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Ayurvedic Management of Anxiolytic Withdrawal Disorder - A Case Report

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Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Ayurvedic Management of Anxiolytic Withdrawal Disorder - A Case Report
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Author(s):

Preetha Karuvanthodi
PGD Scholar, Dept. of Manasika Swasthya Vigyan, Department of Kayachikitsa, VPSV Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala, India
Jithesh M
Professor and HOD, Department of Kayachikitsa, VPSV Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala, India
Aparna P M
Specialist (Manasika), Government Ayurveda Reasearch Institute of Mental Health and Hygiene, Kottakkal, Kerala, India


Ayushdhara:

(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)

Full text available for: Ayurvedic Management of Anxiolytic Withdrawal Disorder - A Case Report

Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10i3.1245

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The article presents a case report on the Ayurvedic management of Anxiolytic Withdrawal Disorder, focusing on a 54-year-old male patient who was dependent on the anxiolytic drug Lopez MD for two years. The patient exhibited various withdrawal symptoms, including seizures, increased aggression, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. The authors emphasize the importance of understanding the inappropriate use of anxiolytic medications, which can lead to serious health issues, including tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal syndrome. This case illustrates a holistic approach to managing withdrawal symptoms through Ayurvedic treatment, correlating mental health issues with traditional Ayurvedic concepts.

Treatment Modalities and Management

The Ayurvedic management of the patient involved a thorough assessment based on classical Ayurvedic principles and treatment methodologies. The signs and symptoms were analyzed through Dosha assessment, identifying predominance in Pitha and Kapha doshas, which manifested in mood liability and reduced sleep. A comprehensive treatment plan was implemented that included 21 days of Panchakarma therapy, comprised of Sadyovirechana, Sirodhara, Snehapana, and Virechana. The internal medications included various herbal formulations aimed at alleviating the predominant Pitha and Kapha doshas, thereby addressing the symptoms associated with withdrawal.

Evaluation of Symptoms and Effectiveness

Post-treatment evaluations utilized the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, which exhibited significant improvement in the patient’s sleep quality—from a score of 13 to 5. The clinical assessments indicated a decrease in aggressive behaviors, mood swings, and an overall enhancement in the patient's psychological condition. The treatment procedures, particularly the Sirodhara therapy, were noted to play a critical role in calming the mind and regulating neurotransmitters, thereby promoting mental well-being. The patient’s recovery under Ayurvedic supervision indicates the therapeutic efficacy of traditional Indian medicine in managing withdrawal syndromes.

Conclusion

The case report underscores the potential of Ayurvedic protocols in effectively managing Anxiolytic Withdrawal Disorder. By addressing both the physical and psychological dimensions of the disorder through a tailored holistic approach, the treatment was able to restore balance to the patient's doshas, leading to improved overall health and quality of life. The findings advocate for further research into the integration of Ayurvedic practices in modern mental health treatment, potentially providing innovative insights for better management of substance use disorders.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What are the symptoms of anxiolytic withdrawal disorder?

Symptoms of anxiolytic withdrawal disorder include seizures, increased aggression, decreased sleep, mood swings, irritability, anxiety, self-talk, and crying spells. These signs can develop within hours to days after reducing or stopping anxiolytic use.

How was the patient treated in the case report?

The patient received Ayurvedic management including internal medicines and a 21-day Panchakarma treatment, which comprised procedures like Virechana and Sirodhara. This aimed to balance Doshas and alleviate withdrawal symptoms, resulting in significant improvement in sleep and mood.

What role does Ayurveda play in managing anxiolytic withdrawal?

Ayurveda addresses anxiolytic withdrawal through the concept of Unmada, focusing on balancing the affected Doshas. Treatments such as Panchakarma and tailored internal medicines work to detoxify and restore mental and physical health, aiding in symptom relief and improving quality of life.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic Management of Anxiolytic Withdrawal Disorder - A Case Report�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Dosha (Dosa):
[See 'Dosha']

2) Drug:
Substances used in the treatment, cure, prevention, or diagnosis of diseases or used to otherwise enhance physical or mental well-being. In the text, drugs like anxiolytics are referenced for their roles in mental health management but also warned against for their potential to cause dependency and withdrawal symptoms.

