Amphetamine-induced Psychotic Disorder (AIPD) is a mental disorder identified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5). It is characterized by the presence of psychotic features that are the direct result of stimulant use. The most common stimulant associated with AIPD is amphetamine, and the disorder is usually associated with chronic or binge use of the drug.
Signs and Symptoms of Amphetamine-Induced Psychotic Disorder
The most common symptoms of AIPD include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, paranoia, and disturbed behavior. Delusions are false beliefs that are held despite evidence to the contrary. Hallucinations are false sensory perceptions such as hearing voices or seeing things that are not there. Disorganized thinking is characterized by confusion and difficulty with focusing on tasks or conversations. Paranoia is a feeling of being watched or persecuted. Disturbed behavior is characterized by unusual, disruptive, or dangerous behavior.
Diagnosis of Amphetamine-Induced Psychotic Disorder
In order to diagnose AIPD, a clinician must identify that the psychotic features are the direct result of stimulant use. This means that other potential causes of psychosis must be ruled out. The DSM-5 requires that the individual have a history of regular or binge amphetamine use prior to the onset of psychotic features, and that the symptoms must resolve within one month of stopping use. Additionally, the individual must have experienced at least one of the following: delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, paranoia, or disturbed behavior.
Treatment of Amphetamine-Induced Psychotic Disorder
The primary treatment for AIPD is to discontinue use of the stimulant and to provide supportive care. This can include medications to control psychotic symptoms or to treat co-occurring substance use disorder. Additionally, psychotherapy can be used to address any underlying psychological issues that may have contributed to the development of AIPD.