This study aims to review the literature on the effects of psychostimulants in epileptic subjects, in order to reach a consensus statement on the use or abuse of these substances. The following are analyzed and discussed: cocaine, amphetamines and related agents, caffeine, cannabinoids and psychedelic drugs. Cocaine use is associated with seizures (frequency 1-40% in dependent subjects); amphetamines and related drugs rarely induce seizures at therapeutic doses, but may cause them after the first dosage; caffeine at high doses can induce seizures due to its adenosine receptor antagonist properties; marijuana, due to its serotonin-mediated anticonvulsant action, could have a medical use for the treatment of epilepsy; finally psychedelic compounds, rarely induce seizures.
The study concludes that the use of psychostimulants, with the exception of marijuana, can induce single or multiple seizures in healthy subjects.
Year: 2002
Nationality: Italy
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