Psychedelics Research Roundup: September 22

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In this Research Roundup, we explore new studies on attitudes about the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of psychedelics as a treatment for mental health disorders including treatment-resistant depression.

Psilocybin in the Treatment of TRD

This article discusses the use of serotonergic agonists such as psilocybin in treating treatment-resistant depression (TRD). In it, the investigators highlight that, although there is growing interest in this treatment, there are challenges in interpreting its effects in clinical trials. The investigators also point out that the role of psychotherapy alongside psilocybin treatment is not as significant as is commonly assumed, and that there is a need for further research to establish psilocybin as an efficacious treatment for depression.

“The challenge for the future, along with safe delivery of the experience, appears likely to be the choice of appropriate additional treatment which may have the potential to enhance outcomes in the long term, be it pharmacological, neurostimulatory, or psychotherapeutic,” the investigators concluded. “For the present, however, the challenge is to complete a convincing phase 3 program leading to eventual approval of psilocybin as a medicine.”

Reference

Goodwin GM. The psychedelic experience and treatment-resistant depression. World Psychiatry. 2023;22(3):420-422.

Examining Attitudes About Psychedelics in the Treatment of Mental Health Conditions

This study examined the attitudes of Australian politicians and key stakeholders toward using psychedelic agents for mental health treatment in supervised settings. In the study, both politicians and stakeholders expressed cautious optimism about this approach but raised concerns about the lack of sufficient research on the treatment’s efficacy and feasibility. The politicians also mentioned that the attitudes surrounding psychedelics could hinder legislative support.

In general, the study investigators concluded that, “additional research and a clear presentation of this research are needed before the clinical use of psychedelics can be supported.”

Reference

Kunstler BE, Smith L, Langmead CJ, et al. "We don't want to run before we walk": the attitudes of Australian stakeholders towards using psychedelics for mental health conditions. Public Health Res Pract. 2023;33(3):3332321.

Hallucinogens, Wellbeing, and Posttraumatic Growth After the Pandemic

This longitudinal, transcultural study examined the relationship between hallucinogenic drug use, psychological wellbeing, and psychopathology scales during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study results showed that hallucinogenic drug use was associated with lower levels of psychological distress and higher levels of wellbeing and posttraumatic growth. The study highlights the need for policy changes to align with scientific evidence regarding the potential benefits of these substances.

“Overall, these findings have public policy implications that should be addressed,” the investigators concluded. “Further research should elucidate the role of hallucinogenic drugs in large-scale catastrophes, such as pandemics and wars.”

Reference

Bouso JC, Révész D, Ona G, et al. Longitudinal and transcultural assessment of the relationship between hallucinogens, well-being, and post-traumatic growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sci Rep. 2023;13(1):14052.

Note: Assistance from ChatPDF and ChatGPT was used in the preparation of this research roundup.

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