The immunomodulatory effects of classical psychedelics: A systematic review of preclinical studies
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry September 7, 2024 Zhen Xuen Brandon Low, Wei Shen Ng, Bey Hing Goh et al. 19 citations
A systematic review of 40 preclinical studies found that classical psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD, and DMT can reduce inflammation. In 29 of 36 studies measuring inflammatory cytokines, at least one cytokine decreased after psychedelic administration. Effects on immune cell activity were mixed, with half of 10 studies showing an increase and half a decrease. The compounds alleviated pre-existing inflammation but promoted inflammation when given under normal conditions. These findings may guide future clinical trials on psychedelics for inflammatory conditions.