The Return of Psychedelics: Still Time to Prevent Tragedy
Psychiatric News March 31, 2021 Stanley N. Caroff 1 citation
A psychiatrist warns that the current revival of psychedelic drugs for therapeutic use risks repeating the opioid crisis if commercial interests are not restrained. While early trials show promise for conditions like PTSD and depression, most evidence comes from uncontrolled or underpowered studies, and serious adverse effects—including psychosis, hyperthermia, and life-threatening complications—are documented in unsupervised settings. The author argues that approval by agencies like the FDA, combined with aggressive marketing, could lead to widespread misuse, especially among vulnerable groups. He calls for rigorous safeguards, public education, and prioritizing broader access to primary care and social services over commercial psychedelic expansion.