Psychedelics, in particular LSD and psilocybin, have been investigated as potential treatments for depressive symptoms. There is evidence for short-, medium-, and long-term usefulness in both micro-dosing and regular studies. In addition to the potential cognitive stimulation (LSD) or emotional well-being effects (psilocybin), these treatments are generally well-tolerated in clinical and general populations. In addition, MDMA has received breakthrough treatment status with the FDA for the treatment of PTSD.

Potential clinical uses for psychedelics

Serotonergic psychedelics have been shown to increase dendritic arborization, spinogenesis, and synaptogenesis, particularly in the prefrontal cortex. This seems to operate in a similar neural pathway to BDNF (TrkB and mTOR receptors), and it is mediated by the serotonin 2A receptors. This is one potential antidepressant  mechanism of psychedelic drugs.

Psychedelics and Neuroplasticity

Psilocybin is a 5HT-2A (serotonin 2A) receptor agonist that is a naturally-occurring psychedelic compound. It is derived from over 200 species of fungi, many from the genus Psilocybe. A purified bioactive compound derived from medicinal mushrooms.

Psilocybin

A meta-analysis of randomized trials investigating the use of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for alcohol use disorder (AUD) demonstrated substantial and statistically significant improvements in LSD's effectiveness compared to control conditions. Furthermore, clinical studies indicate promising anti-addiction effects of LSD and related classic psychedelics in the treatment of alcohol and other substance use disorders.

Reduction in Alcohol Use Disorder and consumption after psychedelic use

Psychedelics (or hallucinogens) are a class of psychoactive substances (Psychoplastogens) that produce changes in perception, mood, and cognitive processes, such as altering thinking, sense of time, and emotions. They can also cause a person to see or hear things that do not exist or are distorted. They can be naturally occurring or synthetic. Examples include:
- Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)
- Dimethyltryptamine (DMT)
- 3-[2-(Dimethylamino)ethyl]-1H-indol-4-yl dihydrogen phosphate (Psilocybin)
- Mescaline
- Peyote


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Psychoplastogens class of compounds that take effect on neural plasticity in key circuits involved in brain health. Psychoplastogens include psychadelics, and produce a quantifiable change in plasticity within a short time frame (>72 h) post administration.

Psychoplastogens 

https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/psychedelics/

Psychedelic Drugs

Psychoplastogens have a range of therapeutic potential in treating neuropsychiatric diseases including anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD, and addiction. The 5-HT receptor group also has an important role in the gut-brain axis and is linked to the pathophysiology of IBS via dysregulated serotonin signaling.

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