Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder
Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) is a rare clinical condition in which patients who have had previous exposure to a hallucinogenic substance continue to experience perceptual distortions months to years after complete cessation of the initial substance use.
HPPD has been observed more frequently in adolescents who use psychedelics[1]. After a single use of substances such as LSD, psilocybin, or cannabis, individuals are at an increased risk of developing HPPD. The condition appears to be more common among those with a history of psychological disorders or substance misuse, though its precise neurological mechanisms remain unclear.
Currently, there is no standardized treatment for HPPD. However, some interventions show promise, including lamotrigine, benzodiazepines, and non-invasive brain stimulation. Research on these treatments is limited due to the rarity of the condition and the variability of its symptoms.
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