Wissenschaftliche Forschung

Zusammenfassung

This integrative review presents classic psychedelics (serotonin 2A receptor agonists such as LSD, psilocybin, and mescaline) research findings on epidemiology, mechanisms, acute subjective effects, therapeutic efficacy, and potential risks. Data were critically evaluated in terms of study design, methods, and impact. Classic psychedelics are not considered drugs of dependence. They present low physiological risk, although cardiovascular effects in hypertensive or cardiac patients should be researched further. Epidemiologic studies associate classic psychedelic use with lower psychological distress, suicidality, and alcohol and drug use disorders. Preliminary data suggest safety and potential efficacy for mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders. The subjective effects of mystical experience are implicated in therapeutic efficacy. However, more research with diverse populations is needed to examine therapeutic mechanisms, particularly how individual differences (demographics, genetics, personality) and session variables (context, expectations, rapport) might moderate outcomes, safety issues, and therapeutic methods.