Effects of ayahuasca on fear and anxiety: cross-talk between 5HT1A and 5HT2A receptors
Lorena Terene Lopes Guerra, Rafael G. Dos Santos, Jaime E. C. Hallak
Psychedelics December 10, 2024 DOI: 10.61373/pp024i.0037 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Anxiety Ayahuasca Serotonin |
| Keywords | Mood Hallucinogen 5-HT Receptor Clinical psychology |
| Citations | 3 |
| Key findings | Ayahuasca modulates neural substrates relevant for emotional processing, especially in serotonergic receptor-rich regions, and has specific effects on fear-related memories. |
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a hallucinogenic substance currently being investigated for the treatment of mood, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. Evidence from animal and human studies suggest that the effects of ayahuasca involve modulation of neural substrates relevant for emotional processing, especially in regions rich in serotonergic receptors. Moreover, preclinical studies also show that ayahuasca has specific effects on fear-related memories. The serotonergic system has been classically associated to anxiety and fear responses, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors being first-class medication to treat mood, anxiety, and stress-related disorders. Here we review currently available data regarding ayahuasca (and its main components) behavioral and functional effects on anxiety and fear-related responses through its modulation of serotoninergic signaling.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on ayahuasca for anxiety, most cited first.
Citations in the library
Cited by 3
- Clinical pharmacology of ayahuasca: potential applications and future considerations Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology October 3, 2025
- Psychedelics: Historical Context, Emerging Science, and Future Clinical Frontiers Journal of Mental Health Disorders April 18, 2026
- Ayahuasca revisited. Case studies & observations June 9, 2025
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and 47 more in the library