PSYCHEDELIC PHARMACOLOGY IN PSYCHIATRY: THE MECHANISMS AND THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF PSILOCYBIN, MDMA, AND LSD IN MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS
Journal of medical & health sciences review. March 11, 2025 Ahmad Daryani, Muhammad Ali, Usman Ul Haq
Psychedelic substances like psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD are being studied for treating depression, PTSD, and anxiety. They affect serotonergic receptors, altering consciousness, perception, and cognition. Psilocybin and LSD promote neuroplasticity and change the default mode network, supporting lasting improvement in depressive symptoms and existential anxiety. MDMA reduces fear and improves emotional processing in PTSD patients. Trials indicate symptom relief can occur after a few sessions, unlike traditional antidepressants requiring constant use. Challenges include legal regulation, ethical concerns, and side effects such as temporary increased anxiety and cardiovascular issues. The paper reviews neurobiological effects, therapeutic efficacy, and legal contexts, emphasizing the need for further research and policy reform.