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 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcp.2019.10.005 via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractAyahuasca, a psychotropic infusion made from Amazonian plants, can induce psychotic episodes as a side effect. A patient who experienced such an episode after consuming ayahuasca was successfully treated with antipsychotic medication. The case underscores the need for better understanding and regulation of ayahuasca's social-legal status, further research, and psycho-education to raise awareness of its potential risks.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Case study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1 |
| Population | A patient who had a psychotic episode after taking ayahuasca |
| Intervention | antipsychotic medication |
| Topics | Addiction Ayahuasca Depression DMT |
| Keywords | Adicción Depresión |
| Citations | 12 |
| Key finding | Ayahuasca can induce psychosis that is treatable 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.