Psychedelic and Entactogenic Drugs in the Treatment of Depression
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs January 1, 1994 Thomas J. Riedlinger, June Riedlinger 39 citations
A deficiency of serotonin in the central nervous system may underlie some forms of depression. Existing antidepressant treatments include serotonergic drugs, and psychedelic substances also affect serotonin systems, suggesting they could play a role in depression therapy. Past attempts using both indoleamine and phenylalkylamine psychedelics have shown encouraging results, warranting further research, especially on phenylisopropylamine compounds that are only peripherally psychedelic. These entactogens or empathogens cause less distortion of normal consciousness than classic psychedelics like LSD or mescaline, making them easier to integrate into psychotherapy. Their value would be at the start of therapy to reduce fear responses, improve communication, and accelerate the therapeutic alliance.