Electroconvulsive therapy improves persistent psychosis after repeated use of methylenedioxypyrovalerone ("bath salts").

Abstract

The use of synthetic cathinone drugs, known popularly as "bath salts," may lead to persistent visual hallucinations and paranoia with repeated use. This is the first case report known to the authors suggesting that such symptoms may persist despite discontinuing the use of psychoactive bath salts. As is the case with other such symptoms associated with use of stimulant drugs of abuse, these symptoms are resistant to pharmacologic treatment, and electroconvulsive therapy can be a useful treatment modality in such situations. This report adds to evidence for efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy in the management of stimulant-induced persistent psychotic symptoms.

• Authors: Thomas M Penders, Michael C Lang, Joshua J Pagano, Zane S Gooding
• Journal: The journal of ECT (J ECT) Vol. 29 Issue 4 Pg. e59-60 (Dec 2013) ISSN: 1533-4112 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 23609518 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Benzodioxoles
• Designer Drugs
• Pyrrolidines
• Synthetic Cathinone

Topics

• Adult
• Benzodioxoles (adverse effects)
• Designer Drugs (adverse effects)
• Electroconvulsive Therapy
• Female
• Hallucinations (chemically induced, therapy)
• Humans
• Psychoses, Substance-Induced (therapy)
• Pyrrolidines (adverse effects)
• Treatment Outcome
• Synthetic Cathinone