Clinical pharmacology of ayahuasca: potential applications and future considerations.

INTRODUCTION

In the last few years, interest is growing around the topic of possible therapeutic properties of substances classified as psychedelic, especially for the treatment of mental disorders. Ayahuasca is a classic psychedelic with a complex composition, which has been used in traditional contexts for centuries.

AREAS COVERED: In this review, we explore the current evidence and limitations around ayahuasca use for the treatment of depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress and substance use disorders, with a focus on clinical and observation studies.

EXPERT OPINION: Similar to what happens with other psychedelics, there is an ongoing debate on subjective experience contribution to overall therapeutic mechanisms, which can depend on the targeted conditions. There are very few evidences from controlled studies, limiting the conclusions on safety and efficacy. On top of that, ayahuasca highly variable composition posits another challenge, and studies using isolated compounds are being developed.