Drug-induced psychosis following use of Ayahuasca: a presentation to forensic psychiatric services.
BMJ case reports – August 14, 2024
Source: PubMed
Summary
A healthy man with no prior mental health issues developed severe psychotic symptoms after using Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian psychedelic brew. Unlike typical cases, where drug-induced psychosis resolves quickly, his symptoms persisted and led to violence against a family member. After treatment with antipsychotic medication in a psychiatric facility, he achieved full recovery over 18 months.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a plant-based psychoactive decoction, traditionally used by indigenous Amazonian peoples, which commonly contains the hallucinogen N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). There is now growing interest across the Western world in psychedelics including Ayahuasca.This case describes a previously well male with no risk factors for adverse psychiatric outcomes or forensic history. Following controlled Ayahuasca use, he developed an enduring psychotic episode, during which he significantly assaulted a relative and was admitted to a forensic psychiatric unit. He was treated with the antipsychotic aripiprazole, and his psychotic symptoms abated. 18 months following his admission, recovery has been sustained.Previous case reports have described psychosis following Ayahuasca ingestion, but typically of short duration in patients with a personal or family history of psychiatric illness, or in those taking other substances. With the growing use of Ayahuasca, it is important to highlight that adverse effects may include more prolonged psychotic symptoms and the risk of psychotically mediated violence.