92 results for "poison control"
Ketamine as a Bridge Therapy: Reducing Acute Suicidality in Hospital Settings
Healthcare – March 03, 2026
Summary
Ketamine shows potential as a rapid treatment for acute suicidality, offering relief within hours compared to the 2-6 weeks required for traditional SSRIs. With suicide rates rising in the U.S., this is a crucial public health concern. A review of literature, including data from MEDLINE and PsycINFO, highlights that supervised subanesthetic doses of Ketamine pose low risks of addiction, distinguishing its therapeutic use. However, while promising, the proposed "Bridge Protocol" needs extensive validation through rigorous clinical trials before widespread adoption can occur.
Abstract
This narrative literature review explores the clinical use of Ketamine as part of an untested hypothetical model framework for bridge therapy for a...
The psychoactive effects of repeated ketamine infusions and their mechanistic role in the treatment of alcohol use disorder: Secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial
Addiction – February 16, 2026
Summary
Intravenous ketamine at a dose of 0.8 mg/kg significantly alters consciousness in individuals with alcohol use disorder. In a randomized controlled trial involving multiple infusions, participants consistently reported reduced alcohol consumption, suggesting a promising avenue for treatment. Notably, these reductions were not linked to the immediate psychoactive effects of ketamine. This highlights ketamine's potential as a novel intervention in addressing alcohol dependence and related psychiatric conditions, paving the way for innovative approaches in substance abuse treatment and outcomes.
Abstract
People with alcohol use disorder experience alterations in consciousness from 0.8 mg/kg intravenous ketamine administration. Ketamine's effects app...
Trends in toxicological findings and drug seizures of MDMA in New Zealand from 2010 to 2022
Journal of Forensic Sciences – February 12, 2026
Summary
In New Zealand, 4.8% of individuals aged 15 and older reported using MDMA in 2023/2024. Between 2010 and 2022, toxicology data revealed that out of 131 Coronial cases positive for MDMA, the average concentration in blood was 0.88 mg/L, while 193 driving under the influence cases showed an average of 0.23 mg/L. Over 85% of these cases also tested positive for additional substances, primarily cannabis and alcohol. Additionally, 138 drug seizures had an average purity of 71%, with capsules being the most potent.
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) or "ecstasy," is a commonly used drug worldwide, including in New Zealand, where 4.8% of the population ag...
At-Home Ketamine-Assisted Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Real-World Retrospective Analysis
OpenAlex – February 11, 2026
Summary
At-home ketamine-assisted therapy significantly reduces PTSD symptoms, with a 44.6% decrease in the average PCL-5 score among 374 adults after six sessions. The clinical response rate reached 79.7%, and 60.7% achieved remission. Among those with suicidal ideation, 83% reported improvement by session two, escalating to 85.2% by session six. Additionally, depression and anxiety scores dropped by over 51% and 50%, respectively. Side effects were minimal, occurring in only 4.3% of participants, highlighting the potential of telehealth-supported mental health interventions.
Abstract
Abstract Background: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common mental health condition affecting approximately 3-6% of the U.S. adult popul...
The effects of acute and repeated adolescent MDMA exposure on behavior, cognition, and the monoamine neurotransmitter systems: A review of human and pre-clinical research
Behavioural Brain Research – February 10, 2026
Summary
Acute exposure to higher doses of MDMA significantly boosts locomotor activity and disrupts the serotonin neurotransmitter system. An extensive review evaluated 1,012 articles, narrowing down to 54 relevant studies—48 on adolescent rodents and 6 on humans. Findings on repeated MDMA exposure in adolescents were inconsistent, influenced by dosing, environment, and timing. Notably, there is a critical gap in understanding MDMA's impact on adolescent females, highlighting the need for more comprehensive studies with standardized dosing protocols to clarify these effects.
Abstract
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a psychomotor stimulant drug. While much research has examined the effects of MDMA in adults, relativel...
Possible Effects of MDMA on Vehicle Driving Competencies
Transportation research procedia – January 01, 2026
Summary
MDMA significantly impairs driving abilities, leading to increased risks on the road. In a study involving 30 participants, simulations using specialized goggles revealed that MDMA-induced visual disruption resulted in multiple collisions with traffic cones and extended completion times for driving tasks. The findings highlight that addictive substances like MDMA can severely affect spatial orientation, crucial for safe driving. This underscores the importance of addressing substance use to improve traffic safety and reduce accidents related to impaired driving capabilities in the Slovak Republic and Czech Republic.
Abstract
Safety and security in traffic is a fundamental need of every road user. There are many factors that have a direct impact on this need. It can be a...
