Anticholinergic Plant Misuse and Schizophrenia: Regarding a Case Report

Abstract

Anticholinergic medication abuse is common in patients with schizophrenia. The recreational use of anticholinergic plants for their euphoria inducing and hallucinogenic properties is a rising concern in America and Eastern Europe, but rare in Portugal. Anticholinergic misuse poses a challenge to Psychiatrists treating patients with dual pathology, for its addictive potential. In managing antipsychotic medication and its side effects in this population one must have in mind the potential for abuse of anticholinergics. We present a case report of a patient with schizophrenia and abuse of anticholinergic plants, after receiving biperiden to treat extrapyramidal symptoms. Later we discuss anticholinergic effects and potential for addiction and explore ways to prevent and treat drug misuse in this context.