March 24, 2026 · Journal of addiction medicine · DOI: 10.1097/ADM.0000000000001656

Stimulant-induced Psychosis: A Comparative Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Psychotic Outcomes from Therapeutic and Nontherapeutic Use of Stimulants

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The authors aimed to compare the incidence and prevalence of stimulant-induced psychosis between therapeutic (prescribed) and nontherapeutic (illicit or misused) stimulant use. Their systematic review and meta-analysis of 77 studies revealed a significantly lower incidence of psychosis in therapeutic users (0.6%) compared to a high prevalence in nontherapeutic users (32.8%), highlighting the need for careful monitoring and harm-reduction strategies in nonmedical contexts. The findings suggest that while prescribed stimulants carry a low risk, nontherapeutic use poses a substantial public health concern due to the severity and recurrence of psychotic symptoms.

Deepika Jangra, Ritika Tejwani, Yashita Ahluwalia, Siddharth Sarkar, Yatan Pal Singh Balhara

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