Status Cataplecticus Following Abrupt Withdrawal of Clomipramine

Presentation This is a case of a 31 year old gentleman who suffered an attack of status cataplecticus following abrupt withdrawal of clomipramine. Diagnosis Clomipramine was temporarily discontinued in order to confirm a suspected diagnosis of narcolepsy using Multiple Sleep Latency Testing. This precipitated an episode of status cataplecticus which resolved with re-introduction of therapy. A diagnosis of narcolepsy was later confirmed with undetectable levels of hypocretin/orexin in the CSF. Treatment Re-introduction of clomipramine led to resolution of status cataplecticus. The patient now remains stable with regards to his cataplexy on clomipramine 30mg. Discussion There have been a total of 4 case reports of status cataplecticus following withdrawal of antidepressant therapy. In all cases, reintroduction of anti-cataplectic therapy led to resolution of attacks. The abrupt discontinuation of an SSRI is believed to precipitate cataplexy attacks due to reduction in noradrenergic tone.

Diethylstilbestrol in the treatment of rape victims.

Despite growing controversy surrounding its use as a "morning after pill," diethylstilbestrol (DES) is prescribed liberally for rape victims. Guidelines for its use in these patients is lacking. Of 150 consecutive rape victims treated at a university medical center, 63 (42 percent) received prescriptions for DES. Of the 55 (87 percent) on whom follow-up was obtained, in 40 (73 percent) there were substantial side effects-nausea or vomiting, or both. At least six (11 percent) did not complete therapy because of these side effects. The authors offer guidelines for use of DES for rape victims and a plan for patient education and follow-up.