The adverse consequences of mephedrone use: a case series
Kirsty Mackay, Mark Taylor, Neeraj Bajaj
The Psychiatrist May 31, 2011 DOI: 10.1192/pb.bp.110.032433 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Case series Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 20 |
| Population | Individuals self-presenting to emergency departments and acute mental health services in Edinburgh and Falkirk with adverse effects of self-reported mephedrone use |
| Duration | January to June 2010 (case identification period) |
| Citations | 27 |
| Key findings | Among 20 people presenting with adverse effects of self-reported mephedrone use, severe agitation was the most common problem (70%), 40% developed psychotic symptoms, and a further 20% reported low mood and suicidality; one person died by suicide. The authors conclude mephedrone can produce amphetamine-like adverse psychological intoxication effects, particularly in those with a history of mental illness. |
Abstract
Aims and method Mephedrone is a cathinone with amphetamine-like stimulant effects, and is a commonly used recreational drug. The adverse effects of mephedrone use have not been extensively studied. All individuals who self-presented between January and June 2010 to the emergency departments and acute mental health services in Edinburgh and Falkirk with adverse effects of self-reported mephedrone use were identified. Results Twenty cases were identified and analysed. Severe agitation was the most common presenting problem (70%), with 40% of individuals developing psychotic symptoms and a further 20% reporting low mood and suicidality. One person died by suicide. Clinical implications Mephedrone can produce amphetamine-like adverse psychological intoxication effects, particularly in those with a history of mental illness. Clinicians should consider advising patients on the adverse effects of mephedrone, where relevant.