Magic mushrooms and ecstasy have been classified as dangerous drugs by most government agencies worldwide. However, recent studies revealed that such hallucinogenic drugs may also be an ingredient for a potential treatment of certain mental disorders.
As a testament to its promising impact towards mental health, the FDA gave initial approval for a clinical trial of MDMA or ecstasy. The trial under the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies aims to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, according to WebMD.
Apart from the aforementioned clinical trial, it has also been reported that other hallucinogenic drugs are also being explored for its positive impact. Some studies are highly focused towards cancer patients who had symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Moreover, the same medical site also highlighted other significant impacts of hallucinogens towards patients suffering from traumatic experience. Accordingly, patients tend to be less afraid, for patients were observed to be more open when talking or dealing with the overall treatment process.
Admittedly, the research behind the positive effects of hallucinogens is still on its infancy stage. Experts are still trying to figure out important aspects of the research, including its lasting effect towards depression, anxiety, addiction, and overall brain function.
Side effects are still highly considered and checked by researchers. Long-term and short-term effects are being scrutinized, especially that hallucinogens have been known for its disruptive effect towards brain function, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Based on the revised report of the agency, short-term effects would likely include increased heart rate, intensified feelings & sensory experiences, increased blood pressure, breathing rate, or body temperature, psychosis and even paranoia.
The same website also added that its long-term effects involves speech problems, memory loss, weight loss, anxiety & depression, and suicidal thoughts. Thus, necessitating caution and thorough research concerning hallucinogens' potential medical use.
To date, there is still no government-approved medication to treat addiction to hallucinogens. That is why researchers are taking their time in introducing such drug as part of mental health treatment.
Watch here below other related impact of hallucinogenic drugs: