Psychedelics Enhance Creativity After Use, But MDMA Disrupts Memory, Study Shows

A groundbreaking study published in Scientific Reports offers the most comprehensive analysis yet of how classic psychedelics, such as LSD and psilocybin, and the drug MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy) impact cognitive functions during and after use. As PsyPost reported, the research reveals that these substances affect the brain in different ways, with psychedelics impairing attention and executive function, while MDMA primarily disrupts memory.

Interestingly, the study also suggests that psychedelics may enhance creativity and executive function after their immediate effects have worn off—an effect not observed with MDMA. This finding is particularly relevant as the use of these substances surges in both recreational and therapeutic settings, raising concerns about their cognitive risks and benefits.

Key Findings From The Study

The researchers conducted a meta-analysis, combining data from 122 studies, to assess the cognitive effects of psychedelics and MDMA. Their focus was on three cognitive domains: memory, executive function and attention.

• Psychedelics: During the acute phase, psychedelics were found to impair attention and executive function, making it difficult for users to focus or make complex decisions. However, memory was less affected and some studies even reported no impact on memory performance. Notably, once the acute effects of psychedelics had subsided, some cognitive functions, particularly executive function and creativity, appeared to improve—an afterglow effect that could last up to 24 hours.
• MDMA: In contrast, MDMA primarily impaired memory during the acute phase, with little to no effect on attention and executive function. The study found no evidence of an afterglow effect with MDMA, indicating that cognitive functions returned to baseline once the drug’s effects wore off, with no lasting cognitive benefits.

Implications For Recreational And Therapeutic Use

The distinct cognitive profiles of psychedelics and MDMA have important implications for both recreational and therapeutic contexts. For recreational users, understanding these cognitive effects can help promote safer use practices, such as avoiding activities that require focus or decision-making while under the influence of psychedelics.

In therapeutic settings, the potential afterglow effect of psychedelics could be leveraged to enhance the effectiveness of therapy sessions conducted after the psychedelic experience. Meanwhile, MDMA’s impact on memory could be beneficial in therapies for conditions like PTSD, where disrupting traumatic memories is a key goal.

Challenges In Research And Variability Of Effects

The study’s findings also underscore the complexity of how these substances affect cognition. The researchers observed significant variability across the studies included in the meta-analysis, highlighting the challenges of drawing definitive conclusions.

“The most surprising finding was the heterogeneity of the results,” said study author Lukas A. Basedow. “Some people are able to retain their cognitive abilities under psychedelic influence, indicating that the effects of these substances are not straightforward or predictable.”

Future Directions For Psychedelic And MDMA Research

Future research will need to address this variability by using more standardized neuropsychological tests and directly comparing the effects of different psychedelics and MDMA under the same conditions.

Cover image made with AI