Psychosis apparently produced by reserpine.

Abstract

The use of reserpine has become widespread, both for its tranquilizing effect in hypertension 1 and its curiously unexplained action in schizophrenic reactions and other psychotic and psychoneurotic states. 2 The fact that a yohimbine-like drug will act upon specific functions of the brain, probably on the hypothalamus or its connections, has opened the way to investigations on the chemical disorders of cerebral metabolism leading to functional disturbances. Reserpine and its chemical analogues are said to be safe and free from serious side-effects. Because psychoses developed in five individuals taking this drug, with slow recovery after withdrawal, and because nervousness, insomnia, and agitation have appeared in others, we considered it advisable to call attention to such reactions. REPORT OF CASES Case 1.— A 60-year-old bookkeeper had exhibited asymptomatic hypertension for at least two years. There had been no episodes of overt psychosis or neurosis during his lifetime. His blood pressure