Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelic Drugs: Navigating High Hopes, Strong Claims, Weak Evidence, and Big Money
Annual Review of Psychology August 2, 2024 Keith Humphreys, Daniel Stjepanović, Wayne Hall et al. 18 citations
Many psychedelic drugs lack rigorous evaluation, but the science is improving. Ketamine shows promise for treatment-resistant depression despite risks like addiction and cystitis. MDMA for PTSD and psilocybin for depression, end-of-life dysphoria, and alcohol use disorder merit further replication. The mechanisms of benefit and harm remain unclear. Rigorous research is needed to assess therapeutic potential, and policies should prioritize public health over profit.