Long-term effects of ayahuasca in patients with recurrent depression: a 5-year qualitative follow-up

Author(s)

dos Santos, Rafael G. ; Sanches, Rafael Faria ; Osorio, Flavia de Lima ; Hallak, Jaime E. C.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL PSYCHIATRY; v. 45, n. 1, p. 3-pg., 2018-01-01.

Abstract

Background: Ayahuasca is a botanical hallucinogenic preparation traditionally used by indigenous populations of Northwestern Amazonian countries for ritual and therapeutic purposes. It is rich in beta-carboline alkaloids and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Preclinical, observational, and experimental studies suggest that ayahuasca and its alkaloids have anxiolytic and antidepressive effects. We recently reported in an open-label trial that ayahuasca administration was associated with significant decreases in depression symptoms for 2-3 weeks after the experimental session in 17 patients with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder. Objectives: To investigate if the experiment had any long-lasting effects on patients Methods: Eight patients were interviewed 4 to 7 years after ayahuasca intake. Results: Our results suggest that ayahuasca was well tolerated and that symptom reductions were limited to a few weeks. Importantly, most patients believed that the experience was among the most important of their lives, even 4-7 years later. Discussion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first long-term follow-up of a clinical sample that participated in an ayahuasca trial. Further studies with different and repeated dosing should be designed to further explore the antidepressive and anxiolytic effects of ayahuasca. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/02848-2 - Social and music performance anxiety: acute effects of oxytocin and Ayahuasca in voice, recognition of facial expressions,clinical and cognitive symptoms
• Grantee: Flávia de Lima Osório
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants