Psychedelics and MDMA are being talked about a lot these days, especially as potential treatments for mental health issues like depression and PTSD. But while there’s a lot of excitement, it’s important to look carefully at the risks these substances bring, especially when used outside of strict medical settings. MDMA can lead to several adverse effects, including “excessive thirst and profuse sweating, muscle cramping, shaking chills, little to no urine output, blurred vision, fainting, and seizures. Read more

What Can Go Wrong?

Even in controlled clinical studies where professionals oversee every step, these substances can cause side effects. Some people experience anxiety or headaches, while others may struggle with low moods after the effects wear off. These studies are done under very safe conditions, yet problems can still appear.

Now imagine using these substances without the same level of care—for instance, at a retreat, a party, or just on your own. The risks could be much higher. Some people have reported serious issues, like feeling disconnected from reality, struggling with unexplained anxiety, or even going through long-term mental and emotional distress. Others have described persistent visual disturbances or difficulty moving on from certain thoughts. Experts also worry that vulnerable people could be drawn into harmful group settings or influenced by dangerous ideas, especially in today’s online world.

Real Life Is Not a Lab

One of the biggest problems is that clinical trials don’t reflect how most people might use these substances. Trials are done carefully, with experts monitoring small groups of people. But in real life, anyone can access these substances, often with no guidance or precautions. This opens the door to unexpected and sometimes very serious outcomes, like mental health struggles or overwhelming emotions that won’t go away.

The truth is, there’s still so much we don’t know about the long-term effects of psychedelics and MDMA. If something goes wrong, there are very few treatments available to help people recover. This makes it especially important to be cautious.

Why We Need to Understand the Risks

We need to do more research to uncover the true extent of the dangers these substances pose. Scientists must study which people are most at risk and what conditions make harm more likely. This kind of research can help us protect people from harm on a larger scale.

At the same time, it’s essential to educate the public about these risks. People need clear, honest information about the dangers—without hype or misinformation—so they can make better decisions. Society should focus on raising awareness of the risks, especially as these substances become more accessible, both legally and illegally.

A Clear Message

While some may believe psychedelics and MDMA could hold promise for treating mental health issues, the risks—not just in the moment, but also long after—are real and serious. When used recklessly or without safeguards, these substances can cause life-altering harm. We must focus on safeguarding public health by bringing attention to these risks and ensuring everyone’s safety.

The takeaway is simple: safety and prevention should come first, and we must not shy away from educating others about the potential dangers.

Source: Jama Network