Is there a place for psychedelics in sports practice?
Isabel Werle, Marina A. M. Portes, Leandro J Bertoglio
Acta Neuropsychiatrica 2025 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2025.13 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Anxiety LSD MDMA Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Athletes Hallucinogen Psychological intervention Nonsteroidal |
| Citations | 2 |
| Key findings | The effects of psychedelic substances on athletic performance remain largely unknown, and research on their impact on physical and physiological measures is scarce. |
Abstract
Abstract Growing evidence suggests that psychedelic-assisted therapies can alleviate depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, and substance use disorder, offering relatively safe profiles, enhanced efficacy, and lasting effects after a few applications. Athletes often experience high levels of stress and pressure, making them susceptible to these psychiatric conditions. However, the effects of psychedelic substances on athletic performance remain largely unknown. Before potential acceptance, evaluating their impact on physical and physiological measures beyond mental health outcomes is crucial. Here, we aim to explore this topic and highlight research directions to advance our understanding. Preclinical studies suggest that psilocybin/psilocin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), N , N -dimethyltryptamine (DMT), and ayahuasca possess anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive properties. Studies investigating the effects of classical psychedelics or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) on factors such as muscle strength, motor coordination, locomotion, endurance, fluid and electrolyte balance, hormonal regulation, and metabolism are still scarce. While adhering to regulatory frameworks, further research in animal models, athletes, and non-athletes is needed to address these gaps, compare psychedelics with commonly used psychoactive drugs, and explore the potential prophylactic and regenerative benefits of specific interventions.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on MDMA for anxiety, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical applications of hallucinogens: A review. | 2016 | Review | |
| MDMA-assisted therapy: A new treatment model for social anxiety in autistic adults. Individuals who have received MDMA for research purposes | 2016 | Review | n = 1,133 |
| Long-Term Neuropsychiatric Consequences of "Ecstasy" (MDMA): A Review Chronic recreational users of ecstasy (MDMA), including adolescents | 2002 | Review | |
| A review of emerging therapeutic potential of psychedelic drugs in the treatment of psychiatric illnesses | 2020 | Review | |
| Top Ten Tips Palliative Care Clinicians Should Know About Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in the Context of Serious Illness. Palliative care clinicians and patients | 2022 | Review |