Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder: Etiology, Clinical Features, and Therapeutic Perspectives

However, HPPD I usually onsets with warning “auras”, minor feelings of self-detachment, mild bewilderment, and mild depersonalization and derealization 17,18. Conversely, the onset of HPPD II might be unexpected and abruptly detonate with bursting “auras”, deep feelings of self-detachment, acute depersonalization-derealization 19. HPPDs are poorly understood due to the enormous range and variability of recurrent sensory disturbances, and the multiple distinct subtypes 17,18. It is important to be open and honest about any past drug use, to help the doctor reach the correct diagnosis.

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• The patient’s medical history was only significant for psychiatric illnesses.
• There is no cure for HPPD, but symptoms can be managed with evidence-based therapies.
• This may suggest a link between specific immediate LSD effects and the chance of developing other pervasive LSD-related diseases.
• A psychiatric illness such as schizophrenia involves persistent or recurrent psychosis that affects individuals’ social and occupational functioning.
• Medications have been identified as effective in helping some people manage pseudo flashbacks caused by HPPD.

The same author reported two cases of cannabis-induced visual disturbances and correlated anxiety features. More recently, Clonazepam (6 mg/day) has been proved to be effective in improving cannabis-induced HPPD symptoms 50. On the other hand, the intrinsic abuse potential of benzodiazepines might be inconvenient in certain individuals with a past history of substance use 17,18. Given the benign nature of HPPD I, the use of benzodiazepines should be proposed only for severe cases, in the acute phase, and for the short term. According to DSM-5, Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder is the recurrence of perceptive disturbances that firstly develop during intoxication. The contents of the perception and visual imagery range extensively 17,19.

Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder Treatment

Pre-existing mental health issues can make the brain more susceptible to the long-term effects of hallucinogens. In some cases, hallucinogen use may worsen these underlying conditions, leading to HPPD. Additionally, individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or other neurological conditions may face an increased risk, as these issues can impair the brain’s ability to process sensory information effectively. Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD) is a rare medical condition that can cause visual disturbances (sometimes called flashbacks) if you’ve taken hallucinogenic drugs in the past. With HPPD, you re-experience the visual aspects of a drug trip, even though you haven’t taken any kind of substance in months or even years.

Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD)

Though it can take time to find the right treatment regimen and begin to feel comfortable again, it is a process that is well worth the effort. The more time that is spent finding out what works and what doesn’t, the easier it will be to create a sustainable life in recovery. Imaging such as chest X-rays (CXR) of cardiopulmonary systems was performed to rule out underlying etiologies related to cardiopulmonary systems, such as infections (pneumonia).

Drugs that Cause HPPD

Since disturbing hallucinations may also be caused by other disorders, such as neurodegenerative disease, brain lesions, seizure disorders, and others, these causes should be ruled out before a person is diagnosed with HPPD. Researchers are looking into whether brain stimulation may work as a way to relieve HPPD symptoms, but studies are still ongoing. When you have one, the vision or experience of a past event springs into your mind suddenly. Often, these are negative events that feel intrusive, unwanted, and unpleasant. With HPPD type 1, you’re more likely to have a “warning aura” before your episode. This is a feeling of self-detachment (numbness to your emotions) or confused state that happens before you start having symptoms.

Benzodiazepines may be useful and effective in eliminating benign HPPD I and ameliorating, but not completely eradicating, pervasive HPPD II symptoms 18,67. The Alcoholics Anonymous effectiveness of Benzodiazepines may be related to their activity on the cortical serotonergic-inhibitory inter-neurons with GABAergic outputs 2,4. Alprazolam (0.25–0.75 mg/day) has been prescribed with some success and Clonazepam (0.5–1.5 mg/day) appears to be the most reliable and effective benzodiazepine even at low doses 17,18,51,67. Clonazepam may act on serotonergic systems, improving, enhancing, and augmenting transmission 17,18,51,67, thus promoting alleviation and a marked improvement 51,67.

Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD) is a complex condition that can profoundly impact daily life. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life. By working closely with a healthcare provider and incorporating lifestyle changes, many individuals experience significant relief from persistent visual hallucinations. Individuals with a history of mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depression, or other psychiatric challenges, may be more vulnerable to HPPD.

For example, https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/signs-and-symptoms-of-alcohol-dependence/ you may need to rest and use calming breathing techniques if these episodes cause you significant anxiety. A 2021 review of HPPD suggests certain medications may help treat HPPD, but those studies are limited. Antiseizure and epilepsy medications like clonazepam (Klonopin) and lamotrigine (Lamictal) are sometimes prescribed.