Abstract
A literature review of psychotomimetic side effects associated with the use of pentazocine is presented. Clinical experience with pentazocine indicates a 1–2 percent occurrence of disturbing psychotomimetic side effects. Side effects noted include hallucinations, delusions, depression, distorted body images and depersonalization. These adverse effects occur more frequently with parenteral administration and appear to be dose-related. The most severe acute types of psychotic reactions tend to develop within two hours following a single administration. Usually the psychotic phenomenon is of a transitory nature, lasting from one to twenty-four hours. Acute symptoms such as hallucinations and distorted body images generally subside within hours, while depressive states may persist for one or more days. Treatment of the psychotomimetic effects may require only reassurance and discontinuation of pentazocine therapy. Benzodiazepines may be helpful in alleviating anxiety and reducing the effects of pentazocine.
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