Psychedelic Therapeutics for Adolescents: Ethics, Safety, Opportunities, and Equipoise.
Paul E Croarkin, Isabella Sutherland, Ming-Fen Ho
Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry December 19, 2024 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2024.12.003 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractA commentary responds to an earlier article advocating for clinical trials of psychedelic-assisted therapy in adolescents aged 16 to 17. The authors agree that rigorous studies of compounds like psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA in this age group are warranted, as adolescents are likely already using these substances therapeutically. They offer additional considerations to foster further dialogue and advocacy in the field.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Commentary Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Psychedelic-assisted therapy |
| Keywords | Adolescent medicine Psychiatric treatment Youth mental health |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key finding | Argues that there is a compelling rationale for rigorous studies of psychedelic-assisted therapy in adolescents aged 16 to 17 years. |
Abstract
We read with great interest the commentary by Jeffrey et al. entitled "Clinical Research Trials of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in Adolescents Aged 16 to 17 Years: Rationale Balanced With Caution."1 We appreciate the efforts of the authors, the scholarship of this commentary, and the advocacy for research initiatives with psychedelic therapeutics such as psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine. We agree that there is a compelling rationale for timely, rigorous studies with adolescents as it is likely that these compounds have been and will be used in adolescents with therapeutic intent. We are writing to catalyze further collegial dialogue and advocacy in our field. We do have some considerations for the authors.