Pheniramine dependence in obsessive-compulsive disorder: A case report

BACKGROUND: Pheniramine abuse is reported not only in patients with psychiatric disorders but also in the general population. CASE REPORT: We report a case of pheniramine dependence in a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder. The patient took about 250 mg orally daily and injected about 90 mg every week from the last six months. It reduced his anxiety, was cheaper than his other psychiatric medications, and free of stigma. He had lethargy, headache, uneasiness, anxiety, and poor sleep as withdrawal symptoms. RESULTS: This case highlights the vulnerability of those with psychiatric disorders towards pheniramine abuse. Hence, this report advocates the strict evaluation of over-the-counter drugs for patients with pre-existing psychiatric disorders.