Drug-Induced Psychosis: A Review of Risk Factors and Treatment Options
Abstract
Drug-induced psychosis (DIP) is a severe mental health disorder which can occur with the use of certain psychoactive substances. It is characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and other symptoms of psychosis, and can have devastating impacts on individuals and their families. This review paper explores the risk factors associated with DIP, including genetic and environmental factors, and the various treatment options available. It is concluded that further research is needed to identify potential risk factors and to develop more effective treatment strategies for this disorder.
Introduction
The use of psychoactive substances such as alcohol, cannabis, and amphetamines is a common occurrence in our society today, and unfortunately, it can sometimes lead to serious mental health disorders such as drug-induced psychosis (DIP) (Yoon et al., 2017). DIP is a psychiatric condition that is characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and other psychotic symptoms (Kumar, 2017). These symptoms typically occur after the use of certain drugs, but can also be triggered by drug withdrawal or by a combination of drugs (Yoon et al., 2017). DIP can have a significant negative impact on an individual’s quality of life and can even lead to hospitalization in some cases (Kumar, 2017). It is therefore important to understand the risk factors associated with this disorder, as well as the available treatment options.
Risk Factors
Several risk factors have been identified which can increase an individual’s likelihood of developing DIP. These include genetic, environmental, and drug-related factors.
Genetic factors: A number of genetic factors have been linked to DIP, including polymorphisms in the dopamine D2 receptor gene (DRD2) and the monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) gene (Yoon et al., 2017). It has also been suggested that certain genetic variants may be associated with an increased risk of developing psychosis after the use of certain drugs (Kumar, 2017).
Environmental factors: Various environmental factors have also been found to be associated with an increased risk of DIP. These include childhood trauma, lower socioeconomic status, and living in an urban environment (Yoon et al., 2017).
Drug-related factors: The use of certain drugs can also increase an individual’s risk of developing DIP. These include amphetamines, cannabis, and alcohol (Kumar, 2017).
Treatment Options
There are several treatment options available for individuals with DIP, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
Pharmacological interventions: Pharmacological interventions for DIP typically involve the use of antipsychotic medications, which are used to reduce the severity of psychotic symptoms. Antidepressants may also be prescribed to treat associated depression (Kumar, 2017).
Non-pharmacological interventions: Non-pharmacological interventions for DIP include psychosocial interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family therapy (Kumar, 2017). These interventions can be used to reduce the severity of psychotic symptoms, as well as to provide support for individuals and their families.
Conclusion
In conclusion, DIP is a serious mental health disorder which can have a significant negative impact on individuals and their families. This review paper has explored the various risk factors associated with DIP, as well as the available treatment options. It is clear that further research is needed to identify potential risk factors and to develop more effective treatment strategies for this disorder.
References
Kumar, S. (2017). Drug-induced psychosis: Clinical features, risk factors and management. Asian Journal of Psychiatry, 27, 139-144. doi:10.1016/j.ajp.2017.02.009
Yoon, S., Lim, H., Kim, M., Kim, S., & Yim, H. (2017). Risk factors for drug-induced psychosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Schizophrenia Research, 181, 55-61. doi:10.1016/j.schres.2016.12.011