Females in Psychedelic Research: A Perspective for Advancing Research and Practice.
Zahira Ziva Cohen, Grace Blest‐hopley
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science July 11, 2025 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.5c00255 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Estrogen Menstrual cycle Progesterone Hormonal state Brain chemistry Drug effects Therapeutic benefits Intensity Receptor expression Modulation Individualized care Safer More effective Psychedelic therapies Hormones Modulate How psychedelics work Mindset Tracking hormonal changes Data accuracy Women |
| Citations | 9 |
| Key points | Argues that female hormonal variability across the menstrual and life cycles may play a pivotal role in psychedelic experiences and that incorporating menstrual phase tracking and hormonal assays can improve research and clinical practice. |
Abstract
The influence of ovarian hormone fluctuations on neurochemistry, cognition, and psychological responses remains insufficiently examined in current psychedelic research and clinical protocols. Traditional practices and case studies underscore the importance of accounting for these factors in investigations of psychedelic effects. This opinion paper explores the critical intersections between female hormones and psychedelic experiences, informing improved research and practice. Estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4), the primary ovarian hormones, modulate neurotransmitter systems central to psychedelic pharmacology, including serotonin (5-HT), dopamine, GABA, and glutamate. These hormonal interactions affect interhemispheric communication, synaptic plasticity, mood, cognition, and behavior. Fluctuations across the menstrual cycle influence 5-HT2A receptor expression and functional connectivity, potentially modulating both the subjective intensity and therapeutic efficacy of psychedelics. Additionally, oscillations in female hormones across the menstrual and life cycles affect mindset, a significant factor in safe and effective psychedelic use. These findings suggest that female hormonal variability may play a pivotal role in psychedelic experiences. Incorporating menstrual phase tracking and hormonal assays in both clinical trials and observational studies can reduce data variability, support individualized care, and improve informed consent practices. This would improve data integrity and ensure that women are fully informed about the potential influence of their hormonal state on their psychedelic experience, supporting truly informed consent. This paper emphasizes the need for an improved understanding of the complex interplay between female-specific biology and psychedelic pharmacodynamics to advance safe, ethical, and effective psychedelic research and therapies for women.