Can psychedelics improve well-being in autism?
Science (New York, N.Y.) December 20, 2024 DOI: 10.1126/science.adv4102 via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractTwo new clinical trials examined the effects of psychedelic-assisted therapy in autistic adults with social anxiety. One trial found that the therapy significantly reduced social anxiety symptoms compared to a placebo, with effects lasting at least six months. The other trial reported no significant difference between the active treatment and placebo groups, though both groups showed improvement. The studies highlight both potential benefits and risks for this understudied population, including the need for careful monitoring of adverse effects.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Randomized controlled trial Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Autistic adults with social anxiety |
| Topics | Psychedelic-assisted therapy |
| Keywords | Autism treatment Mental health research Social anxiety Clinical trials |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key finding | One trial found significant reduction in social anxiety with psychedelic therapy, while another found no significant difference between treatment and placebo groups. |
Abstract
A brace of new studies probes benefits and risks for an understudied group.