Are psychedelics addictive?

Psychedelics are generally not considered to be addictive since they typically do not cause psychological or physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms.1 In fact, some psychedelics like psilocybin and ibogaine are being studied for their ability to treat people with substance use disorders.2, 3 It’s worth noting, however, that Individuals can develop a tolerance for these substances, which require higher doses to achieve desired effects and can lead to misuse, especially outside of a clinical setting.4 Also, ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic that produces psychedelic-like effects, can lead to addiction, particularly if used recreationally.5, 6 But the risk for addiction drops considerably when administered under the watchful eye of a licensed provider who’s trained in the proper handling of this drug.7

Footnotes

1. Cherry, K., (2023 May 23). Are Psychedelics Addictive? Very Well Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/are-psychedelics-addictive-6543189

2. Connell, D., (2023 June 1). Kentucky to Use Psychedelic Medicine Ibogaine to Fight the Opioid Crisis. Psychedelics.com. www.psychedelics.com

3. Jones, G., et al. (2022 April 7). Associations between classic psychedelics and opioid use disorder in a nationally representative U.S. adult sample. Scientific Reports. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-08085-4

4. Cherry, K., (2023 May 23). Are Psychedelics Addictive? Very Well Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/are-psychedelics-addictive-6543189

5. Perez, A., Davis, K., (2023 April 26). What are the uses of ketamine? Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/302663

6. Ko, S., (n.d.). Are Ketamine Infusions Addictive? ASKP3. https://www.askp.org/are-ketamine-infusions-addictive/ 

7. Ko, S., (n.d.). Are Ketamine Infusions Addictive? ASKP3. https://www.askp.org/are-ketamine-infusions-addictive/