Adverse effects of psychedelics: From anecdotes and misinformation to systematic science.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite an increasing body of research highlighting their efficacy to treat a broad range of medical conditions, psychedelic drugs remain a controversial issue among the public and politicians, tainted by previous stigmatisation and perceptions of risk and danger.

Objective

This narrative review examines the evidence for potential harms of the classic psychedelics by separating anecdotes and misinformation from systematic research.

Methods

Taking a high-level perspective, we address both psychological and psychiatric risks, such as abuse liability and potential for dependence, as well as medical harms, including toxicity and overdose. We explore the evidence base for these adverse effects to elucidate which of these harms are based largely on anecdotes vers

SUBMITTER: Schlag AK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8905125 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature