Researchers consider links between genetics and psychosis in teen use of psychedelics

Genetics may be more responsible for an association between psychedelic use by teens and manic symptoms than the use of the drug itself. A recent study of 16,255 adolescent twins found that psychedelic use was associated with lower rates of psychotic symptoms when adjusting for other drug use. However, psychedelic use was associated with more manic symptoms in teens with a higher genetic vulnerability to schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder. The findings are focused on psychedelic-assisted therapy, which has shown promise in treating some psychiatric disorders. However, little is known about the risk of psychotic or manic symptoms in teens who use psychedelics recreationally, not therapeutically. This study used the Swedish Twin Registry to investigate links between recreational psychedelic use and self-reported psychotic or manic symptoms in adolescents. Among the 16,255 participants included in the analyses, 541 reported past use of psychedelics, most of whom (535 of 541 [99%]) also reported past use of other drugs. The findings come with significant limitations and should be interpreted with caution, the researchers concluded. Among the conflicts of interest reported, the lead author was the founder of Eudelics, a company which markets mindfulness, leadership, and psychedelics. Simonsson, O., et al. (2024, Mar 13). Adolescent psychedelic use and psychotic or manic symptoms. JAMA Psychiatry. Published online. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.0047.