Psychedelic Treatments in Adolescent Psychopharmacology: Considering Safety, Ethics, and Scientific Rigor

Interest in psychedelic therapies for adults is growing, with substances like MDMA for PTSD, psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression, and LSD for generalized anxiety disorder showing promise. However, research on these therapies in children and adolescents is limited, with no recent trials. Adolescents may still experiment with these substances recreationally or therapeutically as accessibility increases, raising significant concerns due to their vulnerability. The authors advocate for structured, safe, and well-controlled exploration of psychedelic therapies in adolescents.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Interest in psychedelic therapies for adults is rapidly growing, with substances like 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine for posttraumatic stress disorder, psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression, and lysergic acid diethylamide for generalized anxiety disorder showing promise. However, research on these therapies in children and adolescents is limited, with no recent trials. Despite this lack of scientific exploration, adolescents may still experiment with these substances for both recreational and therapeutic purposes as accessibility continues to increase. This raises significant concerns, as adolescents are a vulnerable population requiring heightened caution and safety measures. Therefore, we advocate for structured, safe, and well-controlled exploration of psychedelic therapies in adolescents.