Exploring serotonergic psychedelics as a treatment for personality disorders.
Brennan M. Carrithers, Daniel E. Roberts, Brandon M Weiss, Jacob D King, Robin Carhart-Harris, Alexandra R. Gordon, Broc A. Pagni, Miltiadis Moreau, Stephen Ross, Richard J. Zeifman
Neuropharmacology July 1, 2025 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2025.110413 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Individuals with personality disorders |
| Topics | Serotonin |
| Keywords | Psychedelic drugs Character disorders Magic mushroom therapy Personality disorders Personality traits Psilocybin-assisted therapy Psychopharmacology Psychotherapy Psychedelics hallucinogens Entheogens |
| Citations | 4 |
| Key findings | Psychedelic therapy may address core features of personality disorders through shared mechanisms of personality modulation, but rigorous research is lacking. |
Abstract
Both psychotherapeutic interventions and pharmacological agents have demonstrated limited efficacy in the treatment of personality disorders (PDs). Emerging evidence suggests that psychedelic therapy, already showing promise in treating various psychiatric conditions commonly comorbid with PDs, may exert therapeutic effects by promoting adaptive changes in personality. Thus, psychedelic therapy could hold potential for addressing core features of PDs through shared mechanisms of personality modulation. Although historical literature and observational studies suggest the potential clinical utility of psychedelics in treating PDs, rigorous research is lacking, and individuals with PDs are often excluded from modern psychedelic therapy trials. In the present review, we first discuss research on the effects of psychedelics in individuals with a PD through the conventional lens of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.; DSM-5-TR) categorical model. Next, using the dimensional DSM Alternative Model of Personality Disorders (DSM-AMPD) as a framework, we examine how psychedelics may affect self-functioning, interpersonal functioning, and pathological personality traits. We conclude by discussing the clinical relevance of psychedelic therapy as a treatment for personality pathology, including safety considerations, gaps and limitations, and recommendations for approaching psychedelic therapy within these more complex clinical populations.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on serotonin, most cited first.
Citations in the library
Cited by 2
- Psilocybin as a Transdiagnostic Treatment for Eating Disorders and Comorbid Psychopathology: Implications for Clinical Nosology and Research Directions International Journal of Eating Disorders July 2, 2026
- Ayahuasca, DMT, and Mental Health: A Current Review of Scientific Studies Current Addiction Reports February 21, 2026
Cites 132
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and 127 more in the library