Nathan B. Sackett

2 papers in the library · 2 citations · publishing 2023-2026

Papers

Psychedelics for treatment of negative symptoms and depressive symptoms in schizophrenia spectrum disorder: A narrative review

Schizophrenia Research March 13, 2026 Michel Sabé, Paul Grof, Nathan B. Sackett et al. 1 citation

Serotonergic psychedelics, which are being explored for treatment-resistant depression, might also help with depressive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs). Schizophrenia and depression share some underlying brain disturbances, including problems with dopamine, glutamate, and neuroplasticity, as well as abnormal brain network connectivity. Depressive symptoms in SSDs may combine features of both disorders, and psychedelics could potentially recalibrate maladaptive brain networks. Preclinical studies show psychedelics increase dendritic spines and BDNF and restore reward sensitivity. Clinical evidence is limited: uncontrolled psychedelic use is linked to increased psychosis, but controlled administration may be tolerated in stable individuals. Only one early-phase trial with MDMA in schizophrenia is ongoing; no randomized trials have tested psilocybin or LSD in SSDs. The authors conclude that psychedelics are biologically plausible but unproven for these symptoms.

DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2026.03.003

Editorial: Psychedelics as treatments for substance use disorders: exploring therapeutic potential, risks, underlying mechanisms of action, and implementation challenges

Frontiers in Psychiatry October 19, 2023 Brian S. Barnett, Anahita Bassir Nia, Nathan B. Sackett et al. 1 citation

Psychedelics may offer new treatments for substance use disorders (SUDs), which cause high rates of illness and death. Current treatments often fail: in one trial, 57% of patients on buprenorphine and 65% on naltrexone relapsed by 24 weeks, and 40% leave 12-step groups within a year. This special issue presents seven articles exploring psychedelics' potential for SUDs, including psilocybin for methamphetamine use disorder and ketamine's effects on brain plasticity. One review found mixed evidence for ketamine's impact on synaptic markers in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. A perspective piece argues for equitable access to psychedelic therapies, including training diverse clinicians and serving higher-risk patients.

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1305478