Journal Club: High dose THC as psychedelic therapy?

It’s time to join us for another Journal Club! For this edition, we are going to explore the potential of high-dose THC within the common model of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) by discussing the paper “Pilot study comparing the effects of high dose THC to high dose psilocybin and placebo in the set and setting of a classic psychedelic therapy session” by Barrett et al. (2026). This journal club will be presented by our chair Kenan de Leeuw.

The discussion will take place in CREA on Thursday, September 17th from 19.30 to 20.30. Following the discussion, we’ll meet downstairs in the CREA cafe starting at 20.30. Can’t make it to the journal club? You’re still very welcome to join afterwards for drinks!

This study investigated whether Δ9-THC can produce a psychedelic-like experience under the set (expectancy) and setting (context) conditions of a typical psychedelic clinical trial. In this pilot study, four healthy adults received placebo, 25 mg psilocybin, and 25 mg Δ9-THC, with two participants also receiving 50 mg Δ9-THC. They found that 25 mg Δ9-THC in both forms yielded a subjective experience similar to 25 mg psilocybin, and that dronabinol was even mistaken for a classic hallucinogen by both a psychedelic-naïve and a psychedelic-experienced participant. The authors conclude that a 25 mg oral dose of pure, synthetic Δ9-THC can be mistaken for a classic hallucinogen and can produce “a psychedelic-like experience under set and setting conditions of a typical psychedelic clinical trial.” Although the findings are limited by the very small sample size, the authors suggest that they may contribute to understanding the comparative psychopharmacology of THC and psilocybin and highlight the “potentially substantial impact of set and setting on subjective effects of psychoactive drugs.

During Journal Clubs we discuss scientific publications related to psychedelics, dissect their contents and have an in-depth discussion about the methodology and implications of the research. Not only is it very insightful (and fun!) to do this in group form; it also helps improve your literacy of scientific publications. All levels of knowledge are welcome. You do not need to be an expert in the topics that are discussed – “no stupid questions” is the motto!

APRA membership is required to attend Journal Clubs. Please use the registration form below if you are attending. Not a member yet, but curious to attend? Send us a message!