Hallucinogens and Death Risk: What You Need to Know

A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that people who seek emergency medical care due to hallucinogen use face a significantly higher risk of death within five years compared to the general population. Specifically, the study revealed a 2.6-fold increase in mortality risk for these individuals.

Growing Popularity of Hallucinogens

Hallucinogen use(such as ketamine, psychedelics, psilocybin, LSD, ayahuasca, and MDMA) has been rising rapidly since the mid-2010s, particularly in Canada and the United States. In the U.S., the percentage of people using hallucinogens more than doubled from 3.8% in 2016 to 8.9% in 2021. In Canada, approximately 5.9% of people reported using substances like LSD or psilocybin in 2023, with usage reaching as high as 13.9% among young adults aged 20–24.

Increased Use and Medical Interest

One reason for the increase in hallucinogen use is the growing interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy for mental health and substance use disorders. Clinical trials have shown promising results when these substances are used in controlled environments with professional supervision. However, outside of these controlled settings, there is limited data on potential negative effects, such as suicidal thoughts or an increased risk of death.

Study Findings: Emergency Care and Mortality Risk

To better understand the risks associated with hallucinogen use, researchers analyzed healthcare data from more than 11.4 million people in Ontario, Canada, aged 15 to 105 years. Out of this group, 7,954 individuals (0.07%) sought emergency or acute medical care due to hallucinogen use.

The study found that individuals who needed acute care for hallucinogens were almost 10 times more likely to die within five years than someone of the same age and gender in the general population. Even after adjusting for factors such as mental health conditions, substance use, and existing medical conditions, the risk remained significantly elevated at 2.6 times higher than the general population.

Factors Contributing to Higher Risk

The study also identified common characteristics among those who sought emergency care for hallucinogen use. These individuals were more likely to:

Live in low-income neighbourhoods
Have experienced homelessness
Be long-term residents of Canada
Have chronic health conditions
Have received mental health or substance use treatment in the past three years

Comparison with Other Substance-Related Emergency Cases

Researchers compared the risk of death among those seeking emergency care for different substances. They found that people who needed emergency care for hallucinogens had a higher risk of death than those with alcohol-related emergency visits. However, their risk was lower than individuals who sought acute care for opioid or stimulant use.

Importance of Further Research and Public Awareness

These findings emphasize the need for continued research into both the benefits and risks of hallucinogen use. As more people experiment with these substances, particularly outside of clinical settings, it is crucial to ensure that the public is informed about potential health risks.
According to Dr. Marco Solmi, a psychiatrist at The Ottawa Hospital and associate professor at the University of Ottawa, the study highlights the importance of responsible communication about hallucinogens, given their increasing popularity. Ongoing research will help provide a clearer picture of their long-term effects and the safest ways to use them.

Conclusion

Hallucinogens are gaining popularity, and while they may offer potential therapeutic benefits, their risks—especially for those requiring emergency care—should not be overlooked. With the significant increase in usage, it is more important than ever to understand the potential dangers associated with these substances and promote safe, informed decision-making among users.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.