Characteristics of freebase cocaine psychosis

Yale J Biol Med. 1988 Mar-Apr;61(2):115-22.

Abstract

Psychosis was present in 29 percent of cocaine-disordered patients hospitalized in 1985 during an epidemic of freebase cocaine abuse in the Bahamas. Record reviews revealed that a variety of psychotic phenomenologic patterns were present. Prior major mental disorders and increased dosage of cocaine were more common among psychotic than non-psychotic patients. Violent behavior was common among cocaine patients, especially those with psychosis. We conclude that freebase cocaine psychosis is neither rare nor benign.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bahamas
  • Cocaine*
  • Dangerous Behavior
  • Delusions / epidemiology
  • Delusions / etiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Psychoses, Substance-Induced / epidemiology*
  • Psychoses, Substance-Induced / etiology
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Substance-Related Disorders / complications*

Substances

  • Cocaine