RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Research abuses against people of colour and other vulnerable groups in early psychedelic research JF Journal of Medical Ethics JO J Med Ethics FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Institute of Medical Ethics SP 728 OP 737 DO 10.1136/medethics-2021-107262 VO 48 IS 10 A1 Strauss, Dana A1 de la Salle, Sara A1 Sloshower, Jordan A1 Williams, Monnica T YR 2022 UL http://jme.bmj.com/content/48/10/728.abstract AB There is a growing resurgence in the study of psychedelic medicines for the treatment of mental health and substance use disorders. However, certain early investigations are marred by questionable research methods, abuses against research participants, and covert Central Intelligence Agency financial involvement. The purpose of this study was to understand how and to what extent people of colour and other vulnerable populations, specifically, individuals who were incarcerated or incapacitated due to mental health issues (inpatients with psychotic disorders), were exploited during the first wave of psychedelic research in the USA (1950–1980). To do so, we reviewed available empirical publications according to current ethical standards. Variables of interest included race and ethnicity of participants, population vulnerability, drug administration conditions, informed consent and undue influence. Our findings draw attention to the history of research abuses against people of colour in Western psychedelic research. In light of these findings, we urge a call-to-action to current psychedelic researchers to prioritise culturally inclusive and socially responsible research methods in current and future studies.All data relevant to the study are included in the article.