Case series: Salvia divinorum as a potential addictive hallucinogen.
The American journal on addictions – April 01, 2018
Source: PubMed
Summary
Commonly perceived as harmless, Salvia divinorum may not be non-addictive. Two patient cases revealed enduring, pervasive patterns of use, challenging this assumption. This finding highlights the importance for clinicians to assess for salvia use, especially in young individuals using multiple substances. Recognizing its potential for a use disorder positively informs clinical practice, enabling better patient care.
Abstract
Recreational use of salvia divinorum (salvia), a potent, naturally occurring hallucinogen, is on the rise internationally. Despite the paucity of information about its long-term health effects, salvia is readily available and generally portrayed as a safe non-addictive substance. We report on two patients who presented with an enduring and pervasive pattern of salvia use. Evaluating patients for salvia use during clinical assessment is strongly encouraged, especially among young polysubstance users. Clinicians should be mindful of the multifaceted psychiatric effects of salvia, including the potential for a use disorder. (Am J Addict 2018;27:163-165).