Assessing the effects of methodological differences on outcomes in the use of psychedelics in the treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal of Psychopharmacology September 14, 2021 Robert F Leger, Ellen M. Unterwald 54 citations
Classical psychedelics such as psilocybin, ayahuasca, and LSD appear to be effective and relatively safe for rapidly and enduringly improving anxiety and depression. A meta-analysis of nine clinical trials found large positive effects on anxiety (Cohen's d = 1.26) and depression (Cohen's d = 1.38) overall, with benefits persisting beyond one week. No serious adverse drug reactions were reported. No significant differences in effectiveness emerged between the three psychedelic agents, but trials that used multiple dosing sessions showed significantly better outcomes than those using a single session.