Drug-induced psychosis following use of Ayahuasca: a presentation to forensic psychiatric services.
Morven Rosemary Baker, Christopher Iain O'Shea
BMJ Case Reports August 14, 2024 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2024-260648 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1 |
| Population | Previously well male with no risk factors for adverse psychiatric outcomes or forensic history |
| Interventions | Ayahuasca aripiprazole |
| Duration | 18-month follow-up |
| Topics | Ayahuasca |
| Keywords | Drug-induced psychosis Psychedelic drugs Violent behavior Psychiatric treatment |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key findings | Ayahuasca use can trigger a prolonged psychotic episode with risk of psychotically mediated violence even in individuals without prior psychiatric risk factors. |
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a plant-based psychoactive decoction, traditionally used by indigenous Amazonian peoples, which commonly contains the hallucinogen N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). There is now growing interest across the Western world in psychedelics including Ayahuasca.This case describes a previously well male with no risk factors for adverse psychiatric outcomes or forensic history. Following controlled Ayahuasca use, he developed an enduring psychotic episode, during which he significantly assaulted a relative and was admitted to a forensic psychiatric unit. He was treated with the antipsychotic aripiprazole, and his psychotic symptoms abated. 18 months following his admission, recovery has been sustained.Previous case reports have described psychosis following Ayahuasca ingestion, but typically of short duration in patients with a personal or family history of psychiatric illness, or in those taking other substances. With the growing use of Ayahuasca, it is important to highlight that adverse effects may include more prolonged psychotic symptoms and the risk of psychotically mediated violence.