Tag: Drug induced psychosis

According to some research, as many as 51% of individuals experiencing a first psychotic episode also have a co-occurring substance use disorder, highlighting a significant link. Answering **what drug most commonly causes psychosis?** is complicated, as the likelihood and presentation of drug-induced psychosis depend heavily on the type of substance, dosage, frequency of use, and individual susceptibility.

While rare, some mood stabilizers and antiepileptic drugs used in mood regulation list hallucinations as a potential adverse effect [1.6.1, 1.10.1]. The prevalence of antipsychotic drug-induced psychotic disorder is reported to be between 1.0% and 8.4% in clinical trials [1.4.4]. So, **can mood stabilizers cause hallucinations**? Yes, though uncommon.

In a review of case reports, patients with bipolar disorder developed de novo obsessive-compulsive symptoms months after starting lamotrigine, demonstrating that can Lamictal cause compulsive behavior in some cases. This paradoxical reaction is a rare but documented side effect that requires careful monitoring and patient education.

Studies show that approximately 1 in 7 cases of psychosis in people with epilepsy may be triggered by their medication [1.2.1]. This raises the critical question for patients and clinicians: which antiepileptic causes psychosis and what are the associated risk factors?

Studies have found that severe psychiatric reactions occur in nearly 6% of patients treated with systemic corticosteroids, and mild to moderate reactions in about 28% [1.4.3]. This highlights a crucial question for patient safety: which drug effect can cause mental health concerns?

It is estimated that up to 25% of individuals presenting with a first episode of psychosis may have the condition triggered by a substance or medication. Understanding which drugs can trigger psychosis is crucial for both individuals and healthcare providers to recognize the potential for these severe adverse reactions.

In 2023, metoclopramide was prescribed over a million times in the United States, making it a widely used drug for gastrointestinal issues [1.7.1]. Despite its common use, a critical question remains for patients and clinicians: **can metoclopramide cause psychosis** and other severe neuropsychiatric effects?

According to one study, up to 25% of all hospital admittances for psychosis are a result of drug use, highlighting a significant connection between substance use and mental health. The issue of which drugs trigger psychosis is complex, as various recreational and prescription substances can induce or worsen these episodes, with effects varying based on the individual and the specific substance.

While cetirizine (Zyrtec) is widely regarded as a safe and well-tolerated over-the-counter allergy medication, a small number of case reports and database analyses have documented rare but serious central nervous system side effects, including psychosis. The possibility that Zyrtec can cause psychosis warrants attention from both patients and healthcare providers, especially in individuals with risk factors.

Studies indicate that between 24% and 32% of individuals who experience drug-induced psychosis may later develop a schizophrenia spectrum disorder [1.3.2]. This article explores **which drugs trigger schizophrenia**-like symptoms and the difference between temporary psychosis and a chronic diagnosis.