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Psychedelics: From Cave Art to 21st-Century Medicine for Addiction

Summary

This comprehensive review examines how psychedelic substances, from magic mushrooms to LSD, are being studied as treatments for addiction. After decades of restriction, researchers are rediscovering what indigenous cultures have known for thousands of years: these substances can help people overcome alcohol, drug, and tobacco addiction. The research shows promising results, particularly when combined with therapy, with abstinence rates significantly higher than traditional treatments.

Background

Psychedelic substance use dates back to 8,500 BCE in ritualistic and ceremonial settings. After decades of prohibition following the War on Drugs, psychedelics have re-emerged in therapeutic research settings, particularly for addiction treatment. This represents a return to mid-20th century research that showed promise before restrictions were imposed.

Objective

To review research over the past 40 years on the use of classic psychedelics (psilocybin, LSD, DMT, mescaline) and atypical psychedelics (ketamine, ibogaine, 5-MeO-DMT, MDMA) for the treatment of addiction. The review examines evidence from controlled research environments and ceremonial settings to identify therapeutic mechanisms.

Results

Classic psychedelics show significant benefits for alcohol, tobacco, and opioid addiction with abstinence rates ranging from 33-80% at follow-up. Atypical psychedelics, particularly ketamine and ibogaine, demonstrate effectiveness for alcohol, opioid, and cocaine dependence. Ceremonial use of peyote and ayahuasca shows reduced addiction severity and improved outcomes.

Conclusion

Both classic and atypical psychedelics show promise as therapeutic alternatives for addiction treatment through improvement of psychological and physiological symptoms of dependence. A comprehensive understanding of ancient and present-day knowledge of psychedelic therapeutic potential offers hope for patients who have failed conventional treatment methods.
  • Published in:European Addiction Research,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: PMID: 39321788, DOI: 10.1159/000540062
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