PSILOCYBIN AND PSYCHEDELICS IN AVIATION MEDICINE.

Lowry, Cheryl; Tyler, William

INTRODUCTION: Recent clinical trials have demonstrated the potential of psilocybin and related tryptamine psychedelics in addressing mental health and substance abuse disorders, as well as enhancing human performance. The Department of Veterans Affairs has recently begun clinical trials for the use of psychedelic medications for treatment of PTSD and other behavioral health diagnoses. Therefore, it is possible that pilots with a military background will have received these experimental treatments. It is important for physicians involved in both clinical aerospace medicine, as well as aeromedical policy and safety, to understand the clinical indications and implications of psychedelic medications. This presentation is based on a review of recent literature involving the use of psychedelic medications for for treatment of behavioral health diagnoses including PTSD and addiction. TOPIC: When treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction among aircrew, psilocybin therapy appears to bolster introspection and perceptions of wellbeing, potentially diminishing aviation safety risks attributed to mental health. Separately, there is emerging evidence indicating non-medical advantages of psilocybin microdosing, such as heightened focus, creativity, and sensorimotor performance. These effects have potential to refine the cognitive and physical prowess of pilots and astronauts, offering augmented training outcomes, expedited reactions, and superior aircraft handling. APPLICATION: If psychedelic medicines receive regulatory approval, stringent protocols and guidelines must be crafted to safeguard against any detrimental impacts on aviation operations and safety. Determining the effects of psychedelic treatments on aviationspecific cognitive and sensorimotor skills necessitates rigorous exploration. Judicious microdosing may benefit aerospace and military performance. Psychedelic treatments may refine cognitive and physical prowess of pilots and astronauts, offering augmented training outcomes, expedited reactions, and superior piloting. The rapid re-emergence of psychedelic treatments warrants the attention and involvement of the aerospace medicine community. Additional safety and efficacy research is imperative to navigate the complexities of integrating psychedelics within aviation, and the applicability to pilots and military personnel. Learning Objectives 1. Identify the clinical research indications for the use of psychedelic medications. 2. Discuss the potential performance enhancement properties of psychedelic medications and their application in aviation medicine. 3. Discuss the risks of psychedelic medication use in pilots.

PSILOCYBIN; SEX addiction; AVIATION medicine; HALLUCINOGENIC drugs; AERONAUTICAL safety measures; CLINICAL indications; MEDICAL research

Aerospace Medicine & Human Performance, 2024, Vol 95, Issue 8, p558

2375-6314

Academic Journal