Hallucinogens: Risks, Benefits, and Modern Applications
Episode Overview
Hallucinogens interact with the body in unique ways and require careful dosing. Microdosing may offer mental health benefits similar to traditional antidepressants. Therapeutic support is crucial during psychedelic experiences to manage potential risks. Psychedelics have a long history of use in indigenous cultures for spiritual and healing purposes. Modern research is exploring psychedelics for treating substance use disorders, depression, and anxiety.
People can have really acute, challenging psychological experiences where they're having strong anxiety, paranoia, fear.
In this episode of The Curbsiders Addiction Medicine Podcast, Dr. Albert Garcia-Romeu from Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research joins the hosts to chat about hallucinogens. Dr. Garcia-Romeu shares his extensive knowledge on how different hallucinogens interact with the body, common dosing strategies, and the potential therapeutic benefits these substances may offer. You'll hear about the risks associated with hallucinogen use and get an update on the latest research in this fascinating field.
The conversation touches on microdosing, its potential mental health benefits, and the importance of therapeutic support during psychedelic experiences. Dr. Garcia-Romeu also highlights the historical use of psychedelics in indigenous cultures and discusses their modern applications in treating substance use disorders, depression, and anxiety. If you're curious about the future of psychedelics in medicine or just want to understand more about these intriguing substances, this episode is a must-listen.
Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion that bridges ancient practices with cutting-edge science.