Perspectives and preliminary experiences of psychedelics for the treatment of eating disorders: A systematic scoping review

May 24, 2024European eating disorders review : the journal of the Eating Disorders Association

Early experiences and views on using psychedelics to treat eating disorders

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Abstract

Of 1290 publications reviewed, 17 met full eligibility criteria for exploring psychedelics in the treatment of eating disorders.

Most participants reported a meaningful reduction in eating disorder symptoms when using psychedelics.
Many individuals had positive experiences and expressed openness to exploring psychedelics as a treatment option.
Concerns were noted regarding potential adverse effects of psychedelics.
The presence of psychological support may enhance the safety and effectiveness of psychedelic treatments.
Preliminary findings suggest that psychedelics could be a viable treatment option for eating disorder symptoms, but further research is needed.

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OBJECTIVE: Research regarding the therapeutic application of psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in the treatment of eating disorders (EDs) has begun to emerge. This systematic scoping review aimed to map and synthesise the existing evidence regarding the participant reported efficacy and perspectives concerning psychedelics in the treatment of EDs, and to identify significant research gaps.

METHOD: A systematic search was undertaken across several databases in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines.

RESULTS: 1290 publications were identified, 1135 after duplicates removed, with 17 meeting full-eligibility criteria. Overall, findings suggested that most participants reported experiencing a meaningful reduction in their ED symptoms and having positive experiences or an openness to explore psychedelics as a treatment for ED symptoms, although some noted concerns of adverse effects and the importance of having psychological support to increase safety and efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS: While preliminary research suggests psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy may be a viable treatment option for ED symptoms, further research with more robust research designs is required to increase confidence in its efficacy, generalisability, and safety as a therapeutic medium.

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Perspectives and preliminary experiences of psychedelics for the treatment of eating disorders: A systematic scoping review

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