Researchers from the Louisiana State University Health New Orleans School of Medicine have found that a drug noted for its psychedelic properties is capable of preventing the development of allergic asthma among mice.

Share on Pinterest The psychedelic drug (R)-DOI is known to stimulate serotonin receptors associated with anti-inflammatory activity.

In a study published in the American Journal of Physiology – Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology, the authors identify the drug (R)-DOI as one that can promote powerful anti-inflammatory activity within the body.

“These drugs are known only for their effects in the brain,” says study author Dr. Charles Nichols. “What we have demonstrated for the first time is that they are also effective in treating physiological diseases outside of the brain, a completely new and exciting role for this class of drug.”

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), asthma affects more than 25 million people in the US. Of these, around 7 million are children.

Asthma causes the airways to narrow and become inflamed. When these airways react to certain inhaled substances, the muscles around them tighten, and increased levels of mucus can be produced. Together, these reactions lead to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath and coughing.

Common forms of therapy for asthma include the use of bronchodilators – medications that relax the muscles surrounding the airways – and inhaled glucocorticoids; medications used in an inhaler that reduce inflammation.