Piperazine Abuse and Psychosis: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Alessio Mosca, Stefania Chiappini, Andrea Miuli, Gianluca Mancusi, Clara Cavallotto, John Corkery, Livia Miotti, Mauro Pettorruso, Giovanni Martinotti, Fabrizio Schifano
Psychiatry International September 20, 2024 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.3390/psychiatryint5030040 via OpenAlex
Summary
There is a significant relationship between piperazine abuse and the onset of acute psychotic episodes, including symptoms like paranoia and hallucinations. A systematic review identified only 4 relevant studies out of 4547 articles reviewed, indicating a lack of extensive research on long-term outcomes. Recovery from these episodes is common after stopping piperazine use and receiving treatment. More research is needed to develop specific treatment protocols for substance-induced psychosis related to piperazines.
Study at a glance
| Design | systematic review |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 4 |
| Population | articles discussing piperazine abuse and its psychiatric effects |
| Key finding | There is an important relationship between piperazine abuse and the onset of acute psychotic episodes. |
Abstract
Background: Piperazines, synthetic compounds known for their stimulant and hallucinogenic effects, have gained prominence among novel psychoactive substances (NPS) and are frequently associated with adverse psychiatric outcomes, including psychosis. Methods: A systematic review of the literature available up to 23 May 2024 was conducted, using the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, in addition to the related gray literature, utilizing the following search strategy: “piperazines” AND (“psychosis” OR “hallucination” OR “delusion” OR “schizophrenia” OR “delusional” OR “schizoaffective”) NOT review NOT animal. Data collection adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The research methods were registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024549204). Results: Out of a total of 4547 articles identified, 4 met the inclusion criteria. We observed an important relationship between piperazine abuse and the onset of acute psychotic episodes, marked by symptoms such as paranoia, auditory, and visual hallucinations. Conclusion: The complex polyreceptor action mechanism of piperazines may explain these psychopathological effects, similar to those observed with other NPS. Although studies confirm a link between piperazine use and psychosis, data on long-term outcomes are limited. Recovery is common following cessation and treatment. Further research into the effects of piperazine abuse and the development of specific treatment protocols for substance-induced psychosis is necessary.