CHLOROQUINE-INDUCED MANIA

Objective: To find out whether chloroquine by itself can induce a mani c syndrome and to study the course of illness in such cases. Method: A l cases of manic episodes occurring in clear consciousness were scruti nized and those occurring after the use of chloroquine were included i n the study. One case seen by one of the authors in the community was included. The cases were followed for variable periods. Result: Six ca ses 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. Conclusio n: It is concluded that chloroquine can cause secondary mania and it s hould be used cautiously in the predisposed.