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Pyrethroid as a substance of abuse
Pravesh Sharma1, Stephen Manning1, Regina Baronia1
1Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, Stop 8103, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
Case Reports in Psychiatry
|November 29, 2014
Summary
A young man used processed pyrethroid insecticide as a methamphetamine substitute, leading to suicidal ideation. This case highlights the need to consider uncommon drug abuse and suicide risks in patients.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Psychiatry
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Substance abuse is a significant public health concern.
- Identifying novel and uncommon substances of abuse is crucial for effective treatment.
- Mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, increase the risk of substance abuse and suicidal behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of pyrethroid insecticide abuse as a methamphetamine substitute.
- To describe the clinical presentation and potential health effects of pyrethroid abuse.
- To emphasize the importance of considering uncommon substances of abuse in patients with suicidal ideations.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 22-year-old male with bipolar disorder and methamphetamine dependence.
- Detailed patient history including substance use, specifically pyrethroid insecticide.
- Clinical examination and urine drug screening.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with suicidal ideations after using processed pyrethroid insecticide for eight weeks.
- He reported a "rush" similar to methamphetamine from inhaling heated or crystallized pyrethroid.
- Urine drug screen was positive for methamphetamine; the patient admitted to recent use.
Conclusions:
- Physicians must maintain a high suspicion for alternate and uncommon substances of abuse.
- Concerns regarding the health effects of pyrethroid abuse may precipitate suicidal tendencies.
- Integrated care addressing both substance abuse and mental health is vital for patient safety.