Polypharmacology or “Pharmacological Promiscuity” In Psychedelic Research: What Are We Missing?
ACS Chemical Neuroscience – October 06, 2020
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
A holistic approach to studying psychedelics like ayahuasca and Psilocybe mushrooms could reveal critical insights often overlooked in isolated compound research. Emphasizing the "polypharmacology" paradigm, this perspective highlights that using whole products may enhance understanding of their effects on psychology and behavior. Ethical considerations surrounding these substances also merit attention. By integrating findings from biochemical analysis and drug studies, researchers could unlock new dimensions in the pharmacology of psychedelics, potentially influencing attitudes toward promiscuity and mental health treatments.
Abstract
Research with psychedelic drugs has mainly focused on isolated compounds. However, this approach is challenged by the "polypharmacology" paradigm. In this Viewpoint, we suggest that we may be missing something if we do not use the whole product in the case of ayahuasca or Psilocybe mushrooms. After describing how research on psychedelic drugs can be effectively combined with the polypharmacology paradigm, ethical issues are also briefly discussed.