Dependence and psychosis with 4-methylmethcathinone (mephedrone) use

BMJ Case Rep. 2010 Nov 3:2010:bcr0220102780. doi: 10.1136/bcr.02.2010.2780.

Abstract

'Legal highs' are recreational drugs sold over the internet and the so-called 'head shops' all over the UK. They are freely available to buy and use as they are not covered by the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone) was sold as a 'legal high' until 17 April 2010 when it was made a class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Numerous deaths and self-harm has been associated with mephedrone use. Effects of mephedrone are reported to be empathogenic similar to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) and stimulant properties similar to cocaine. Not much is known of the effects of mephedrone on mental health. We present a case of dependence and psychosis in a patient using mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone). The patient needed inpatient hospital care, was treated with antipsychotic olanzapine and recovered well.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amphetamine-Related Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Illicit Drugs / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Methamphetamine / adverse effects
  • Methamphetamine / analogs & derivatives*
  • Psychoses, Substance-Induced / diagnosis*

Substances

  • Illicit Drugs
  • Methamphetamine
  • mephedrone