Neuropharmacology
June 5, 2018
Matthew W. Johnson, Roland R. Griffiths, Peter S. Hendricks et al.
348 citations
Psilocybin, like other classic psychedelics that activate 5-HT2A receptors, has limited reinforcing effects and only marginal, transient non-human self-administration, indicating low abuse potential. Illicit use of psilocybin-containing mushrooms is occasional, with a few lifetime uses being typical. Potential harms include dangerous behavior in unprepared, unsupervised users and exacerbation of mental illness in those predisposed to psychotic disorders, but the scope of use and associated harms are low compared to prototypical abused drugs. The medical model mitigates these risks through dose control, patient screening, preparation, follow-up, and session supervision. If approved as a medicine, the review suggests that Schedule IV placement under the US Controlled Substances Act may be appropriate.
Neuropharmacology
May 27, 2023
David J. Heal, Sharon L. Smith, Sean J. Belouin et al.
50 citations
This special issue of Neuropharmacology provides a comprehensive update on basic and clinical research on psychedelics since 2018, partly based on the NIH Psilocybin Research Speaker Series held from April to June 2021. The FDA has granted breakthrough therapy designations for psilocybin in treatment-resistant depression (2018) and major depressive disorder (2019), and for MDMA in post-traumatic stress disorder (2017). Clinical trials are ongoing for psilocybin in depression, cancer-related anxiety and depression, anorexia, PTSD, substance use disorders, and chronic pain. The collection aims to support the transition of psychedelics from bench to mainstream therapies, with global implications following potential FDA approvals.
Neuropharmacology
August 13, 2022
Ingrid Donato, Veronica Magar, Sean J. Belouin et al.
49 citations
Psychedelic and entactogen medicines like psilocybin and MDMA, when combined with psychosocial support, show potential for safe, rapid, and durable clinical improvements. Both have received Breakthrough Therapy designation from the US FDA and may gain full approval, with similar regulatory steps in other countries. Regulatory changes are also increasing access to legal or decriminalized psychedelic use outside medical settings. This review covers historical use, current evidence, and policy considerations around standards of practice, consumer protection, community engagement, equitable access, and data standards. It suggests a public-private partnership involving diverse stakeholders to co-create best practices and public policies supporting responsible, ethical use.