FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS PSYCHEDELIC MEDICINE?
The Psychedelic medicine we work with is a dissociative analgesic that has been safely used since the 1960s as an FDA-approved medication and is found to be an effective treatment off-label for depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, OCD, addiction, and other mental health concerns.
SAFETY
Side effects of the psychedelic medicine treatment may include: headache, nausea, vomiting, slurred speech, blurred vision, confusion, nystagmus (rapid eye movement), anxiety, elevated blood pressure or heart rate, elevated intraocular pressure, elevated intracranial pressure and altered vision, hearing, and sensation. psychedelic medicine may create a moderate psychological dependence and may increase issues in people with schizophrenia, psychosis or other acute mental health conditions. If you or your family members have a history of psychosis please discuss with your Floresta clinician to assess if you are a candidate for this treatment. Rare adverse effects in frequent and heavy users of psychedelic medicine report urinary or bladder issues. Psychedelic medicine has been reported to produce the side effects above, however is not limited to those listed. Following the safety protocols outlined by your medical team can support mitigating any side effects or adverse effects.
WHAT ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION WILL BE USED?
We will be offering psychedelic medicine through intramuscular injection for the most profound experience. Intramuscular (IM) psychedelic medicine has a rapid onset which allows for a more robust and profound psychedelic experience when compared to other delivery methods such as IV, Oral and Intranasal spray.
WHAT IS THE JOURNEY LIKE?
Psychedelic medicine creates a sense of calm and disconnection from one’s usual sense of reality. One may experience ease, inspiration, gratitude, empathy, increased awareness, new ways of seeing and experiencing, creativity and possibilities. You may experience an openness to new perspectives, interconnected or “oneness,” a rebirth and a capacity to travel outside one’s ordinary state of consciousness.
WHY CHOOSE PSYCHEDELIC MEDICINE?
Psychedelic medicine is one of the most well known FDA approved anesthetics used and through numerous studies has been shown to have rapid antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects as well as an effective treatment for many other mental health conditions. It works by rewiring the brain to allow for a lift in mood, increased energy and new perspectives. Psychedelic medicine works by enhancing neuroplasticity by increasing levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which is known to assist in the growth and support of neurons and neural connections. What this means is changes can be made and sustained quickly and effectively within a supportive set and setting and integration.
CAN PSYCHEDELIC MEDICINE ASSIST TO GET OFF ANTIDEPRESSANTS?
Psychedelic medicine along with a plan of care with your current prescriber and a supportive environment can assist with more ease in tapering off your current psychiatric medication. Please consult with your current prescriber to allow for safe management in discontinuing your medications.
WHAT MAKES PSYCHEDELIC MEDICINE AN OFF-LABEL MEDICATION?
Off-label prescriptions are a legal way to use medications in a way that has not been FDA approved. About one in five prescriptions are written for off-label use and is common.
K-HOLES AND "BAD TRIPS"
Your Floresta team is here to support you throughout your journey to encourage you to have a therapeutic and meaningful experience. Psychedelic medicine has an anti-anxiety effect which promotes calm and relaxation which people describe as a dreamlike or meditative state. If you encounter a challenging experience your Floresta team is well equipped to support you to ensure that you are guided and safely cared for.
WHAT IF I DO NOT QUALITY AFTER MY EVALUATION?
If during your psychiatric evaluation you are not medically fit for the retreat, you will be given a full refund.