Psychedelics as Antidepressants

The first modern antidepressants were originally tuberculosis medications, created from leftover World War II rocket fuel. In 2019, the Federal Drug Administration approved Spravato for depression, a chemical that was originally a veterinary anesthetic and later used recreationally as a club drug.

Why shouldn’t tomorrow’s antidepressants also come from unexpected sources?

Rising COVID infection rates and death tolls lead millions to worry about their own health and safety as well as that of loved ones. These concerns compound daily stressors that can include grief, economic insecurity, job loss, food and housing insecurities—all factors that are contributing to rising suicide rates.