A-118 Psychedelic Interventions for Neuropsychological Conditions

Psychedelic-assisted therapies, including ketamine, MDMA, and psilocybin, show promise for treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders. This systematic review identified new potential applications for these therapies in neuropsychological conditions such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, autism spectrum disorder, and ADHD, while also noting contraindications when psychological disorders co-occur with neuropsychological conditions. The findings are synthesized to provide actionable clinical recommendations for practitioners.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Objective: Psychedelic-assisted therapies are emerging as safe and effective treatments for some psychological conditions including depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorders. As ketamine therapy is already available in general medicine and 3,4 Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and psilocybin are in late-stage clinical trials, neuropsychologists should be aware of these therapy options. The goal of this study was to identify new targets for psychedelic intervention and to evaluate the applicability and contraindications of psychedelic therapies in those with neuropsychological conditions. Data Selection: A systematic literature search was performed using 128 topic keywords covering topics related to psychedelic pharmacology, risk, neuroscience, neuropsychology, psychological change, and clinical applications. These keywords were searched in combination with names of eight major psychedelics for a total of 1024 separate Google Scholar searches. This yielded 4319 papers with over eight hundred included based on translational relevance. Data Synthesis: Data were synthesized using a translational approach, with findings building from basic research to clinical application. Literature was summarized into tables comparing sample, technique, statistical confidence, and effect size (computed when not available). Critical analysis was performed to evaluate the literature and generate new clinical insights. Conclusion: Emerging opportunities for psychedelic therapies to treat neuropsychological conditions, including traumatic brain injury, cerebrovascular accident, autism spectrum disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder were identified. Some contraindications were also found to psychedelic treatment of psychological disorders that co-occur with neuropsychological conditions. These findings are contextualized with the current state of psychedelic medicine to support practitioners in providing actionable clinical recommendations.