<2> Psychedelic Medicine: Mechanisms, Evidence, and Translation to Practice
<3> Introduction
The use of psychedelic treatments has gained significant attention in the clinical community over the past 15 years, with psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) advancing to phase 3 trials for various psychiatric conditions. This state-of-the-art review aims to examine the evidence for these treatments and their proposed mechanisms of action, as well as identify key challenges in clinical translation.
<3> Mechanisms of Action
Psychedelic treatments combine limited drug administration with psychotherapy or psychological support, potentially working through various biological and psychological pathways. These include effects on neural circuitry, emotional processing, and psychological flexibility. However, the precise mechanisms are not completely understood.
<3> Evidence for Psychedelic Treatments
The strongest evidence supports psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression and MDMA for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Emerging data also suggest potential benefits in substance use disorders and psychological distress in life-threatening illness.
<3> Challenges in Clinical Translation
Although psychedelics are well-tolerated under controlled conditions, methodological limitations complicate interpretation of the evidence. These include functional unblinding,