3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
A system of medicine that is native to India, Ayurveda emphasizes balance in bodily systems using diet, herbal treatment, and yogic breathing. The text discusses managing anxiolytic withdrawal disorder through Ayurvedic approaches like Panchakarma, emphasizing a holistic approach to restoring mental health.

4) Madhyama:
This term is used in Ayurveda to describe something of moderate level or intensity. In the case study, several diagnoses and physiological states of the patient are described as 'Madhyama,' indicating median conditions.

5) Medicine:
Pharmacological substances used to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease. The text includes Ayurvedic medicines like Swetha Sankhapushpi, Yashti, and Aswagandha Churna to manage symptoms linked to anxiolytic withdrawal, emphasizing both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments.

6) Anger (Angry):
A strong emotional reaction of displeasure or antagonism. In the case reported, anger was a symptom associated with Kapha and Pitha imbalances due to anxiolytic withdrawal, addressed through various Ayurvedic treatments.

7) Shirodhara (Sirodhara, Shiras-dhara):
A form of Ayurvedic therapy that involves pouring liquids over the forehead. In the treatment described, Sirodhara was used to induce tranquility, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality, benefiting the patient with anxiolytic withdrawal disorder.

8) Pitha:
One of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, primarily responsible for metabolism and digestion. In the text, symptoms like anger and reduced sleep are linked to Pitha imbalance, which is addressed through specific treatments and medicines.

9) Mud:
A temporary state of mind or feeling. The patient's mood liability, or fluctuations in emotional state, is a symptom observed in the case study, associated with Kapha Dosha and managed through Ayurvedic protocols.

10) Mental health:
A state of well-being wherein individuals cope with normal stresses of life, work productively, and contribute to their community. The journal details using Ayurvedic practices to address mental health issues related to substance use and withdrawal.

11) Substance:
For the context of the article, it refers to drugs or chemical compounds that may lead to substance use disorders when misused. The article discusses the misuse of anxiolytic drugs and the resultant withdrawal symptoms, managed through Ayurvedic treatment.

12) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Conditions or practices conducive to maintaining health and preventing disease. The Government Ayurveda Research Institute for Mental Health and Hygiene focuses on comprehensive treatment including both mental and physical cleanliness practices.

13) Unmada:
In Ayurveda, Unmada refers to a category of mental disorders that can involve various symptoms like altered consciousness, memory issues, and impaired social behavior. The text aligns Unmada with anxiolytic withdrawal, managed through Panchakarma and internal medications.

14) Kapha:
One of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for structure and lubrication in the body. The text also attributes symptoms like mood liability and slurred speech to Kapha imbalance in the context of withdrawal disorder.

15) Agni:
The concept of digestive fire in Ayurveda. Agni affects processes of digestion and metabolism, with its normalization being a key aspect of Ayurvedic treatment discussed in the management of the withdrawal disorder.

16) Mental disorder:
A wide range of mental health conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. The article specifically discusses the treatment of mental disorders resulting from anxiolytic withdrawal within the framework of Ayurvedic medicine.

17) Raja:
One of the three attributes (Gunas) of the mind in Ayurveda, representing activity and restlessness. In the case study, imbalances between Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas contribute to mental disorders like anxiolytic withdrawal syndrome.

18) Anulomana:
A therapeutic process in Ayurveda that directs the flow of Doshas towards their natural paths. The case study includes treatments like Virechana and Sirodhara, which aim to correct the flow and balance of Vata Dosha.

19) Knowledge:
[see source text or glossary: Knowledge]

20) Toxicity:
The quality of being toxic or poisonous. Overuse or misuse of anxiolytic drugs can lead to toxicity, with symptoms like withdrawal needing careful management through detoxification processes in Ayurveda.

21) Vomiting:
The involuntary expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. Identified as a symptom in anxiolytic withdrawal, it can be part of the clinical picture that Ayurvedic treatment aims to address.

