The Potential of Psychedelics in the Treatment of Eating Disorders
The Handbook of the Neurobiology of Eating Disorders October 1, 2025 Natalie Gukasyan, Samantha Hilbert, Angela S Guarda
Psychedelic-assisted therapies, using substances like LSD and psilocybin, are being explored as potential treatments for eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa. These psychedelics may influence biological and psychological processes relevant to the disorders' underlying causes. Early clinical trials are investigating safety and therapeutic potential, but definitive evidence is still lacking. Preliminary studies suggest these therapies could improve the effectiveness of existing treatments, though high-quality research is needed to confirm efficacy. Caution is advised against premature legalization and marketing of psychedelics for these serious conditions.