In recent years, Canada has witnessed a notable surge in the use of psychedelics, particularly among its younger population. An estimated 5.9% of Canadians reported using substances such as psilocybin in 2023. This trend is even more pronounced among individuals aged 20–24, with usage rates reaching as high as 13.9%. The trend has caught the attention of healthcare professionals who are now evaluating both the potential benefits and risks associated with these substances.
The increase in psychedelic use is not confined to recreational settings. There is also a significant underground movement where hallucinogens are utilized in "pseudo-therapeutic settings." Despite their growing popularity, concerns have arisen regarding the safety and long-term effects of these substances, particularly when used outside regulated clinical environments.
A comprehensive study conducted in Ontario analyzed data from over 11.4 million people aged 15 to 105 to evaluate the impact of hallucinogen use on healthcare services. The study revealed that 7,954 individuals, accounting for less than one-tenth of a percent, sought acute care for issues related to hallucinogen use. Within a five-year span, 482 of these individuals—equating to 6.1%—died. These figures prompted researchers to compare the mortality rate among hallucinogen users to that of the general population matched by age and sex.
The findings indicated a concerning association between hallucinogen use and an increased risk of death within five years. The study also linked hallucinogen use with higher incidences of suicide, other drug poisonings, lung disease, and cancer. However, the research does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between hallucinogen use and mortality, leaving room for further investigation.
"The findings highlight the need for ongoing investigation and dissemination of both potential benefits and risks from hallucinogen use, particularly for use outside clinical trial settings, given rapid increases in general population use," remarked the study's authors.
While the study identified important risks, it also underscored a critical gap in current medical understanding. Clinical trials often exclude individuals who may be at higher risk for adverse outcomes, potentially skewing public perception about the safety profile of hallucinogens. This exclusion may contribute to the misunderstanding that these substances carry minimal risk.
Dr. Jennifer Swainson emphasized, "I think what the public needs to take away is that if these drugs are abused or misused outside of proper medical supervision, there are risks associated with them, but also not to overcall it."
In the United States, the use of hallucinogens more than doubled from 3.8% in 2016 to 8.9% in 2021, reflecting a similar trend across North America. The effects of these substances can vary widely depending on an individual's underlying mental health conditions and family history related to psychosis or substance abuse.
Dr. Daniel Myran noted, "I think that we just don't have that degree of data or certainty."
Given these complexities, Dr. Myran advocates for targeted interventions for high-risk groups.
"They are a group that's at really high risk and they probably merit close observation, interventions and thoughts about what can you do to reduce the risk," he stated.
The study's authors and other experts encourage a balanced approach to understanding psychedelics—acknowledging their potential therapeutic benefits while rigorously assessing their risks. This nuanced view is crucial as society grapples with integrating these substances into mainstream therapeutic practices responsibly.
