The translational potential of salvinorin A: systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies.
Translational psychiatry October 10, 2025 Wolfgang Emanuel Zürrer, Lionel Wettstein, Helena D Aicher et al. 3 citations
Salvinorin A, the main psychoactive compound in Salvia divinorum, shows therapeutic potential for pain, addiction, and stroke in animal models, but its side effects—including anxiety, motor and cognitive impairment—may limit clinical use. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 82 studies found anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anti-addictive effects, though depression results were inconsistent. Doses ranged from 0.1 to 10 mg/kg, with rapid onset and a half-life of about one hour. Sixteen structurally distinct analogues were identified with potentially improved safety and pharmacokinetic profiles. Findings support further development of analogues to overcome the side effect profile.