What Makes a Psychedelic Experience?

This article discusses the ongoing debate among researchers about what happens when a person takes a psychedelic drug. Boris D. Heifets, an associate professor of anesthesiology at Stanford University School of Medicine, explores the different factors that contribute to the psychedelic experience. He categorizes these factors into three groups: the biochemical drug effect, the conscious experience related to changes in sensation and feelings, and the nondrug factors such as expectations and the setting in which the drug is taken. Heifets conducted a study using ketamine during general anesthesia to examine the biochemical drug effect and found that nondrug factors, such as expectations and feelings of hope, can contribute significantly to the therapeutic effects. He also discusses the possibility of creating a reproducible and powerful experience without the use of a psychedelic drug. Overall, the article highlights the importance of understanding the various components of the psychedelic experience in order to develop effective therapies. [Extracted from the article]