The economics of psychedelic-assisted therapies: A research agenda
Elliot Marseille, Stefano Bertozzi, James G. Kahn
Frontiers in Psychiatry December 5, 2022 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1025726 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | MDMA Psilocybin Psychedelic-assisted therapy |
| Keywords | Cost-effectiveness Health economics Psychedelics Psychedelic treatments Hallucinogenic therapy Psychiatric advances Mental health treatments |
| Citations | 51 |
| Key findings | Research on the economic considerations of psychedelic therapies, including cost-effectiveness and pricing, is needed to ensure their widespread accessibility. |
Abstract
After a long hiatus, psychiatry is undergoing a resurgence of interest in psychedelic drugs as therapy for a wide range of mental health disorders Accumulating clinical evidence suggests substantial potential for psychedelics used in a therapeutic context, as treatment for, among other disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addictions to tobacco, opioids and alcohol. As soon as 2024, powerful new therapeutic modalities could become available for individuals with mental health problems refractory to traditional therapies. Yet research has lagged on economic considerations, such as costs and cost-effectiveness, the economic effects of widespread implementation, pricing, and economic appraisal's methodological considerations relevant to psychedelic therapies. These issues are critical if psychedelic therapies are to become widely accessible. We describe six types of economic analyses and their rationale for decisions and planning including the needs of health care payers. We also outline desirable features of this research, including scientific rigor, long horizons, equity, and a global view.