Psicodélicos e plasticidade cerebral no tratamento do transtorno de estresse pós-traumático
Brazilian Journal of Implantology and Health Sciences August 14, 2025 A. Silva, Érika Barros Teixeira da Cruz, Samuel Cândido Freres et al.
Psychedelics such as MDMA and psilocybin may help treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by promoting neuroplasticity and facilitating the reconsolidation of traumatic memories. MDMA reduces amygdala response and increases feelings of safety during psychotherapy, allowing patients to reprocess traumatic memories. Psilocybin can loosen rigid thought patterns, supporting emotional reframing. These substances modulate serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, enhancing neural connectivity and reorganization of memory and emotion circuits. Safety requires strict protocols, careful screening, and professional supervision due to risks like acute anxiety and cardiovascular instability. When used in controlled, therapy-integrated settings, psychedelics represent a promising avenue for PTSD treatment, though clinical adoption depends on regulation, training, and further long-term efficacy studies.