Risks and adverse events associated with the use of psychedelics
Joanna C. Neill, Mohammed Shahid, Rosalind Gittins, Anne K. Schlag, Frank I. Tarazi
Psychedelics as Psychiatric Medications March 1, 2023 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1093/med/9780192863607.003.0010
Summary
A comprehensive understanding of the risks and adverse effects of psychedelics is crucial for their integration into mainstream therapy. Despite recent clinical trials, knowledge gaps persist, particularly regarding drug interactions with antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants. Ongoing pharmacovigilance after regulatory approval will be necessary to ensure safety. Future trials should also involve a more ethnically diverse population to maximize patient benefit while carefully evaluating safety and risk at every stage.
Study at a glance
| Key finding | Improved understanding of psychedelic risks and drug interactions is essential before their adoption in mainstream medicine. |
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Abstract
Abstract Improved understanding of the potential risks and adverse effects of psychedelics is essential before psychedelic-assisted therapy is adopted into mainstream medicine. In spite of numerous recent clinical trials, gaps in knowledge remain. A comprehensive analysis of human receptor pharmacology is required to inform clinical dosing strategies and improve the understanding of drug-drug interactions, specifically relating to psychedelic medicines with currently available antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants. Pharmacovigilance will be essential post-regulatory approval to ensure patient safety and tolerability, and future clinical trials must include a more ethnically diverse population. This is one of the most important and exciting innovations in psychiatry for over half a century. In order to maximize the potential for patient benefit, it is essential that we proceed carefully and conduct all essential safety and risk-benefit evaluations at each stage.