Is the psychedelic experience an essential aspect of the therapeutic effect of serotonergic psychedelics? Conceptual, discovery, development and implementation implications for psilocybin and related agents

The article reviews the pharmacology and therapeutic potential of psychedelics such as psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide, focusing on their mechanisms of action and regulatory status. It discusses how these compounds influence neurotransmitter receptors and their possible applications in treating mood disorders, including depression. The authors highlight the growing interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy and note that the FDA has granted breakthrough therapy designation for some psychedelic treatments, suggesting a shift in the medical and regulatory landscape toward these substances as antidepressants.

Study at a glance

Abstract

KEYWORDS: Psychedelicpsilocybinlysergic acid diethylamidemood disordersantidepressantsdiscoverypharmacologyFDA