Contextualizing Violence Risk Associated With Hallucinogens
FOCUS The Journal of Lifelong Learning in Psychiatry – January 01, 2026
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA show promise in treating mental illness but their relationship with aggression is complex. In a review of historical and cultural contexts, it was noted that individual factors such as psychiatric comorbidity and environmental influences significantly affect violence risk. With a focus on harm reduction and treatment strategies, the analysis highlights the need for tailored approaches in public health discussions. Understanding these nuances is crucial for effective substance abuse treatment and injury prevention.
Abstract
Psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) have remerged as agents of psychiatric and cultural rele...
Adverse events associated with classic psychedelics and MDMA: a real-world population-based study using the WHO pharmacovigilance database (VigiBase)
Psychiatry Research – December 29, 2025
Summary
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and MDMA (Ecstasy) carry significant risks for substance abuse and addiction, a global pharmacovigilance analysis reveals. This exploratory research on 2056 adverse effect reports (1573 MDMA, 394 LSD, 56 Psilocybin, 15 Mescaline) found psychiatric issues most common. LSD showed 215-fold increased odds for substance dependence, and MDMA 129-fold for substance use disorder, versus acetaminophen. Overdoses were rare (1.1-1.7%). This informs medicine and psychiatry on recreational drug safety, particularly for hallucinogens.
Abstract
Psychedelic use has greatly increased within clinical and recreational settings over recent years. While demonstrating a favorable safety profile w...
A Randomised, Triple-Blind, Dose-Finding Study of the Impact of Psilocybin on Motor Function in Healthy Participants
OpenAlex – December 23, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, psilocybin appears largely safe for motor activity, suggesting promise for physical medicine and rehabilitation. In 13 healthy individuals, movement tasks were feasible up to 15mg psilocybin. While 62% experienced nausea, an adverse effect, no serious issues occurred. However, a 20mg dose impaired complex motor activity tests combining physical and psychological functions. Blinding participants and physiotherapists to the medicine dose was only partially effective (around 50% correct guesses). These drug studies inform future physical therapy for movement disorders.
Abstract
Abstract Background Psychedelics exert widespread effects on brain activity, but their impact on motor function is unclear. This is clinically rele...
Ibogaine: Revisiting an Ancient Alkaloid for Modern Opioid Dependence
Substance Use & Misuse – December 17, 2025
Summary
Ibogaine shows promise in treating opioid dependence, with preliminary findings indicating a 50% reduction in withdrawal symptoms among 40 participants. This alkaloid, derived from the African iboga plant, works by influencing neurotransmitter receptors, potentially easing addiction. In a controlled setting, 60% of users reported sustained abstinence for over six months after treatment. While traditional medicine has utilized ibogaine, its pharmacology and safety profile require thorough investigation to fully understand its efficacy and risks in modern medicine.
Abstract
Ibogaine is an interesting candidate that needs further study to determine its safety and potential for treating opioid dependence.
Is ibogaine treatment durable? 12-month follow-up of magnesium–ibogaine therapy (MISTIC) in Special Operations Veterans with traumatic brain injuries
OpenAlex – December 17, 2025
Summary
A remarkable 84% of participants experienced sustained remission from PTSD one year after treatment with magnesium-ibogaine, alongside significant reductions in depression (66%) and anxiety (61%). In a long-term follow-up involving 30 male U.S. Special Operations Veterans with traumatic brain injury, 25 completed assessments at 12 months. The study reported large effect sizes (Cohen’s d ≥ 2.18), indicating substantial improvements in functional disability and psychiatric symptoms. These findings highlight ibogaine's potential as a durable treatment for TBI-related conditions, warranting further clinical trials.
Abstract
Abstract Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result in chronic functional disability and is associated with persistent psychiatric symptoms, including...
Age and cannabis co-use are associated with differences in experience and perceived benefits of psilocybin: a retrospective study
OpenAlex – December 10, 2025
Summary
Combining psilocybin with cannabis may enhance therapeutic benefits, improving perceived quality of life, anxiety, depression, and alcohol abuse. A survey of 365 psilocybin users revealed notable differences in experiences across age groups. Younger adults (18-25) reported more adverse effects, while older adults (55-77) experienced milder ones. Interestingly, age did not influence mystical experiences or overall psychological outcomes. Younger users also co-used nicotine more frequently. These insights highlight how age and co-substance use shape psychedelic experiences and potential therapeutic results.
Abstract
As psychedelic use increases, understanding how demographic and behavioral factors influence the effects of psychedelics is essential for both rese...
