Drugs that mimic or exacerbate psychiatric disorders

Abstract

Many substances can produce effects on the central nervous system, even those primarily used for its peripheral effects. Agents with therapeutic action at the central level are prescribed for the treatment of some psychiatric disorders, while many persons are under automedication with substances that induce central adiction and are very easily acquired. It Is Important to remember that drug effects depend on the dose and the biological s1tuatlon of the patient; therefore, it is possible that a drug at the standard dose can induce central nervous system excitation or depression. The pharmacological effects can appear at the therapeutic window level indicating a hypereactivity situation. Physicians should be aware of this fact In order to be able to dillucidate whether the psychiatric manifestations are exotoxic or endogenous. Clinical cases of drug. lnduced psychiatric disorders are presented In order to illustrate the importance of a thorough pharmacological and clinical history In every patient whit psychiatric disorders.