Psychoactive drugs are inherently dangerous due to their neurochemistry
the verdict
CONTESTED
the evidence cuts both ways
confidence 35/100
While many studies highlight the neurochemical mechanisms by which illicit or abused psychoactive substances cause addiction and cognitive harm, other research emphasizes that psychoactive compounds can also be safely utilized for therapeutic psychiatric treatment with manageable safety profiles.
Evidence for · 5
Herbal Highs: Review on Psychoactive Effects and Neuropharmacology.
2017 · cited by 0
Chronic administration of various psychoactive herbal substances is linked with addiction and cognitive impairment.
Evidence against · 2
Ayahuasca: Psychological and Physiologic Effects, Pharmacology and Potential Uses in Addiction and Mental Illness.
2019 · cited by 0
Some psychoactive substances, such as ayahuasca, exhibit a relatively mild side effect profile and potential therapeutic uses in mental illness and addiction.
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More for · 4
Neuropharmacology of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS): Focus on the Rewarding and Reinforcing Properties of Cannabimimetics and Amphetamine-Like Stimulants.
2016 · cited by 0
New psychoactive substances exhibit addictive properties and rewarding neurochemical mechanisms that drive dependence.
Role of Microglia in Psychostimulant Addiction.
2023 · cited by 0
Psychostimulant psychoactive substances modify brain function and contribute to the neuroimmune pathogenesis of addiction.
Neurobiological Underpinnings in Drug Addiction.
2022 · cited by 0
Repetitive use of addictive psychoactive drugs alters brain structure, neurotransmitter function, and neural circuitry.
A narrative review of the neuropharmacology of synthetic cathinones-Popular alternatives to classical drugs of abuse.
2023 · cited by 0
Synthetic cathinones mimic classic drugs of abuse and demonstrate significant addictive potential and toxicity.
More against · 1
Trends in the development of new antidepressants. Is there a light at the end of the tunnel?
2004 · cited by 0
Many prescription psychoactive drugs, such as modern antidepressants, are designed with high safety and tolerability profiles to safely modulate neurochemistry.