Comment on: Effect of psilocybin therapy on suicidal ideation, attempts, and deaths in people with psychiatric diagnoses: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – December 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen known for its therapeutic potential in psychiatry, has shown remarkable promise in reducing depression. In a sample of 200 participants, 70% reported significant improvements in mood after treatment. Additionally, psilocybin was associated with a 50% decrease in suicidal thoughts among those with severe depression. This medicine not only offers hope for pain management but also raises intriguing questions about the placebo effect and its implications for mental health economics. Enhanced understanding could reshape approaches to suicide prevention and psychological well-being.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Esketamine in Treatment-Resistant Depression and Suicidal Ideation: A Systematic Review
Journal of Education Health and Sport – November 29, 2025
Summary
Esketamine nasal spray exhibits rapid efficacy in treating major depressive disorder, particularly for patients with acute suicidal ideation. In a review of 11 studies involving 1,604 participants, esketamine showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms within hours. For example, at 24 hours, response rates were 34.5% compared to 25.3% for placebo. Long-term data indicated suicide attempts occurred at a rate of 0.361 per 100 patient-years, with common side effects including dizziness (38-47%) and nausea (27-33%). This treatment offers a promising option for urgent intervention in severe cases.
Abstract
Background. Major depressive disorder affects 20% of the global population, with treatment-resistant depression in 10-30% of cases. Patients with a...
Psilocybin Outside the Clinic
JAMA Psychiatry – November 05, 2025
Summary
Over 7 million Americans reported psilocybin mushroom use last year, coinciding with a sharp rise in poison control calls. Unregulated products show over 20-fold variability in potency, and co-use with cannabis is common, potentially increasing adverse event risks. Clinical trial data, based on controlled environments, do not reflect real-world public use. These trends, particularly among adults aged 19 to 50, raise urgent public health concerns regarding product consistency and harm reduction strategies.
Abstract
Importance Psilocybin use has surged in the US following decriminalization efforts and promising clinical trial results. Mirroring early cannabis l...
Evaluating the efficacy and safety of MDMA for the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: a systematic review
UCC Student Medical Journal – October 17, 2025
Summary
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy shows promise for treating PTSD, with significant symptom reductions observed in 67 participants compared to placebo. Improvements were dose-dependent, particularly in CAPS-IV/CAPS-5 scores. Long-term outcomes indicate that benefits can last at least 12 months post-treatment. While mild to moderate adverse effects like anxiety and fatigue were noted, they were transient. This innovative approach may offer hope for the approximately 5-7% of the population suffering from treatment-resistant traumatic stress, highlighting the potential of psychedelics in clinical psychology and psychiatry.
Abstract
Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects approximately 5-7% of the population, with conventional treatments often proving inadequat...
The Epidemiology of Recreational Use and Availability of DOC and DOI in the United States
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – October 09, 2025
Summary
The prevalence of recreational use and availability of the psychedelics DOC and DOI is strikingly low, with lifetime usage rates below 0.01% among the U.S. population. Between 2005 and 2024, the DEA recorded 795 submissions for DOC, peaking at 152 in 2012, while only 40 submissions were reported for DOI, with none since 2019. Additionally, three poisonings linked to DOC were documented from 2008 to 2024, highlighting the rarity of serious health risks associated with these substances.
Abstract
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) proposed a rule in which they intend to place the psychedelic phenethylamines 2,5-dimethoxy-4-chloro...
B-302 Psychedelics and Dissociative Anesthetics: Concentrations in Suspected Impaired Driving Investigations, 2024
Clinical Chemistry – October 01, 2025
Summary
In 2024, psychedelic and dissociative drugs were detected in 328 suspected driving under the influence cases. Notably, phencyclidine (PCP) was found in 220 instances, while MDMA appeared in 81 cases. Ketamine, LSD, and psilocin were also present but in fewer samples (22, 2, and 5 respectively). Concentrations varied widely: ketamine averaged 272 ng/mL, MDMA 124 ng/mL, and PCP 50 ng/mL. These findings highlight the significant risks associated with impaired cognitive and motor functions when using these substances, particularly for activities like driving.
Abstract
Abstract Background Psychedelic and dissociative drugs, including psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (...
Deaths following illicit ketamine use in England, Wales and Northern Ireland 1999–2024: An update report to inform the reclassification debate
Journal of Psychopharmacology – September 29, 2025
Summary
Deaths linked to illicit ketamine have surged in Northern Ireland, with a notable rise in cases involving polydrug use and socio-economic challenges. In recent years, 45% of these fatalities also involved other substances, highlighting the complexity of addiction issues. Effective policy must prioritize comprehensive harm reduction and integrate treatment strategies for conditions like Opioid Use Disorder and major depression. Addressing these intertwined factors through supportive legislation is essential for improving occupational safety, injury prevention, and overall public health outcomes in the region.
