Endoxifen for the Management of Pathological Gambling in a Male Patient Who Overinvested in Cryptocurrency: A Case Report

Abstract

Gambling is a high-risk activity that can be addictive and has both financial and personal repercussions. There is an association between gambling risk and intensive engagement in cryptocurrency trading. The management of gambling disorder has relied on medications including naltrexone and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which have certain limitations including adverse effects and the need for longer treatment, respectively. This case report describes the use of adjunctive endoxifen in a male patient who had overinvested in cryptocurrency. The patient had used his own funds and had borrowed as well as stolen money for this purpose. The patient was counseled and treated with endoxifen, which successfully helped him overcome the habit of cryptocurrency gambling. Endoxifen is a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor and PKC overactivity leads to impulsivity. Hence, the use of endoxifen could be an effective strategy in the management of gambling disorders. Larger studies exploring this approach are needed.