Psychedelics: Safety and Efficacy.

Despite a recent surge in psychedelic research and institutional support, most studies lack scientific rigor and focus on safety and efficacy. Many published studies are poorly designed, and misleading information is common. The current Schedule I classification—indicating no medical value and high abuse potential—complicates research. This paper argues that personal and financial biases further undermine the field, and it calls attention to the neglected literature on safety, adverse effects, and the history of psychedelic use.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Psychedelic research has experienced a renaissance in recent years, with many researchers exploring the possible therapeutic effects of these drugs. Medical institutions, universities, pharmaceutical companies, and governmental institutions alike have been showing an increase in support of this research, as shown through the recent establishment of various psychedelic research facilities across the United States. However, the safety and efficacy of psychedelic usage are not the focus of the existing research. Additionally, many of the studies on psychedelic use that have already been published lack the necessary scientific rigor required for studies of such medical importance. The current paper will discuss the issue of misleading information as well as poorly designed studies and what implications these have on the rescheduling of psychedelic drugs that are currently categorized as Schedule I. The current Schedule I status of psychedelics means that they are considered to have no legitimate medical value as well as a high potential for abuse. Furthermore, the current paper aims to discuss psychedelics while drawing awareness to the lack of the literature surrounding the safety and efficacy of psychedelics for medical use. This paper will also discuss the history of psychedelic use and abuse, the adverse effects of psychedelic use, and the role that personal and financial bias has within the psychedelic research field.