Salivary Oxytocin as a Biomarker in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy

Salivary Oxytocin as a Biomarker in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy for Anxiety and Depression: a Pilot Study

The main objective of this pilot study is to obtain preliminary data on the reactivity of salivary oxytocin during a single LSD intake as part of PAP treatment for anxiety disorders or depression (treatment authorisations granted in advance by the Federal Officie of Public Health for compassionate use of the substance).

There will be no interference with the usual clinical routine in our Service. The protocol is only for taking additional saliva measurements to measure oxytocin levels on the day of treatment.

Participants will be asked to give 4 saliva samples the day of their LSD treatment .In addition they will fill-in self-report questionnaires which are part of the clinical routine

Inclusion Criteria:

• ongoing psychotherapy with a certified psychotherapist, anxiety disorder or depression resistant to usual treatments, agreement to stop necessary medication

Exclusion Criteria:

• Exclusion: psychotic or bipolar disorder, high suicidal risk, severe cardiovascular disease, severe liver disease, neurological disease of the central nervous system, pregnancy and breastfeeding