was involuntarily admitted for an acute manic episode.
- Psychosocial stressors and medication changes were noted prior to admission.
Findings:
- The patient's manic episode was potentially precipitated by clarithromycin use.
- This occurred in conjunction with psychosocial stressors and discontinuation of psychotropic medication.
- The case highlights a possible link between clarithromycin and mania.
Implications:
- Clarithromycin may contribute to manic episodes in susceptible individuals.
- Clinicians should consider recent antibiotic use when evaluating new-onset mania.
- Further research is warranted to explore the neurobiological mechanisms of antibiotic-induced psychiatric effects.
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