Case Report: Psychiatric Symptoms Associated With the Moderna mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine Administration and Their Resolution

Abstract

This case report describes the sudden presentation and successful cessation of psychiatric symptoms following the first administration of the Moderna mRNA vaccine against the SARS-CoV-2 virus during early 2021. The process of discovery of symptoms is described, along with an empirical procedure which identified St. John’s wort as the mediating agent. Implications for self-medication of mild depression are discussed. Hypericin, a constituent agent in St. John’s wort, interacts with the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Sensitization to hypericin following vaccine administration is consistent with the observed symptoms.