Efficacy of Psychoactive Drugs for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review of MDMA, Ketamine, LSD and Psilocybin

Sep 15, 2020Journal of psychoactive drugs

Effectiveness of MDMA, Ketamine, LSD, and Psilocybin for Treating Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

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Abstract

A total of 2,959 records were identified, with nine trials meeting the inclusion criteria for evaluating MDMA and ketamine in PTSD treatment.

Observational studies and randomized trials assessed the effects of MDMA, ketamine, LSD, and psilocybin on PTSD symptoms.
Five trials investigated ketamine, while four focused on MDMA.
Evidence for ketamine as a standalone treatment for PTSD with comorbid depression was ranked 'very low'.
Ketamine combined with psychotherapy was rated as having 'low' evidence for efficacy in treating PTSD.
MDMA used in combination with psychotherapy was associated with 'moderate' evidence for effectiveness in PTSD treatment.

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The aim of this systematic review was to examine the efficacy of MDMA, ketamine, LSD, and psilocybin for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A search of four databases for English language, peer-reviewed literature published from inception to 18th October 2019 yielded 2,959 records, 34 of which were screened on full-text. Observational studies and RCTs which tested the efficacy of MDMA, ketamine, LSD, or psilocybin for reducing PTSD symptoms in adults, and reported changes to PTSD diagnosis or symptomatology, were included. Nine trials (five ketamine and four MDMA) met inclusion criteria. Trials were rated on a quality and bias checklist and GRADE was used to rank the evidence. The evidence for ketamine as a stand-alone treatment for comorbid PTSD and depression was ranked "very low", and the evidence for ketamine in combination with psychotherapy as a PTSD treatment was ranked "low". The evidence for MDMA in combination with psychotherapy as a PTSD treatment was ranked "moderate".

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Efficacy of Psychoactive Drugs for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review of MDMA, Ketamine, LSD and Psilocybin

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