A study published in the Journal of the Canadian Medical Association reveals a significantly higher five-year mortality risk among individuals who seek emergency care for hallucinogen use.
Hallucinogen consumption has surged since the mid-2010s, particularly among young adults. In Canada, 5.9% of the population reported using psychedelics like LSD or psilocybin in 2023, with rates reaching 13.9% among those aged 20–24. “Despite the growing popularity of hallucinogen use, we know surprisingly little about the potential adverse effects,” warns Dr. Daniel Myran.
The study analyzed medical records of over 11.4 million people in Ontario, identifying 7,954 cases of hallucinogen-related emergency visits. This group faced a mortality risk ten times higher than the general population. Even after adjusting for confounding factors, the risk of death remained 2.6 times higher—greater than for alcohol users but lower than for opioid users.
Socioeconomic factors played a critical role, as hallucinogen users were more likely to experience homelessness and mental health disorders. While psychedelics are being explored for mental health treatments, “clinical trials exclude people at high risk of adverse effects,” Dr. Myran notes. Psychiatrist Dr. Marco Solmi stresses the importance of continued research, stating, “The findings highlight the need for ongoing research and education about the potential benefits and risks of hallucinogen use, especially outside of clinical trials.”
As hallucinogens become more accessible, understanding their risks is essential, especially for individuals using them outside controlled medical settings.
