Psychedelics, including psilocybin, LSD, DMT/ayahuasca, MDMA, and ketamine, are being investigated as treatments for depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders, often within psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Although generally well-tolerated, these substances have been linked to various adverse effects. The article reviews the safety profiles of both classical and nonclassical psychedelics, noting that ketamine is already used for depression and FDA approval is anticipated for other psychedelics.
A 65-year-old man with a long history of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, and social phobia, whose personality is high in neuroticism, had been treated for decades with psychotherapy and various antidepressants, finding bupropion most helpful. After being diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer and given six months to live, he quickly developed severe depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts despite continuing bupropion. His psychiatrist referred him to a trial of psilocybin for anxiety and depression in terminally ill patients. Recent research suggests psychedelic agents might help treat anxiety, depression, and other disorders.
A letter comments on a review article about the safety of psychedelics for treating psychiatric disorders, noting that psilocybin has been decriminalized in some areas and legalized for therapeutic use in states like Oregon. The letter does not present new findings or data but offers a remark on the existing publication.