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Drug–drug interactions involving classic psychedelics: A systematic review

Summary

This review examined how psychedelic drugs like LSD and psilocybin interact with other medications people might be taking. Researchers found that certain psychiatric medications like antipsychotics can block the effects of psychedelics, while other drugs may enhance them. The study highlights the importance of understanding these interactions for safe therapeutic use of psychedelics in clinical settings.

Background

Classic psychedelics including LSD, psilocybin, mescaline, DMT and 5-MeO-DMT are potent psychoactive substances with emerging therapeutic potential. However, understanding of potential drug-drug interactions when these substances are combined with other medications remains limited.

Objective

This systematic review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of current research on drug-drug interactions between classic psychedelics and other drugs in humans, examining both physiological and psychological outcomes.

Results

52 studies from 36 reports were identified including 32 on LSD, 10 on psilocybin, 4 on mescaline, 3 on DMT, 2 on 5-MeO-DMT, and 1 on ayahuasca. Findings revealed various effects including attenuated and potentiated drug effects, with few serious adverse events reported except in case reports.

Conclusion

Potent 5-HT2A receptor antagonists diminish psychedelic effects, while certain other drugs show potentiating or mixed interactions. The review identifies molecular pathways underlying observed interactions and highlights areas requiring future research for safe clinical use of psychedelics.
  • Published in:Journal of Psychopharmacology,
  • Study Type:Systematic Review,
  • Source: PMID: 37982394, DOI: 10.1177/02698811231211219
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