Methamphetamine in psychiatric emergencies.

Abstract

This study examines the clinical characteristics of patients with methamphetamine-induced organic mental disorders that were seen in a psychiatric emergency service. This was a highly dysfunctional group, requiring psychiatric hospitalization in 90% of cases. The most consistent clinical feature was the presence of an organic delusional syndrome, with paranoid ideation and hallucinations. Methamphetamine abusers were also unique in their propensity for violence; 43% of the group had clear histories of aggression towards others. The increasing use of methamphetamine together with its ability to produce severe dysfunction is a major concern of professionals and communities alike in terms of treatment [corrected].

• Authors: R R Szuster
• Journal: Hawaii medical journal (Hawaii Med J) Vol. 49 Issue 10 Pg. 389-91 (Oct 1990) ISSN: 0017-8594 [Print] United States
• PMID: 2272810 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Methamphetamine

Topics

• Adult
• Emergency Service, Hospital (statistics & numerical data)
• Female
• Hawaii (epidemiology)
• Hospitalization (statistics & numerical data)
• Humans
• Male
• Methamphetamine (adverse effects)
• Psychiatric Department, Hospital (statistics & numerical data)
• Substance-Related Disorders (complications, epidemiology, etiology)