Psychedelics And Mental Health: FDA Stalls, But States Forge Ahead
The recent rejection by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of an application that would have authorized the use of MDMA for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) reignited the already ongoing discussion on psychedelic-assisted therapies. This not only affects the 13 million Americans who suffer this condition, but also delays by years the possible access to a life-changing treatment.
What’s Behind The FDA’s Decision?
Perhaps more importantly is how to address these sensitive issues in a legal framework? As noted by The Hill on Monday, the recent rejection raises questions about whether the emerging psychedelic pharmaceutical industry will be able to meet the agency’s stringent requirements in the near future. This scenario triggers different actions by state governments.
States Take The Lead Amid Federal Delays
While the FDA’s decision may seem like a setback, states don’t have to wait for federal action. Several states have already implemented regulations to provide veterans, sexual assault survivors, and others with safe and effective access to psychedelic-assisted therapies. This movement towards state-level regulation is a response to the stagnation caused by federal bureaucracy.
Psychedelic research faced significant obstacles beginning in the 1970s due to the war on drugs. Despite these challenges, there has been a resurgence of interest in the medical use of psychedelic compounds like MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy), psilocybin (magic mushrooms), and ibogaine. These substances have shown promise in treating a range of …