Sławomir Murawiec

Psychodynamic psychopharmacology in clinical practice - interpretations of the adverse impact of pharmacotherapy. Case report. 51-56

Summary

Aim. Psychodynamic psychopharmacology offers the possibility of the implementation of psychodynamic thinking and interpretations in the process of the pharmacotherapy of mental disorders. It can be helpful in improving results of treatment and solving difficulties in its course.

Material and method. The case report of a female patient after a psychotic episode is presented. During the treatment with quetiapine the patient presented complaints about adverse effects like weight gain and somnolence. These symptoms (at least partially) resulted from her emotional problems and changed after psychodynamic interpretation. After stopping the medication the patient's reactions to stress and the process of separation from her mother changed dramatically. It was probably due to the discontinuation of medication.

Results. In some cases, adverse events of medication have not only biological but also emotional roots. If properly recognized, these can be interpreted and changed by psychological tools.

Conclusions. Psychodynamic psychopharmacology can be useful in the development of a deeper understanding and problem solving strategies in the process of the pharmacotherapy of mental disorders.

pharmacotherapy / psychoanalysis / antipsychotics / adverse events / interpretation