Psychosis induced by abuse of ayahuasca: a case report.
Raul Felipe Palma-álvarez, Lara Grau-lópez, Elena Ros-cucurull, Alfonso Carlos Abad, Julia Dualde, María Robles-martínez, Carlos Roncero
Revista Colombiana de psiquiatria January 1, 2021 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1016/j.rcp.2019.10.005 via PubMed
Summary
A patient experienced a psychotic episode after consuming ayahuasca, a psychotropic infusion. The episode was successfully treated with antipsychotic medication. This case underscores the importance of understanding the risks associated with ayahuasca use, especially as its popularity grows in developed societies, and suggests that psycho-education may be necessary to inform users about potential dangers.
Study at a glance
| Sample size | 1 |
|---|---|
| Population | a patient who experienced a psychotic episode after taking ayahuasca |
| Key finding | The patient had a psychotic episode after taking ayahuasca, which was successfully treated with antipsychotic medication. |
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychotropic infusion prepared by boiling the bark of Amazonian plants and has many psychopharmacological effects not fully understood. Some of those effects are used as treatment for different diseases. However, the side effects of ayahuasca, including ayahuasca-induced psychosis, are an important issue. Here we report the case of a patient who had a psychotic episode after taking ayahuasca and who was successfully treated with antipsychotic medication. Given the current spread of ayahuasca consumption in developed societies, the present case highlights the need for better understanding and regulation of the social-legal condition of ayahuasca and the need for further research. Additionally, psycho-education seems advisable in order to create awareness of the potential risks of the use of ayahuasca.