Journal of Clinical Toxicology
Open Access

Abstract

Cannabis and Methylphenidate-Induced Manic Symptoms

Eduardo Cinosi, Mariangela Corbo, Ilaria Matarazzo, Rita Santacroce, Giovanni Martinotti and Massimo di Giannantonio

Methylphenidate (MPH) prescription rates have been increasing steadily in the last few years, and diversion of the drug is becoming an issue, especially among young people. As is commonly known from scientific literature, high doses of stimulants may induce symptoms similar to those typical of mood disorders or schizophrenia, but with a wide range of variability in symptoms severity, duration and presentation. Poly drug abuse represents another under-evaluated issue, especially with regards to MPH and Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Here we present a case of methylphenidate and cannabis-induced manic-like episode, involving a 23-year-old male student. The case presentation and management is described in details, and poly drug abuse-related problems are discussed. In conclusion, future studies should explicitly examine the effects of the combination of MPH and THC as well as other possible new patterns of poly drug intake, in order to fully understand their synergistic desirable effects and associated clinical and toxicological implications.