Expert opinion on emerging drugs
June 1, 2025
Maria-Alejandra Umbacia, Marta Ximena Leon, Jose-Manuel Quintero et al.
Psilocybin, a psychedelic drug, is being studied for medicinal use, particularly in adult psychiatry and palliative care. Clinical trials show it may benefit patients with treatment-resistant depression and those in palliative care, often in specialist centers. It acts rapidly by targeting the 5HT2A receptor. Its psychoactive effects are well documented, but their clinical importance is debated. Many questions remain about its efficacy for other conditions and its role in psychotherapy.
Expert review of neurotherapeutics
September 1, 2024
Joseph Blanco, Pamela Quimbaya, Manuel Mena et al.
A review of the neurobiology of major depressive disorder and the pharmacology, efficacy, safety, and tolerability of dextromethorphan hydrobromide combined with bupropion hydrochloride (Auvelity®) for adults. The combination is an approved alternative for MDD, usable as a first-line therapy, as a second option after failed remission with a serotonin-targeting agent, and for treatment-resistant depression. Clinicians' familiarity with both drugs may increase acceptability, and further research into other indications, including addiction disorders, may yield additional benefits. The review is based on observational studies, clinical trials, and other secondary studies from systematic literature searches.