Safety issues of psilocybin and LSD as potential rapid acting antidepressants and potential challenges

In the reviewed studies, no serious adverse events were linked to psilocybin or LSD administration. Most side effects were anticipated, manageable, and temporary. However, concerns persist about certain effects like dissociation, paranoia, and confusion. The authors conclude that larger randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm therapeutic benefits and further assess safety and tolerability.

Study at a glance

Abstract

There were no serious AEs related to psilocybin and LSD administration. Most AEs were expected, manageable, and transient. Nevertheless, safety and tolerability concerns regarding some effects, such as dissociation, paranoia, and confusion, remain. Thus, randomized controlled trials with bigger samples are warranted to confirm their therapeutic effects and further investigate their safety and tolerability.