Psychedelics, OCD and related disorders: A systematic review

This systematic review analyzes the current literature on the potential therapeutic use of classic psychedelics (i.e., psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide [LSD], N,N-dimethyltryptamine [DMT], 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine [5-MeO-DMT], mescaline, and other classic psychedelic analogs utilized in preclinical models) in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders. Our search identified 23 articles meeting our predetermined eligibility criteria, comprising 2 non-systematic reviews, 11 preclinical studies investigating the use of classic psychedelics or analogs in preclinical models of OCD, 8 case studies or case reports, and 2 clinical trials. This review provides an up-to-date synthesis of psychedelic OCD research, bridging preclinical findings, historical case reports, and initial clinical trial outcomes. Psilocybin appears to be the most widely used classic psychedelic and is well-tolerated in both OCD and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) populations, with some participants experiencing significant symptom reduction. This review contributes to our understanding of the potential of classic psychedelics (in particular LSD and psilocybin) as novel therapeutic interventions for OCD and related disorders, offering insights into future research directions and clinical applications in this emerging field.