A bibliometric analysis of research on psychedelics for depression treatment.
Hao Hua, Xinghuo Fu, Wenli Wang, Sen Wang, Di Wang, Zifeng Wu, Qi Zhang, Teng He, Chun Yang
Heliyon September 15, 2024 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e36886 via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractA bibliometric analysis of 710 publications from 2004 to October 2023 reveals growing research interest in psychedelics as treatments for depression. The analysis maps annual publication trends, authorship, countries, institutions, journals, and keywords to visualize emerging frontiers and influential factors. The authors assert that regulation of psychedelic drugs is necessary but should not impede scientific progress.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Bibliometric analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 710 |
| Population | Publications on psychedelic drugs for depression |
| Duration | 2004 to October 2023 |
| Topics | Depression |
| Keywords | Bibliometrics Psychedelics Research hotspot Visualized analysis |
| Citations | 2 |
| Key finding | The analysis visualizes trends, frontiers, and collaborations in psychedelic depression research, and the authors argue regulation should not hinder scientific progress. |
Abstract
Psychedelics, as a class of potent psychoactive substances, significantly alter sensory perception and mood, thereby profoundly impacting cognition. Increasing evidence indicates that psychedelics can facilitate individual social function and rapidly and sustainably improve symptoms of moderate and severe depression. The growing interest in psychedelics as potential treatments for depression has led to a substantial increase in related publications; however, the overall quantity and quality of these works remain unclear. To address this issue, we conducted a bibliometric analysis of literature on psychedelic drugs for depression published between 2004 and October 2023. Our study meticulously collected 710 publications, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of bibliographic elements such as annual publication trends, authorship, country of origin, institutional affiliations, journals, and keywords. By visualizing trends, emerging frontiers, popular topics, author collaborations, and influential factors in the field of psychedelics for depression, we have enhanced our understanding of advancements in this area. On this basis, we assert that the regulation of psychedelic drugs is necessary, but it should not hinder the scientific research progress.