Psychedelic drugs have won over some surprising converts. Scientists say they can treat a range of psychological ailments. Tech titans swear by them. Hollywood stars praise microdosing. Rick Perry — a onetime Texas governor and Trump official — is now an unlikely champion.
In a recent newsletter, we asked for your questions about psychedelic drugs. You wondered about ailments they can treat, the dangers of using them and where you can get some. Today, The Times’s expert beat reporters answer. (Got a question for us? Submit it here.)
Science and health
Andrew Jacobs, who covers psychedelic medicine for the Science desk, answers these questions.
I’ve read about so many compounds — psilocybin, LSD, ayahuasca, ketamine, MDMA, ibogaine. Which ones are used in psychedelic therapy, and why? Laura Wilcox, Arlington, Mass.
Many mind-altering drugs have shown promise for conditions like depression, anorexia and post-traumatic stress disorder. Some, like the anesthetic ketamine, are not considered classic psychedelics but are often lumped together with other drugs that shape perceptions of reality. Here’s a quick primer:
Psilocybin, LSD and ayahuasca are classic psychedelics, or serotonergic hallucinogens, because they act via serotonin receptors to produce vivid perceptual changes and mystical-type experiences.
MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy or Molly, is an empathogen — a drug that fosters feelings of empathy, openness and connection to others. It increases the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine.
Ibogaine, which induces a dreamlike state, is harder to classify and is best used under strict supervision. It has been associated with fatal heart arrhythmias.
Are psychedelics a possible cure for dementia or cognitive decline? Ginger Gillison Schlather, Washington, D.C.
The research is in its infancy. Investigators are especially interested in the drugs’ effects on neuroplasticity, mood and neuroinflammation — a key driver of Alzheimer’s disease. One study is looking at whether psilocybin can reduce depression and improve the quality of life for people with early-stage Alzheimer’s.
What can these drugs treat? Do they have a different effect on people with mental health disorders? Vee Crichton-Hill, St. Paul, Minn.