Self-induced water intoxication in schizophrenic patients

Abstract

Cases [21] of self-induced water intoxication were studied and 25 others were cited in the literature. Of the patients (3) demonstrated at least temporary inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, 3 were receiving a diuretic, and the other 15 appeared to have pure water intoxication. Patients (15) were receiving a psychotropic medication. Self-induced water intoxication appears to be more common in schizophrenic patients than is generally realized and should be suspected in any schizophrenic patient who develops convulsions or coma. Hyperdopaminergic CNS activity may be involved, and the possibility of a mechanism similar to that for tardive dyskinesia was suggested.