The Potential of Psychedelics in the Treatment of Eating Disorders

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.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Psychedelic-assisted therapies are emerging as novel treatments of interest for a range of mental health issues, including eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa. Psychedelics, such as LSD and psilocybin, may exert biological and psychological effects pertinent to the pathophysiology of eating disorders. Initial clinical trials are underway to confirm the safety and therapeutic potential of these agents for eating disorder treatment. Although definitive evidence is still pending, preliminary studies hint that psychedelic-assisted therapies could enhance the effectiveness of existing evidence-based treatments for these challenging conditions. The need for high-quality, robust research in this area remains, given that efficacy is yet to be conclusively established. Additionally, caution is warranted in the rush to legalize and market the use of psychedelics as a treatment for these serious disorders.