Understanding psychedelic experiences can enhance harm reduction

  • SOURCE ▸
    PUBLISHED
  • January 7, 2020
  • AUTHORS
  • Joseph J. Palamar, Patricia Acosta,
  • PUBLICATION
  • Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental
  • TITLE
  • Understanding psychedelic experiences can enhance harm reduction
  • A qualitative descriptive analysis of effects of psychedelic phenethylamines and tryptamines
  • KEY TAKEAWAY
  • The majority of users reported favorable experiences with 2C-B, likening its effects to MDMA and LSD, while NBOMe was generally viewed unfavorably and DOx was criticized for its prolonged effects; understanding these subjective experiences can enhance harm reduction efforts in psychedelic use.

The study by Palamar and Acosta (2020) offers a rare glimpse into the subjective experiences of individuals who have used novel psychedelic phenethylamines and tryptamines, expanding the knowledge base on these often under-researched substances. Through in-depth interviews with 39 adults, the researchers unearthed rich descriptions of the effects of 36 different compounds, primarily focusing on the 2C series, NBOMe, DOx, and certain tryptamines like 4-AcO-DMT.The findings reveal a preference among users for 2C-B, a substance within the 2C series, noted for its effects that resemble those of MDMA and LSD, suggesting a more favorable experience. In contrast, NBOMe compounds were generally received unfavorably by the study participants, who often reported negative experiences. The DOx class of compounds was criticized for the overly prolonged duration of its effects, which could last anywhere from 12 to 36 hours, presenting a stark difference in user experience compared to more traditionally used psychedelics.Particularly interesting is the report on 4-AcO-DMT, a tryptamine that participants described as closely mimicking the effects of psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms. This insight is valuable for understanding the nuanced spectrum of subjective experiences elicited by these substances, indicating potential overlaps in the effects of synthetic compounds and naturally occurring psychedelics.This study's exploration into the qualitative descriptions of drug effects contributes significantly to the fields of drug education, prevention, and harm reduction. By delineating the subjective experiences associated with various psychedelic compounds, the research offers a foundation for informing safer use practices, potential therapeutic applications, and targeted harm reduction strategies. The distinct experiences described by users underscore the complexity of psychedelic substances and highlight the importance of nuanced approaches to understanding and addressing their use in society.

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