Abstract

Psychostimulant-Induced Chronic Schizophrenia-Like Disorder

Author(s): Eric M. Pihlgren, Nash N. Boutros

The acute psychotogenic effects of psychostimulants are well documented. However, the chronic psychotogenic effects of psychostimulants are less well understood. In this review we examine the available literature in search of evidence for and against the proposition that chronic use of stimulants could lead to a chronic psychotic disorder clinically resembling schizophrenia. Based on the review, we conclude that the evidence for an amphetamine-induced chronic psychotic disorder is strong. The exact relationships between genetic predisposition, other environmental factors, continued drug use, and the maintenance of the syndrome have not been established. The evidence for a cocaine-induced chronic psychotic disorder is far less compelling as compared to amphetamine abuse.

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