Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
2 papers in the library · 32 citations · publishing 2024
Journal of Pain Research March 1, 2024 Christopher L. Robinson, Alexandra Fonseca, Efemena Diejomaoh et al. 32 citations
Psychedelics may help reduce pain symptoms associated with various chronic pain conditions, but more rigorous research—specifically randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials—is required to determine their effectiveness for chronic, non-cancer pain.
Pain Medicine December 10, 2024 Christopher L. Robinson, Pawan Solanki, S Snyder et al.
Psychedelics such as LSD and psilocybin primarily act as 5HT2A receptor partial agonists, influencing mood, perception, and decision-making. Research suggests they can promote synaptic growth, release oxytocin, and exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. MRI studies indicate psilocybin disrupts connections between the anterior hippocampus and the default mode network, potentially explaining therapeutic effects. From 2015 to 2020, psychedelic use among people over age 12 in the United States increased by over 40%, with over 7.1 million reporting use between 2019 and 2020. Despite this, formal training on psychedelics in medical education remains limited. The report outlines a proposed curriculum to prepare future clinicians for integrating psychedelics into practice, emphasizing the need for education on mechanisms, therapeutic uses, risks, and legal considerations.