Iatrogenic Psychotic Depressive Reaction in Hypertensive Patients
WADE H. LEWIS M.D.1
1 Chairman, Department of Psychiatry, Santa Rosa Medical Center and Medical Director, Psychiatric and Rehabilitation Center, Villa Rosa, 5115 Medical Dr., San Antonio, Tex. 78229
The author describes the progress of psychotic depression in hypertensive patients whose medication has produced hyponatremia and low sodium levels. He cautions psychiatrists against prescribing drugs like imipramine, since these may make the patient increase his fluid intake, decreasing his electrolyte and sodium levels and producing severe physical and mental reactions.