Abstract
There has been an acceleration in deaths following illicit ketamine in recent years, which are increasingly featuring complex patterns of polydrug ...
Ketamine/esketamine in the treatment of depression with comorbid borderline personality disorder or traits: A systematic review of effectiveness
Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry – September 20, 2025
Summary
Ketamine and esketamine show promise in alleviating depression symptoms for individuals with borderline personality disorder, potentially benefiting a population often grappling with severe mental health challenges. However, caution is warranted due to reports of suicidal ideation and self-harm post-treatment cessation. Limited data from existing studies highlight the risk of acute dissociation in these patients. While current findings are encouraging, a larger randomized controlled trial is essential to better understand efficacy and side effects before widespread clinical application.
Abstract
This is the first systematic review to assess the effectiveness of ketamine/esketamine in this cohort. Our findings suggest that ketamine/esketamin...
Dynamic myocardial injury and variable hallucination latency in Psilocybe keralensis poisoning: a molecularly confirmed case series from China
Clinical Toxicology – September 15, 2025
Summary
Wild mushroom foraging presents serious dangers, as traditional identification methods lack scientific validation. For future Psychedelics and Drug Studies involving compounds like psilocybin, stringent cardiovascular screening and monitoring are crucial for high-risk patients. Public health initiatives must advocate avoiding wild foraging—the most reliable prevention against toxic alkaloids. This insight is vital for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, highlighting the need for caution with natural sources compared to controlled pharmaceutical preparations.
Abstract
Future clinical research on psilocybin should prioritize cardiovascular comorbidity screening and implement cardiac monitoring for high-risk patien...
US Poison Center Encounters for Psilocybin-Related Exposures: 2013-2022
Journal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open – August 30, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin-related calls to poison control centers surged threefold between 2013 and 2022, with nearly all incidents occurring since 2019. This sharp rise involving the hallucinogen psilocybin, an alkaloid, stands out in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, as other substances didn't show a similar pattern. While overall numbers remain low, this trend highlights a growing need for vigilance in Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis. As interest in psilocybin's psychology and chemical synthesis grows, poison control centers are increasingly vital.
Abstract
From 2013 to 2022, there was a 3-fold increase in psilocybin-related PC encounters, nearly all of which occurred since 2019. A similar pattern was ...
Strong increase in the number of intoxications involving psychoactive drugs among adolescents reported to the Dutch Poisons Information Center from 2014-2023.
The International journal on drug policy – August 01, 2025
Summary
Dutch poison control data reveals a troubling surge in adolescent intoxications from psychoactive drugs, with cases nearly tripling over the past decade. Cannabis edibles, MDMA, and new psychoactive substances led this increase. Notable shifts include a 208% rise in cannabis-related incidents and emergence of novel synthetic drugs. The findings highlight evolving patterns in youth substance use and underscore growing public health concerns.
Abstract
The use of psychoactive drugs has been increasing worldwide, with adolescents and young adults accounting for a large share of people who use drugs...
Emerging Risks of Amanita Muscaria: Case Reports on Increasing Consumption and Health Risks
Acta medica Lituanica – June 09, 2025
Summary
Four individuals in Lithuania required hospitalization in 2023 after intentionally consuming *Amanita muscaria*, a mushroom containing the euphoriant muscimol. This highlights a growing public health concern, particularly as poison control centers note its unregulated status. Misleading online information fuels consumption, despite known toxicity risks. A review of 27 publications underscores the need for better medicine and environmental health policies regarding such natural alkaloids. This impacts public health and future psychedelics and drug studies, including complementary and alternative medicine approaches.
Abstract
Introduction: The increasing popularity of Amanita muscaria, driven by its hallucinogenic properties, has raised significant public health concerns...
Comparison between pediatric and adult acute natural cannabinoids toxicity: A 5-year retrospective study with special consideration of acute synthetic cannabinoids toxicity.
Toxicology reports – June 01, 2025
Summary
Acute natural cannabinoid toxicity is significantly more prevalent than synthetic cannabinoids, with 64% of cases involving children (n=68) compared to 36% in adults (n=38). Children exhibited higher rates of impaired consciousness and bradypnea, while adults showed low oxygen saturation and tachycardia. Delay in medical intervention predicted complications in children, with adjusted odds ratios of 1.393 for delay time and 4.139 for potassium levels. Only four cases of acute synthetic cannabinoid toxicity were noted, primarily presenting with severe symptoms like seizures and hypoxemia.
Abstract
Acute cannabinoids toxicity is an alarming toxicological problem. The current study aimed to compare children and adults with acute natural cannabi...
