Lifetime Psychedelic Use and Opioid Use Disorder Severity: Substance-Use Pattern Specific and Mental Health–Dependent Associations in a National Survey
PsyArXiv – November 02, 2025
Source: PPR
Summary
Intriguingly, individuals with a history of psychedelic use may experience less severe opioid use disorder (OUD). Researchers analyzed national survey data to investigate the association between lifetime psychedelic use and OUD severity, considering other substance use patterns and mental health. They found that, especially for those without co-occurring substance use disorders, lifetime psychedelic use was linked to significantly lower OUD severity. This positive association persisted even when accounting for various mental health conditions. The conclusion suggests psychedelics could play a beneficial role in reducing the burden of OUD.
Abstract
Lifetime Psychedelic Use and Opioid Use Disorder Severity: Substance-Use Pattern Specific and Mental Health–Dependent Associations in a National Survey