22) Indriya (Imdriya):
The senses or faculties of perception in Ayurveda. Indriya in the presented case refers to the sensory control impacted by mental health issues like Unmada, requiring specific treatments for stabilization.

23) Sattva (Shattva):
The quality of balance, harmony, goodness, and purity. In Ayurveda, a deterioration of Sattva is linked to mental disorders, and treatments aim to restore these attributes to manage conditions like anxiolytic withdrawal.

24) Satmya:
The concept in Ayurveda of compatibility or habituation to various substances and lifestyle practices. The case study considers the patient's Satmya for personalized treatment planning.

25) Yashti (Yasti):
A medicinal herb (Glycyrrhiza glabra) used in Ayurveda. In the case study, Yashti helps alleviate Pitha Dosha and calm the mind, part of the protocol for treating anxiolytic withdrawal symptoms.

26) Sakthi:
Strength or energy, particularly in the context of digestive and metabolic power in Ayurveda. The case study assesses the patient's Jarana Sakthi and uses treatments to normalize it.

27) Family:
The patient's family background and relationships, discussed in the context of the case study as influencing his mental health and substance use behaviors. His father's rigid and fearful nature is noted in his history.

28) Manas (Mano, Manash):
The mind, crucial in Ayurveda for understanding mental health. The case report discusses the impact of anxiolytic drugs on Manas and the therapies employed for mental stabilization.

29) Rajas:
[see 'Raja']

30) Tamas:
One of the three Gunas (Tamas, Rajas, Sattva) representing inertia, darkness, or disorder. The text notes that an increase in Tamas contributes to mental health disorders like Unmada and anxiolytic withdrawal.

31) Taila (Thaila):
Oil used in various Ayurvedic treatments like Abhyanga (oil massage). The case study involves Dhanwantaram Taila for body massage to balance Doshas during the Panchakarma protocol.

32) Pulse:
The rhythmical throbbing of the arteries as blood is propelled through them, typically measured in the wrist. In Ayurveda, the patient's pulse rate is checked as part of the baseline physical examination.

33) Tama:
[see 'Tamas']

34) Mana:
[see source text or glossary: Mana]

35) Discussion:
A detailed treatment of issues discussed in the text, like the Ayurvedic perspective on anxiolytic withdrawal disorder and the rationale behind each therapeutic intervention.

36) Meditation:
A mental discipline and practice involving concentration and focus. In the article, meditation forms part of the rehabilitation techniques to maintain mental well-being post-withdrawal.

37) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
An Ayurvedic external therapeutic procedure involving oil massage, used to bring about the liquefaction of Doshas. In the treatment described, Abhyanga helps in addressing the patient's withdrawal symptoms.

38) Vishuddhi (Visuddhi):
Purification or cleansing in Ayurveda. Procedures like Virechana and Snehapana aim at Srothosuddhi (purification of channels) and Indriya Visuddhi (purification of senses) as part of the treatment protocol.

39) Kshanadi (Ksanadi, Kshana-adi):
[see source text or glossary: Kshanadi]

40) Delusion (Deluded):
A belief or impression that is firmly maintained despite being contradicted by reality or rational argument. The text indicates such mental states are part of anxiolytic withdrawal, managed through Ayurvedic approaches.

41) Sweating (Sweat):
The process of perspiring, often intensified in withdrawal scenarios. Autonomic hyperactivity, including sweating, is mentioned as part of withdrawal symptoms managed through Ayurvedic interventions.

42) Epilepsy:
A neurological disorder marked by sudden recurrent episodes of sensory disturbance, loss of consciousness, or convulsions. Benzodiazepines are noted for their use in treating epilepsy, among other conditions.

43) Hemanta (Hemamta):
[see source text or glossary: Hemanta]

44) Kashaya (Kasaya):
An Ayurvedic decoction made by boiling herbs, used for its medicinal properties. In the case study, Usheera Kashaya Dhara is employed to treat the Pitha imbalance.

45) Disease:
A disorder of structure or function in a human, animal, or plant. The article particularly focuses on mental health diseases exacerbated by drug withdrawal, managed through Ayurveda.

