Effects of ayahuasca and its alkaloids on substance use disorders: an updated (2016-2020) systematic review of preclinical and human studies.
European archives of psychiatry and clinical neuroscience June 1, 2022 Lucas Silva Rodrigues, Giordano Novak Rossi, Juliana Mendes Rocha et al. 48 citations
Ayahuasca and its alkaloids show therapeutic potential for substance use disorders, according to an updated systematic review of nine studies (four preclinical, five observational) published between 2016 and 2020. Preclinical rodent studies found reductions in amphetamine self-administration, anxiety, and conditioned place preference for alcohol and methylphenidate. Observational studies in healthy ritual ayahuasca users and patients with substance use disorders reported decreased drug use, anxiety, and depression, along with improved quality of life and well-being. The review replicates earlier findings but notes limited translation from animal studies, inability to infer causality from observational designs, and lack of dose standardization. Randomized controlled trials are needed.