The Mechanisms and Effects of Psychedelics
August 30, 2024 DOI: 10.64239/pi-vl8202
Summary
Psychedelics can cause significant changes in consciousness, including ego dissolution and enhanced sensory perception, but are generally safe for most individuals. Repeated use leads to tachyphylaxis, reducing the risk of dependence. While MDMA has a potential for abuse and exhibits less tachyphylaxis than LSD or psilocybin, there is a theoretical risk of cardiac valvulopathy associated with psychedelics due to their 5-HT2B agonist activity, particularly with microdosing.
Study at a glance
| Key finding | Psychedelics are medically safe for most and induce tachyphylaxis after repeated use, limiting dependence. |
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Abstract
Psychedelics generally elicit a profound change in consciousness, often with ego dissolution, mystical experiences, and enriched sensory perception, but are medically safe for most. Tachyphylaxis occurs after repeated psychedelic administration, preventing biological dependence. MDMA may have some abuse potential and less tachyphylaxis compared to LSD/psilocybin. Psychedelics have 5-HT2B agonist activity associated with cardiac valvulopathy, presenting a theoretical risk with microdosing.