A recent analysis of charts from a clinic in Mexico has revealed promising results for a combination treatment involving two psychedelic drugs, ibogaine hydrochloride and 5-MeO-DMT. The study, conducted by researchers from The Ohio State University, focused on U.S. special operations forces veterans who sought care at the clinic for complex psychiatric symptoms that did not respond to traditional therapies.
The study found that the combined treatment not only alleviated symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but also improved cognitive impairment associated with traumatic brain injury. This unexpected finding highlights the potential of psychedelics in addressing a wide range of mental health issues. The researchers noted that special operations forces veterans often experience repeated traumatic events as part of their jobs, which can contribute to a cluster of challenges including traumatic brain injury.
The study included 86 veterans who completed pre-treatment questionnaires assessing their mental health symptoms and satisfaction with life. Each participant received a single oral dose of ibogaine hydrochloride and multiple inhalation doses of 5-MeO-DMT. The results showed significant improvements in self-reported PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, insomnia severity, anger, and satisfaction with life at the one-month follow-up. These benefits were sustained at the three- and six-month follow-ups, with additional improvements in disability, post-concussive symptoms, psychological flexibility, and cognitive functioning.
Furthermore, the treatment had a positive impact on attitudes, behaviors, and relationships, with many participants describing the experience as spiritually significant or psychologically insightful. However, some participants also found it to be the most difficult or challenging experience of their lives.
While the study took a conservative approach to analyzing the data, the findings suggest that psychedelic therapy could be beneficial for veterans with complex trauma histories. The researchers stress the importance of further research and clinical trials to fully explore the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapies for treating mental health conditions among military veterans. In fact, Ohio State University is currently conducting a study on psilocybin-assisted therapy for PTSD treatment in veterans.
The study was a collaborative effort between researchers from Ohio State University, Baylor College of Medicine, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapies in addressing mental health challenges among military veterans. Further research in this field is crucial to provide effective and evidence-based treatments for those who have served their country.