Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder in brazil: a critical review

Objective: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a pervasive but often overlooked public health issue in Brazil, a country characterized by deep social inequalities that perpetuate high exposure to traumatic events. Despite its prevalence, PTSD remains vastly underdiagnosed. Even when identified, current treatment modalities - both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic - frequently fail to provide complete remission, leading to the chronicity of the disorder and imposing significant individual, social, and economic burdens. This study aims to compile existing research on PTSD within the Brazilian context, assess the limitations of current treatment strategies, and explore the potential of psychedelic- assisted therapies, particularly 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), as a viable alternative.

Method: As a literature review, special attention is given to the challenges of integrating these emerging therapies in the Brazilian context. Addressing the substantial gaps in diagnosis is a key step toward improving outcomes.

Results: Early evidence suggests that MDMA-assisted psychotherapy may significantly reduce PTSD symptoms below the diagnostic threshold, offering a promising avenue for future treatment.

Conclusion: Pending further research on its safety profile, it could be applicable within Brazil’s public healthcare system (SUS).