Argentinian Research Evaluates Therapeutic Use of Psychedelics in Mental Disorders

Researchers in Argentina are advancing in the field of psychedelic research by developing a clinical study with 5-MeO-DMT, a substance investigated for its therapeutic potential in disorders such as depression and anxiety. 

According to the El Planteo portal, the trials are being conducted in the province of San Juan and mark one of the first initiatives of this kind in a public hospital in the country.

The study is taking place at the Decentralized Hospital Dr. Marcial V. Quiroga and is coordinated by the Catholic University of Cuyo, in partnership with the Canadian company BioMind Labs. 

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The research has been approved by the local Research Ethics Committee and by ANMAT, the Argentine regulatory agency, ensuring that the protocol follows international safety and ethical criteria.

Clinical Trial Follows Rigorous Model

According to El Planteo, the study is randomized and placebo-controlled, considered the gold standard in clinical research. Phases I and II have already been completed and focused on evaluating the safety, tolerability, and doses of the substance in humans.

40 volunteers, aged between 40 and 80 years, all with high levels of anxiety and depression, participated in the research. The participants were divided into groups that received different doses of synthetic 5-MeO-DMT, administered sublingually once a week for four weeks. A control group received a placebo. 

Throughout the study, the volunteers underwent continuous clinical monitoring, with physical, cognitive, and emotional assessments.

Synthetic Version and Next Steps

5-MeO-DMT, scientifically known as 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine, occurs naturally in plants and animals, but in this study, a synthetic version of the substance was used. 

This choice allows for greater control over the composition and dosage, as well as avoiding environmental impacts.

Although the complete results have not yet been disclosed, the progress of the initial phases is already considered a milestone for mental health research in Argentina. 

The expectation is that the data will contribute to expanding the scientific debate on new therapeutic alternatives, especially for patients who do not respond to conventional treatments.

With information from El.Planteo.