Effects of ayahuasca in preclinical studies with animals: a systematic review
Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research September 2, 2025 A. Walsh-Monteiro, S. Morato, F.a.r. Uribe et al.
Ayahuasca, a beverage containing N,N-dimethyltryptamine and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, produces significant changes in motor and cognitive behavior in animal models, particularly through the serotonergic system. These changes resemble negative symptoms seen in schizophrenia and depression. The review of 14 studies from 2012 to 2022 reveals diversity in animal models, developmental stages, and dosing regimens (acute and chronic). However, the authors highlight a scarcity of methodologically standardized preclinical research, which limits conclusive comparisons and underscores the need for further studies to assess potential toxic and neurochemical effects before therapeutic use can be safely evaluated.