46) Craving (Crave, Craved):
An intense, urgent, or abnormal desire or longing. Drug craving is a significant aspect of withdrawal disorders, addressed by balancing psychiatric and physiological states through Ayurvedic treatments.

47) Purana:
[see source text or glossary: Purana]

48) Mantha (Mamtha):
A kind of medicated drink used in Ayurvedic treatments. Kharjuradi Mantha is administered to balance Pitha Dosha in the patient experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

49) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Clarified butter used as a therapeutic agent in Ayurveda. Tikthaka Ghrita is administered in the case study for its properties in pacifying Pitha and Kapha Doshas.

50) Ceshta (Cesta):
Effort or action, and in medical terms can refer to motor activity and mobility. [see source text or glossary: Ceshta] [The patient in the study does not present issues with Ceshta.]

51) Samana (Shamana):
Palliative measures in Ayurveda aimed at alleviating symptoms without significant purgation or emesis.

52) Jarana:
The process of digestion and assimilation. The text assesses Jarana Sakthi (digestive power) as part of the patient's health metrics.

53) Kerala:
A state in South India where the Government Ayurveda Research Institute for Mental Health and Hygiene is located, overseeing the Ayurvedic management of anxiolytic withdrawal disorder.

54) Manasa (Manasha):
[see 'Manas']

55) Nausea:
A feeling of sickness with an inclination to vomit, noted as a withdrawal symptom in anxiolytic withdrawal disorder cases.

56) Nature:
The inherent or essential quality of something. The text provides brief insights into the nature of the patient's symptoms and history, which help tailor Ayurvedic treatments.

57) Desire:
[see source text or glossary: Desire]

58) Bhumi:
Literally means 'earth' or 'land,' and refers to the patient's residing environment and the geographical influence on their health.

59) Acara:
[see source text or glossary: Achara]

60) Dhara:
Stream or flow, often referring to therapeutic streams of liquids in treatments like Sirodhara in Ayurveda.

61) Dhatu:
Fundamental bodily tissues in Ayurveda, contributing to the physical and functional well-being of the body.

62) Usma (Ushma):
Heat, particularly used to describe therapeutic heating methods like Ushma Sweda in Ayurvedic practice.

63) India:
The country where Ayurveda originated and where the case study is situated.

64) Kalam:
[see source text or glossary: Kalam]

65) Ayus (Ayush):
The acronym for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy; systems of healthcare practiced in India. The journal is focused on research in AYUSH and allied systems.

66) Money:
[see source text or glossary: Money]

67) Carva:
All-encompassing or complete. In the Ayurvedic context, Sarva Sareeram refers to the entire body being considered during diagnosis and treatment.

68) Hara:
Destroyer or one who removes, often used in the context of properties of medicinal substances in Ayurveda.

69) Deha:
[see source text or glossary: Deha]

70) Vaya:
Age, used in Ayurvedic assessment to determine the patient's health and treatment suitability.

71) Rasa (Rasha):
One of the fundamental principles in Ayurveda, referring to taste and also to the essence of food or medicine influencing health.

72) Yoga:
A practice involving breath control, simple meditation, and the adoption of specific bodily postures, practiced for health and relaxation. It forms part of the holistic management post-withdrawal in Ayurveda.

73) Vata:
One of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for movement and communication within the body. Treatments are aimed at balancing Vata to manage symptoms like insomnia and anxiety.

74) Shila (Sila):
Behavior or conduct, particularly moral and ethical actions. Increased anger and reduced sleep are related to the disruption of Sila due to Dosha imbalances.

75) Food:
Substances consumed for nutritional support. Dietary habits and desires, like the reduction in food intake, are observed and managed in the case study as part of Ayurvedic treatment.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Ayurvedic Management of Anxiolytic Withdrawal Disorder - A Case Report�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Pittadosha, Kaphadosha, Panchakarma treatment, Ayurvedic Management, Clinical presentation, Cognitive impairment, Psychomotor impairment, Withdrawal symptoms, Detoxification, DSM-IV, Ayurvedic INTERNAL MEDICINES, Substance use, Drug tolerance.

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