Short-lived delirium caused by single-shot corticosteroids

Abstract

Corticosteroids have many indications in medicine. Side effects are not uncommon, but psychiatric disorders in response to a single dose treatment are very rare. We report of a previously mentally healthy 43-year-old woman who received a single dose of 4 mg intramuscular dexamethasone and subsequently developed a short-lived delirium within hours of administration. Steroid delirium and psychosis are well known in literature, but reports on such an immediate adverse reaction are rare. The underlying biochemical mechanisms are unknown, but prognosis upon discontinuation of steroid intake is generally favorable.