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Amphetamine-Induced Psychosis Leading To Homicide, Suicidal Attempts, And Disorientation: A Case Report
Abrar Akhtar Azad1, Shahzad Ali Khan1, Iram Bibi2
1Health Services Academy Islamabad, Pakistan.
Journal of Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad :, JAMC
|March 23, 2025
Summary
Amphetamine abuse can cause severe psychosis, hallucinations, and aggressive behavior. Integrated treatment is crucial for managing these complex psychiatric and cardiovascular effects in chronic users.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Toxicology
Background:
- Amphetamine abuse is a significant public health issue associated with severe psychiatric and cardiovascular complications.
- Chronic amphetamine use can lead to psychosis, hallucinations, and aggressive behavior, posing risks to individuals and society.
Observation:
- A case report details a 34-year-old male with a five-year history of amphetamine abuse presenting with amphetamine psychosis.
- The patient exhibited hallucinations, violent ideations, suicidal attempts, disorientation, agitation, and a history of homicide while under the influence.
- Diagnostic findings included elevated cardiac biomarkers and abnormal electrolyte levels, consistent with amphetamine presence.
Findings:
- Amphetamine abuse precipitates severe psychiatric manifestations, including psychosis and violent ideations.
- Cardiovascular complications, such as elevated cardiac biomarkers, can occur secondary to amphetamine intoxication.
- Toxicology screenings confirmed the presence of amphetamines in the patient's system.
Implications:
- This case highlights the profound psychiatric and behavioral effects of chronic amphetamine abuse.
- Integrated treatment strategies, encompassing sedation, antipsychotic therapy, cardiovascular support, psychiatric care, and substance abuse rehabilitation, are essential.
- Effective management requires addressing both the acute intoxication and long-term consequences of amphetamine dependence.
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