The successful treatment of a gender dysphoric patient with pimozide.
OBJECTIVE
The case is reported of a gender dysphoric patient who responded successfully to pharmacotherapy with pimozide.


METHODS
An adult male patient with a borderline learning disability presented with cross-dressing and a strong wish to undergo a sex change.


METHODS
Supportive psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy with pimozide was tried.


RESULTS
There was an excellent response to pimozide 2 mg daily, with a cessation of both cross-dressing and the wish for sex reassignment. When, after 1 year, the dose was reduced to 1 mg daily, there was a rapid return of the cross-dressing and the wish for sex reassignment. An increase in the dose again led to a remission which has been maintained since then.


CONCLUSIONS
Pharmacotherapy with pimozide should be considered in cases of doubtful gender dysphoria.
Puri
B K
BK
Department of Psychiatry, Charing Cross and Westminster Medical School, University of London, UK.
Singh
I
I
D000328:Adult; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D005783:Gender Identity; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010868:Pimozide / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D014189:Transsexualism / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D010868:Pimozide