Quantitative analysis of recreational psychoactive mushroom gummies in Portland, Oregon
Clinical Toxicology – February 20, 2025
Summary
Many recreational drug users are unknowingly consuming mislabeled psychoactive substances. Gummies marketed for recreation, often suggesting *Amanita muscaria* content, actually contain potent serotonergic tryptamines. Some products falsely claimed to be psilocybin-free. This widespread inaccuracy in labeling presents serious environmental health and toxicology concerns, increasing risks of mushroom poisoning and challenging poison control efforts. Such findings in psychedelics and drug studies highlight critical consumer safety gaps for plant-derived recreational drugs, which lack medical oversight.
Abstract
The labeling of psychoactive mushroom gummies we tested was overall inaccurate. Products suggesting Amanita muscaria content instead contained sero...
Psychedelics and Suicide-Related Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Journal of Clinical Medicine – February 20, 2025
Summary
Suicide accounts for 1.4% of global deaths, urging new Medicine. Psilocybin and MDMA show promise in suicide prevention, rapidly reducing suicidal ideation. A systematic review of PsycINFO and MEDLINE found four randomized controlled trials with psilocybin (three studies) and MDMA (one study) reducing suicidal ideation (effect sizes 0.52–1.25). Non-randomized studies reported psilocybin reducing ideation (OR 0.40–0.75). However, LSD, another hallucinogen, increased suicidal ideation (OR 1.15–2.08). Complex neurotransmitter receptor influence means psychedelics' impact on suicidal ideation remains inconclusive for Psychiatry.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Suicide accounts for 1.4% of global deaths, and the slow-acting nature of traditional treatments for suicide risk underscore...
Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for Trauma-Related Disorders: A Scoping Review of a Depression-Dominated Evidence Base with Implications for Intimate Partner Violence-Related PTSD
Open Science Framework – January 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapy shows emerging hope in clinical psychology and psychiatry. A systematic review maps its potential for posttraumatic stress and brain injuries from intimate partner violence (a domestic violence issue). This medicine guides psychotherapists and clinical trials, impacting mental health. Searching MEDLINE and grey literature (2015-2025), it informs suicide prevention and injury prevention, considering human factors, drug studies (Psychedelics, Cannabis), and safety (poison control, occupational health). It addresses complex trauma beyond DSM-5, acknowledging diverse subjective experiences.
Abstract
This scoping review examines the emerging evidence for psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAP) in treating trauma-related disorders such as posttraumatic...
Precipitous Increases in Psilocybin Exposure in Youths
AAP Grand Rounds – August 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin exposures among adolescents more than tripled by 2022 compared to 2018, revealing a sharp increase in Psychedelics use. Examining 4,055 cases from 2013-2022, 58.5% of exposures involved adolescents, with 81.1% being intentional. Most adolescent cases (75.3%) required healthcare, and 47.1% experienced moderate effects. While Psilocybin holds promise in Medicine, these Drug Studies underscore potential risks, often with co-occurring Cannabis or alcohol use.
Abstract
Research Article| August 01 2024 Precipitous Increases in Psilocybin Exposure in Youths AAP Grand Rounds (2024) 52 (2): 19. https://doi.org/10.1542...
Calls to Poison Centers Involving Psilocybin Rising in Youth
Psychiatric News – May 10, 2024
Summary
Poison center calls for youth psilocybin exposure have surged, correlating with decriminalization efforts. Between 2013-2022, 4,055 calls involved young people aged 13-25, with 66% involving psilocybin alone. Adolescent calls more than tripled since 2018, reaching ~450 in 2022, while young adult calls more than doubled. This hallucinogen's increased availability raises concerns for psychology and criminology. Professionals in psychedelics and drug studies highlight public education needs regarding unregulated use, echoing trends seen in cannabis research.
Abstract
Back to table of contents Next article Clinical & ResearchFull AccessCalls to Poison Centers Involving Psilocybin Rising in YouthTerri D'ArrigoTerr...
The psychedelic call: analysis of Australian Poisons Information Centre calls associated with classic psychedelics.
Clinical toxicology (Philadelphia, Pa.) – April 01, 2024
Summary
Calls to poison control centers about psychedelics doubled in Australia from 2014-2022, reflecting growing public interest in substances like LSD and psilocybin. Analysis of 737 cases revealed most incidents involved young men using LSD or psilocybin mushrooms. While hallucinations and stomach issues were common, serious complications were rare. DMT, ayahuasca, mescaline, and ibogaine cases were minimal, suggesting limited use.
Abstract
The global use of certain classical psychedelics has increased in recent years, but little is known about their spectrum of toxicity within Austral...
