This article discusses the existing research looking at the potential of MDMA, ketamine, and psilocybin to help people with treatment-resistant mental health conditions.  Scientists are uncovering the therapeutic potential of psychedelics to treat a variety of mental health conditions.

Psilocybin: Research has indicated rapid-acting and enduring antidepressant effects in combination with psychological support. Data also suggest potential efficacy for substance use disorders (alcohol use disorder and nicotine addiction), existential distress, and headache disorders. Still Schedule I in the United States.

MDMA: Studies suggest it can be effective for posttraumatic stress disorder in combination with talk therapy. Other areas are under investigation (alcohol use disorder, couples therapy, existential distress). Still Schedule I in the United States.

Ketamine: Research has indicated rapid-acting antidepressant effects and suggests potential for treating substance use disorders in combination with therapy. Legally available in the United States under medical supervision.

LSD: Historical evidence indicates therapeutic potential for substance use disorders. Recently granted FDA “breakthrough therapy” designation as a potential treatment for anxiety. Still Schedule I in the United States.

Also discussed are the legality issues and the importance of the inclusion of therapy with the drugs.

“Psychologists have played a critical role in clinical studies on psychedelics through their work as clinicians who prepare participants for the “trip,” or the experience with the drug, which often lasts many hours, and “integration,” or incorporating the key insights gained during the experience into their lives in the weeks and months after the trip. To equip licensed professionals to responsibly incorporate psychedelic medicine into the clinical setting, psychologists are developing education programs focused on the latest research and evidence-based practices. For now, these clinical settings are restricted to research studies, but that could change soon if the FDA approves MDMA-assisted therapy.”