Learn About Psychedelic Research and Medicine

Welcome to your guide on psychedelic science! Here you'll find clear, evidence-based information about these fascinating substances: their history, how they work, and why researchers are so excited about their therapeutic potential.

What Are Psychedelics?

Psychedelics are a fascinating group of substances that can profoundly shift how we perceive the world, process emotions, and think. Scientists have discovered they work primarily by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly one called 5-HT2A, which helps explain their remarkable effects on consciousness.

Compounds covered

• Psilocybin (Classic Psychedelic; 4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine): Found in over 200 mushroom species, converted to psilocin in the body.
• LSD (Classic Psychedelic; Lysergic acid diethylamide): One of the most potent psychoactive substances, active at microgram doses.
• DMT (Classic Psychedelic; N,N-Dimethyltryptamine & related tryptamines): A family of tryptamines including N,N-DMT, 5-MeO-DMT, and ayahuasca - each with distinct pharmacology and research trajectories.
• Mescaline (Classic Psychedelic; 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine): Found in peyote and San Pedro cacti, used ceremonially for thousands of years.
• Ibogaine (Oneirogen / Dissociative; 12-Methoxyibogamine): Derived from Tabernanthe iboga, shows unique promise for opioid addiction treatment.
• MDMA (Empathogen; 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine): Creates profound feelings of connection and openness, at the forefront of trauma therapy research.
• Ketamine (Dissociative Anesthetic; Ketamine hydrochloride): An NMDA receptor antagonist with FDA approval for treatment-resistant depression.
• Cannabis (Cannabinoid; THC & CBD): Includes THC (psychoactive) and CBD (non-psychoactive) - two cannabinoids with distinct pharmacology and clinical applications.

Important Safety Information

Harm Reduction Principles

Set. Your mindset, mood, and expectations before the experience. Proper preparation and positive mental state are crucial for safe experiences.

Setting. The physical and social environment. Safe, comfortable, and controlled settings with trusted individuals are essential.

Key Considerations

• Clinical trials use controlled environments with trained professionals
• Participants undergo psychological screening before research participation
• Personal or family history of psychotic disorders is typically an exclusion criterion
• Research protocols include preparation and follow-up sessions

Integration in Research

Clinical research protocols typically include integration sessions after psychedelic experiences. This process involves reflecting on and making meaning from the experience, and is considered an essential component of therapeutic outcomes in published studies.

Browse registered trials by substance or read the disclaimer.