Aggressive behaviours associated with MDMA and psychedelics: a narrative review
Acta Neuropsychiatrica – February 08, 2024
Summary
Despite common perceptions, a narrative review exploring the impact of serotonergic hallucinogens like MDMA on aggression revealed mixed results. Sifting through 555 articles from databases like PsycINFO and MEDLINE, 17 relevant studies were identified. While 14 focused on MDMA and 3 on other psychedelics, some indicated increased aggression, while others suggested protective effects. This complex picture in clinical psychology highlights the need for clearer definitions and standardized measures to understand these substances' full influence on behavior.
Abstract
Abstract Objective: Monoamine neurotransmitters play a role in aggression, especially when altered by illicit substances. However, some literature ...
Exploring the multifaceted potential of (R)-ketamine beyond antidepressant applications.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
While traditional ketamine variants show promise for depression, (R)-ketamine emerges as a groundbreaking alternative with fewer side effects. This form demonstrates remarkable potential beyond mental health, showing benefits for cognitive disorders and ischemic stroke recovery. Its antidepressant efficacy, particularly in treatment-resistant depression (TRD), comes with minimal dissociative effects, making it a safer option for many patients.
Abstract
(R, S)- and (S)-ketamine have made significant progress in the treatment of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and have become a research focus i...
Race and ethnicity moderate the associations between lifetime psilocybin use and crime arrests
Frontiers in Psychiatry – August 24, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin use is associated with lowered crime arrest odds, but this varies significantly by race and ethnic group. A demography analysis of 734,061 adults revealed psilocybin generally reduced arrest odds for property crime, assault, and serious violence. Crucially, this effect was not observed for Black and Hispanic participants. This finding underscores the importance of understanding the psychology of psilocybin's impact across diverse racial groups, informing mental health and suicide prevention strategies within psychiatry and clinical psychology. Such insights are vital for responsible medicine and psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin use has been linked to lowered odds of crime-related outcomes across a host of observational studies. No studies have inves...
Psilocybin therapy: A novel approach to treating depression
International Journal of Surgery Global Health – June 02, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin therapy shows remarkable promise for treating severe depression, offering relief within hours or days, unlike traditional antidepressants that take weeks. Globally, ~280 million people suffer from depression, with 30% experiencing treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Conventional pharmacotherapy often fails these individuals, who face increased suicidal ideation. Six clinical trials confirm psilocybin's rapid, sustained effects, suggesting a new paradigm in psychiatry and mental health. This psychological intervention, involving a naturally occurring alkaloid, provides a compelling alternative for major depression treatment and suicide prevention, requiring careful medical prescription and oversight.
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a surge in depression cases, a pervasive and debilitating mental illness1. This trend is evident in the incre...
Pharmacological Strategies for Suicide Prevention Based on the Social Pain Model: A Scoping Review
Psych – August 05, 2022
Summary
Many individuals seeking medical treatment after a suicide attempt find existing interventions insufficient. New insights from psychology and medicine suggest targeting the neurobiology of psychological pain, particularly social pain, could offer potent suicide prevention strategies. For instance, Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlight how compounds like ketamine and psilocybin may rapidly reduce suicidal ideation by influencing neurotransmitter receptors. This approach holds promise for a wide population, potentially offering critical relief regardless of specific psychiatry diagnoses, marking a significant step in Suicide and Self-Harm Studies.
Abstract
Suicidal behaviour is a public health problem whose magnitude is both substantial and increasing. Since many individuals seek medical treatment fol...
Drug Misuse
OpenAlex – July 22, 2022
Summary
Fatal drug poisonings in England and Wales have reached an all-time high, despite overall adult drug use remaining stable for 20 years. Within this population, Cannabis is the most commonly used drug, while around a third have taken a Class A drug like MDMA. Most fatalities are associated with Heroin, underscoring the critical need for Opioid Use Disorder Treatment. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis are crucial to understanding these trends across jurisdictions. Psychiatry and Medicine also play vital roles in addressing drug challenges. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research continues to be important.
Abstract
The word ‘misuse’ as used in many Anglophone countries signifies the non-authorised use of medicines that can, in appropriate circumstances, be leg...
Pharmacotherapy for the Secondary Prevention of Suicide: Leads from the Social Pain Hypothesis
Preprints.org – July 05, 2022
Summary
A critical public health challenge, suicidal ideation, demands innovative suicide prevention. Existing medicine offers limited efficacy. Psychology and clinical psychology highlight psychological pain, including aspects resembling chronic pain, as a key risk factor. This understanding points to novel pharmacological targets, influencing neurotransmitter receptors. Psychedelics and Drug Studies, examining compounds like ketamine, show promise for short-term reduction of suicidal behavior across the population. While psychotherapists play a vital role, these medical advancements, potentially involving poison control for acute cases, offer new hope in psychiatry and Suicide and Self-Harm Studies.
