Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelics: Mechanisms, Applications, and Challenges

Psilocybin shows efficacy in treatment-resistant depression and cancer-associated anxiety, while MDMA combined with psychotherapy shows promise for post-traumatic stress disorder. For addictions, psilocybin is effective for alcohol use disorder and nicotine dependence, and ayahuasca shows potential for various substance use disorders. The evidence on efficacy, safety, and limitations of psychedelics like psilocybin, MDMA, LSD, and ayahuasca as monotherapy or in combination with assisted therapies is reviewed.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The resurgence of research on the use of psychedelic substances for the treatment of mental disorders and addictions has generated significant interest in the scientific and clinical communities. This chapter examines the current evidence on the efficacy, safety, and limitations of psychedelics in the treatment of these conditions. Studies investigating the use of psychedelics as monotherapy and in combination with assisted therapies are reviewed, highlighting the potential of substances such as psilocybin, MDMA, LSD, and ayahuasca. In the treatment of mental disorders, psilocybin has shown efficacy in treatment-resistant depression and cancer-associated anxiety, while MDMA combined with psychotherapy shows promise for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In the field of addictions, psilocybin has been shown to be effective for alcohol use disorder and nicotine dependence, and ayahuasca shows potential in the treatment of various substance use disorders.