Chloroquine induced mania.

OBJECTIVE

To find out whether chloroquine by itself can induce a manic syndrome and to study the course of illness in such cases.

METHOD

All cases of manic episodes occurring in clear consciousness were scrutinized and those occurring after the use of chloroquine were included in the study. One case seen by one of the authors in the community was included. The cases were followed for variable periods.

RESULTS

Six cases of chloroquine induced mania were identified of which two subtypes could be delineated with heterogeneous course, variable severity and difference in susceptibility of recurrence with rechallenge.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that chloroquine can cause secondary mania and it should be used cautiously in the predisposed.