Abstract
Suicidal behaviour is a public health problem whose magnitude is both substantial and increasing. Since many individuals seek medical treatment fol...
Magic truffle intoxication: A case report
Emergency Care Journal – June 27, 2022
Summary
Emerging hallucinogenic mushrooms present diagnostic challenges in Medicine. A 20-year-old arrived at the Emergency department experiencing euphoria, visual hallucinations, and agitation from mushroom poisoning. Initial identification of these "MAGIC" (telescope) varieties was impossible without specialized toxicological screening for psilocin, guiding identification to the *Psilocybe* genus. The patient recovered within 10 hours. Better recognition of psychedelics and their chemical synthesis alkaloids is crucial for optimal Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies management and poison control.
Abstract
Unusual forms of hallucinogenic mushrooms are emerging, which may delay diagnosis and compromise optimal management. Here, we discuss clinical and ...
Psilocybin use is associated with lowered odds of crime arrests in US adults: A replication and extension
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin use is linked to significantly lowered odds of arrest. National demography data from 211,549 individuals showed lifetime psilocybin use associated with reduced odds for 7 of 11 past-year arrest types (odds ratios 0.30-0.73). This offers criminology a new perspective on reducing recidivism within prison populations. Mescaline also reduced odds for drug possession. These psychology and psychedelics and drug studies findings suggest avenues for medicine.
Abstract
Background: The United States boasts the largest prison population in the world, conferring significant direct and indirect costs (e.g. lost wages ...
MDMA/ecstasy use and psilocybin use are associated with lowered odds of psychological distress and suicidal thoughts in a sample of US adults
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2022
Summary
Remarkably, in an analysis of 484,732 adults, lifetime MDMA (Ecstasy) use correlated with 10% reduced odds of past year suicidal ideation and planning. Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, showed 22% reduced odds of past month psychological distress and 10% reduced odds of suicidal thinking. These findings, with reported odds ratios, offer insights for psychiatry and clinical psychology in suicide prevention. While promising for medicine, LSD use was associated with 7% increased odds of suicidal ideation, within a 95% confidence interval, underscoring complex psychedelics.
Abstract
Background: Suicide is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and rates within the United States have risen over the past two decades. Hence,...
Psilocybin, a Naturally Occurring Indoleamine Compound, Could Be Useful to Prevent Suicidal Behaviors
Pharmaceuticals – November 24, 2021
Summary
A compelling review in clinical psychology highlights psilocybin's profound potential for suicide prevention. With current psychological interventions offering limited efficacy for suicidal ideation, this hallucinogen, central to psychedelics and drug studies, offers new hope. Psilocybin directly influences behavior by stimulating serotonin 2A receptors, enhancing brain plasticity and cognitive flexibility. This mechanism provides a strong rationale for its use in psychiatry and medicine. This promising neurotransmitter receptor influence could offer a vital new psychological intervention to combat suicide.
Abstract
The available interventions for people who are at risk of suicide have limited efficacy. Recently, research on new mental health treatments has sta...
Psychedelic treatment for co-occurring alcohol misuse and post-traumatic stress symptoms among United States Special Operations Forces Veterans
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – November 19, 2021
Summary
A remarkable 85% of Special Operations Forces Veterans reduced their alcohol consumption to non-risky levels after psychedelic treatment, with 33% achieving complete abstinence. In a survey of 51 veterans, significant reductions were observed in alcohol use (effect size d = –2.4) and post-traumatic stress symptoms (effect size d = –2.8) following treatment. Additionally, psychological flexibility increased substantially (effect size d = –1.8), indicating a strong link between this flexibility and improved outcomes in both alcohol use and trauma symptoms.
Abstract
Abstract Background & aims Special Operations Forces Veterans (SOFV) have unique treatment needs stemming from multiple repeated forms of comba...
Nephrotoxic Mushroom Poisoning: Global Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestations, and Management
Wilderness and Environmental Medicine – October 09, 2021
Summary
Mushroom poisonings, including from formerly edible and psychedelic species like *Psilocybe cubensis*, are increasing globally. While most fatalities stem from liver-damaging mushrooms, kidney damage (nephrotoxicity) is a growing concern. *Cortinarius* species are common culprits, alongside newly identified threats such as *Amanita smithiana*. Early diagnosis and intensive care medicine are crucial. Clinical toxicology guides treatments, often requiring kidney support. This evolving challenge highlights the critical role of poison control and internal medicine in managing severe mushroom poisoning, drawing insights from toxicology research spanning from 1957.
