First-of-its-kind clinic treats psychedelic side effects

As the use of psychedelic substances grows in the United States, new clinics are emerging to address uncommon, long-term side effects caused by these drugs. The first of its kind, the Clinic for Post-Psychedelic Difficulties (CPD) was established last year by researchers at Johns Hopkins University, marking the first U.S. clinic dedicated to studying and treating these adverse effects.

Psychiatrist Azin Bekhrad, who co-founded the Baltimore clinic, aims to create a network of providers to collaborate on treating challenging patients. The CPD focuses on two primary groups: those who experience mania, psychosis, or other psychiatric symptoms after using psychedelics, and those with a rare condition called hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD), which can cause visual disturbances such as visual snow, halos, and geometric shapes.

While these symptoms typically subside within a year, some patients have reported lingering effects for over two decades. Current treatments for these conditions typically involve a combination of antidepressants and antiseizure medications, with about a third of patients achieving full recovery within a year. However, the true prevalence of long-term issues with psychedelics remains unknown, as many individuals use these drugs recreationally and rarely report adverse effects.

Other clinics specializing in psychedelic-related adverse events are expected to open soon, including one at Emory University in Atlanta. Experts emphasize that while psychedelics can be highly beneficial for treating mental health conditions, they also carry risks, particularly when used improperly or by individuals with preexisting psychiatric disorders.