The Mechanisms and Effects of Psychedelics
August 30, 2024 DOI: 10.64239/pi-vl8202 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review |
|---|---|
| Key findings | Psychedelics are medically safe for most, but their 5-HT2B agonist activity presents a theoretical risk of cardiac valvulopathy with microdosing. |
Abstract
Psychedelics generally elicit a profound change in consciousness, often with ego dissolution, mystical experiences, and enriched sensory perception, but are medically safe for most. Tachyphylaxis occurs after repeated psychedelic administration, preventing biological dependence. MDMA may have some abuse potential and less tachyphylaxis compared to LSD/psilocybin. Psychedelics have 5-HT2B agonist activity associated with cardiac valvulopathy, presenting a theoretical risk with microdosing.