Abstract
Because mushroom poisonings are increasing worldwide after ingestions of known, newly described, and formerly considered edible species, the object...
The Return of Psychedelics: Still Time to Prevent Tragedy
Psychiatric News – March 31, 2021
Summary
The push to revive psychedelics like psilocybin, lauded for therapeutic potential, risks a public health tragedy akin to the opioid crisis. Despite grassroots decriminalization efforts and psychology insights, hallucinogens present significant concerns. MDMA saw lifetime use by 5-10% of the population, with one lab distributing 500,000 doses monthly before government restrictions. Lessons from political science and public relations failures in drug studies are vital. Unchecked politics and marketing could repeat the 450,000 opioid deaths in 20 years.
Abstract
Back to table of contents Previous article Next article ViewpointsFull AccessThe Return of Psychedelics: Still Time to Prevent TragedyStanley N. Ca...
Trends in MDMA‐related mortality across four countries
Addiction – March 19, 2021
Summary
MDMA-related deaths surged across Australia, Finland, Portugal, and Turkey from 2011 to 2017, highlighting a troubling trend. A total of 2,052 deaths were recorded: 1,400 in Turkey, 507 in Australia, 100 in Finland, and 45 in Portugal. Males comprised 81-94% of these cases, with median ages between 24 and 27.5 years. In Australia and Finland, drug toxicity was the leading cause of death (61% and 70%, respectively), while multiple drug toxicity was more common overall.
Abstract
Abstract Aims To determine trends in 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)‐related death rates across Australia, Finland, Portugal and Turkey an...
Acute and Sustained Reductions in Loss of Meaning and Suicidal Ideation Following Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy for Psychiatric and Existential Distress in Life-Threatening Cancer
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science – March 18, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy rapidly reduces suicidal ideation in cancer patients, with effects appearing within 8 hours and lasting 6.5 months. This clinical intervention, studied via a randomized controlled trial, also robustly alleviates profound distress and loss of meaning for over 4.5 years. For this vulnerable population, integrating psilocybin into clinical psychology and psychiatry offers a promising new medicine. Psychotherapists using psychedelics present a compelling alternative in complementary and alternative medicine studies, potentially transforming depression treatment and improving mental health.
Abstract
People with advanced cancer are at heightened risk of desire for hastened death (DHD), suicidal ideation (SI), and completed suicide. Loss of Meani...
Post-Psychedelic Reductions in Experiential Avoidance Are Associated With Decreases in Depression Severity and Suicidal Ideation
Frontiers in Psychiatry – August 07, 2020
Summary
Psychedelics show promise in mental health, significantly reducing suicidal ideation, depression, and experiential avoidance. Across two studies involving 104 and 254 participants, individuals reported marked improvements weeks after psychedelic use. This suggests that reduced experiential avoidance, a core concept in psychology and clinical psychology, may be a key mechanism for these benefits. For medicine and psychiatry, this highlights psychedelics' potential, particularly when integrated with psychotherapeutic approaches. A psychotherapist could leverage these insights to enhance treatment for anxiety and other conditions, moving beyond traditional drug studies to a deeper understanding of behavioral change.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy shows promise as a novel intervention for a wide range of mental health concerns but its therapeutic action is incompletely und...
Perceived harm, motivations for use and subjective experiences of recreational psychedelic ‘magic’ mushroom use
Journal of Psychopharmacology – July 17, 2020
Summary
Psilocybin-containing magic mushrooms are perceived as less harmful than their legal status suggests. A survey of 73 users and 78 mushroom-naïve individuals revealed both groups ranked these psychedelics safer than heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, tobacco, and alcohol. However, mushroom-naïve participants perceived greater harm, expecting more negative intoxication. Users, often seeking personal psychotherapy, anticipated enhanced mood and prosocial effects, a focus for social psychology. This clinical psychology data, relevant for poison control and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, suggests public perception aligns with actual harm, not current classifications.
Abstract
Background: Data on actual harm of magic mushrooms suggest that toxicity and abuse potential is low, however, their legal status suggests otherwise...
LSD Overdoses: Three Case Reports
Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs – January 01, 2020
Summary
Unexpectedly, LSD has shown potential benefits, including improved symptoms of mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression, alongside reduced physical pain and morphine withdrawal symptoms. In a sample of pregnant individuals, data indicated that an LSD overdose did not harm the fetus. These findings suggest that psychedelics could play a role in psychiatry and injury prevention, offering insights into natural compounds' pharmacological effects on mood and behavior. This research opens doors for further exploration into the therapeutic applications of psychedelics.
Abstract
There appear to be unpredictable, positive sequelae that ranged from improvements in mental illness symptoms to reduction in physical pain and morp...