Case report: Psychedelic-induced seizures captured by intracranial electrocorticography
Frontiers in Neurology – June 29, 2023
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
The first electrographically confirmed case of seizures linked to classic psychedelic drug use has surfaced, a vital finding for Neuroscience and Psychology. While this drug class shows promise in Medicine, adverse effects are critical. A person with refractory right Temporal lobe Epilepsy experienced a large increase in seizure frequency after ingesting psychedelic mushrooms. These drugs, containing alkaloids from chemical synthesis, profoundly influence Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior. Electroencephalography confirmed this drug-induced adverse effect, highlighting significant seizure risk in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, a safety concern as paramount as Anesthesia protocols for individuals with Epilepsy.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics are currently re-emerging as therapeutic agents with unique clinical benefits; however, it is also important to recognize the adverse effects of this drug class. While the risk of seizures with this drug class is known, the literature is lacking in detail. We present a case of psychedelic mushroom-induced seizures in a person with refractory right temporal lobe epilepsy implanted with a responsive neurostimulation (RNS) system. A large increase in typical seizure frequency coincided with the ingestion of a large dose of the mushrooms. This is the first reported case of electrographically confirmed seizures associated with classic psychedelic drug use. With the surge of research and movements toward the clinical application of classic psychedelic compounds, the risk for drug-induced seizures should be considered, including factors such as a history of epilepsy and drug doses and regimens.