Dilemma of Treating Psychosis Secondary to Stroke

Post-stroke psychosis is prevalent and disabling with increased mortality risk. Treatment for post-stroke psychosis is limited in this staggering medical concern. The most commonly used medications are antipsychotics, however, the risk for stroke increases further with the use of antipsychotics. Furthermore, interventional clinical studies have not been carried out to test the efficacy and safety of antipsychotics in the management of post-stroke psychosis. We present a case of post-stroke psychosis to highlight the risks faced by these patients in terms of daily function and safety concerns and the challenges encountered in treatment due to poor response to the conventional antipsychotics; and so calling attention to early diagnosis and improved treatment options. More clinical investigations are needed to address the pathology associated with the clinical presentation and exploring the pharmacotherapies to improve efficacy and safety of treatment for post-stroke psychosis.