Porphyria

Question 1

Porphyria is also known as ‘the little imitator’ as it mimics a number of common psychiatric presentations.

Porphyria can be precipitated by psychotropics drugs. Common ones include:-

Answer 1

Barbiturates
Benzodiazepines
Sulpiride
Certain mood stabilizers

Question 2

Porphyria presents in many different ways. Symptoms to look out for include:

Answer 2

Abdominal pain
Mental state changes
Constipation
Vomiting
Muscle weakness