Exploring psychedelic-assisted therapy in the treatment of functional seizures: A review of underlying mechanisms and associated brain networks.
Evan Cole Lewis, Alexandria Jaeger, Manesh Girn, Egiroh Omene, Madeline Brendle, Elena Argento
J Psychopharmacol April 23, 2024 DOI: 10.1177/02698811241248395 via PubMed Central
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThis review examines how psychedelic-assisted therapy might help treat functional seizures, a type of functional neurological disorder. The authors explore potential underlying mechanisms, focusing on how psychedelics could affect brain networks involved in emotion, self-awareness, and body perception that are disrupted in functional seizures. They suggest that psychedelics may help by promoting neuroplasticity and altering connectivity in key brain regions, potentially allowing patients to process traumatic memories and reduce seizure frequency. The review indicates that while preliminary evidence is promising, more research is needed to establish safety and efficacy.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Psychedelic-assisted therapy |
| Keywords | Functional neurological disorders Mental health treatment Alternative medicine Neuroscience |
| Citations | 6 |
| Key finding | Psychedelic-assisted therapy may help treat functional seizures by altering brain networks involved in emotion and self-awareness, though more research is needed. |
Abstract
Exploring psychedelic-assisted therapy in the treatment of functional seizures: A review of underlying mechanisms and associated brain networks.