Psychedelics as pharmacotherapeutics for substance use disorders: a scoping review on clinical trials and perspectives on underlying neurobiology
medRxiv April 6, 2025 Lucas M Wittenkeller, Gary A. Gudelsky, John T. Winhusen et al. 3 citations preprint
Psychedelics are being tested as treatments for substance use disorders, building on their promise for depression. A scoping review of clinical trials and publications identifies a potential new mechanism: restoring dopamine homeostasis. This process may reduce drug-seeking behavior and support abstinence, complementing previously known effects. The neurobiological basis of psychedelics' therapeutic action remains incompletely understood, but this dopamine-related pathway offers a novel target for treating addiction.