Catatonia LSD Induced?
K. M. H. Perera, A. Ferraro, M. R. M. Pinto
Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry June 1, 1995 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1080/00048679509075930 via OpenAlex
Summary
A compelling case highlights a patient who developed catatonia just one week after ingesting Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD), with psychosis emerging two days post-ingestion. Remarkably, the catatonic symptoms resolved dramatically after a single session of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). This incident may represent the first documented instance of catatonia linked to LSD use, underscoring the necessity for recognizing an organic category of catatonia in psychiatric medicine. Such insights could influence treatment approaches for conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Abstract
The case of a patient who developed catatonia one week following Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) ingestion is presented. The psychosis developed two days after the intake. The catatonic syndrome resolved dramatically following one treatment of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). This is perhaps the first case report of catatonia following the use of LSD. The need for a diagnostic category of organic catatonia is highlighted.