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Psychedelic substitution: altered substance use patterns following psychedelic use in a global survey
Nicolas G Glynos1,2,3, Jacob S Aday1,2,3, Daniel Kruger4
1Anesthesiology Department, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
Frontiers in Psychiatry
|March 8, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic use was associated with decreased use of alcohol, antidepressants, and cocaine in a global survey. However, some participants increased illicit opioid and cannabis use, particularly in North America.
Area of Science:
- Psychopharmacology
- Addiction Medicine
- Global Health
Background:
- Psychedelics show promise for treating substance use disorders.
- Existing research is limited by small sample sizes and lack of global diversity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between psychedelic use and changes in the consumption of other substances.
- To explore factors influencing these changes in a diverse, global population.
Main Methods:
- A global, cross-sectional online survey of 5,268 adults reporting past or current psychedelic use.
- Analysis of self-reported changes in the use of non-psychedelic substances following naturalistic psychedelic experiences.
Main Results:
- 70.9% reported decreased use of at least one non-psychedelic substance; common reductions included alcohol, antidepressants, and cocaine.
- Decreased substance use often persisted for 26+ weeks, associated with motivations to reduce use or self-treat conditions.
- 19.8% reported increased or initiated use of other substances, notably illicit opioids and cannabis, particularly among higher-income individuals in Canada and the US.
Conclusions:
- This large observational study provides global insights into the complex relationship between psychedelic use and subsequent substance use patterns.
- Findings highlight the need for further research into the therapeutic potential and risks associated with psychedelic use in diverse populations.
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