Stigma in drug research holding back new therapies

Several drugs previously known as illicit party substances—ketamine, medicinal cannabis, MDMA, psilocybin, and DMT—are being investigated as therapies for mental illness. The text argues that these treatments should continue to undergo proper clinical trials rather than being adopted prematurely. Mental health disorders are a growing cause of disability, and these novel therapies offer potential new options, but rigorous evaluation remains essential.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Therapy is turning to drugs previously known for being illicit party substances. But there’s no reason to abandon proper trials. A range of new therapies for mental illness were previously considered unthinkable — party drugs including ketamine, medicinal cannabis and psychedelics like MDMA, psilocybin and DMT. With mental health disorders a growing cause of disability […]