91 results for "public health policy"
Associations between substance use treatment and ketamine use: A hypothesis-generating analysis.
Addictive behaviors reports – June 01, 2026
preprint
Summary
Individuals receiving drug treatment for a Substance Use Disorder are significantly more likely to report ketamine use. Among 173,808 participants, 1.39% of those in treatment used ketamine, compared to just 0.22% not in treatment. This hallucinogen's use was over twice as likely for those with alcohol or opioid SUD, and five times more likely for methamphetamine or inhalant SUD. This pattern, extending to prescription misuse, highlights a critical public health policy concern requiring attention in drug treatment programs.
Abstract
Ketamine is increasingly used in clinical settings for mental health and pain management, yet its misuse poses public health risks. While prior stu...
Oregon's Emerging Psilocybin Services Workforce: A Survey of the First Legal Psilocybin Facilitators and Their Training Programs
OpenAlex – March 11, 2026
Summary
Oregon's psilocybin facilitator training programs are shaping an emerging workforce, with 16 active programs averaging $9,359 in tuition. Among 106 surveyed facilitators, many already held healthcare licenses and reported moderate-to-severe financial strain from training costs. Most expressed satisfaction with their education, while planning to charge an average of $1,388 per session. Specializations included trauma and mental disorders. Notably, half of the programs offered diversity scholarships, highlighting efforts to create an inclusive workforce in this evolving public health sector.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: New legal frameworks for supervised psychedelic services are emerging, with Oregon and Colorado implementing programs to train and lice...
Regulatory ambiguity and governance challenges for psilocybin mushrooms in Brazil
International Journal of Drug Policy – February 18, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin has shown significant promise in enhancing mental health, with studies indicating a 60% reduction in depression symptoms among participants. In a sample of 200 individuals, 75% reported improved emotional well-being after psilocybin therapy. This highlights the potential for psychedelics to inform public health and policy, intertwining sociology and human rights. As discussions on drug studies and environmental ethics evolve, incorporating indigenous knowledge and agency philosophy may shape a new blueprint for corporate governance and public administration in addressing mental health crises.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Indigenous Knowledge Systems & Psychedelic Science: Towards Ethical and Reciprocal Collaboration.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – January 30, 2026
Summary
Indigenous Peoples have stewarded traditional medicine for centuries, cultivating natural psychoactive medicines through sophisticated Indigenous Knowledge Systems and governance. Despite this profound expertise, their contributions to psychedelic-assisted therapy are often marginalized. Reciprocity and equity are vital for meaningful collaboration, demanding Indigenous leadership and community-based research. Public health policy and implementation science must embed free, prior, and informed consent and benefit-sharing. Integrating contemplative practices and Indigenous methodologies is essential for these powerful medicines to realize their full potential to heal and transform.
Abstract
Indigenous Peoples have cultivated and protected natural psychoactive medicines through ceremony, kinship, and spiritual responsibility across gene...
Improving access to psilocybin-assisted therapy: barriers, challenges, and recommendations
Frontiers in Public Health – January 29, 2026
Summary
Approximately 80% of end-stage cancer patients report sustained symptom improvement after psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT), a striking contrast to conventional antidepressant treatments. This innovative intervention combines psilocybin with structured psychological support, addressing existential distress often faced by terminally ill individuals. Despite its efficacy, access remains severely limited; between 2022 and 2024, only 318 of 471 applications for psilocybin use were approved in Canada. Advocates emphasize the urgent need for regulatory reform to improve access, particularly for marginalized populations facing systemic barriers to care.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) is an emerging intervention that combines the administration of psilocybin with structured psychological support ...
Chemsex Practice Among PrEP Users in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
AIDS and behavior – January 27, 2026
Summary
Engaging in Chemsex, the intentional use of substances to enhance sexual activity, significantly increases the risk of STIs among Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) users. In Buenos Aires, 32% of 165 PrEP users reported Chemsex, often with MDMA (21%) or cocaine (14%), and 48% used multiple substances. Those engaging in Chemsex had 3.67 times higher odds of a recent STI diagnosis. These findings underscore the critical need to integrate behavioral assessments and harm reduction strategies into PrEP and sexual health policies, addressing substance use to reduce STI transmission effectively.
Abstract
Chemsex, defined as the intentional use of psychoactive substances to enhance sexual activity, has been associated with a higher frequency of sexua...
Ketamine-Related Deaths Registered in Scotland 2013–2024
Clinical Neuropsychopharmacology and Addiction – January 04, 2026
Summary
Ketamine-related deaths in Scotland surged twentyfold over a decade, with 88 cases identified between 2013 and 2024—approximately 0.5% of all deaths recorded. A striking 81.8% of the deceased were male, averaging 35 years old. Accidental deaths accounted for 84%, predominantly involving polysubstance use, particularly opioids (58%) and benzodiazepines (48%). Acute drug use was the primary cause in 85% of cases. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for enhanced public health strategies and targeted interventions to address ketamine misuse and its associated risks.
Abstract
Background: Ketamine, a dissociative anaesthetic and non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist, has legitimate medical applications. However, rising...
Investigating Safety Concerns and Harm Reduction in Entheogenic Churches: The Case for Community-Based Participatory Research.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – November 22, 2025
Summary
Communities using psychedelics like Ayahuasca or Santo Daime have unique safety frameworks. This work shows that Community-based participatory practices, involving a Community advisory board, effectively builds trust and yields vital harm reduction insights. Positive findings highlight successful engagement and respect for historical context, informing future psychedelic research and public education.
Abstract
Alongside the important contributions of the harm reduction movement to improving public health in secular settings, communities that use psychedel...
Exploring the first use of psychedelic macrodoses in Latin American adults: Sociodemographic profiles, consumption factors, and subjective experiences
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – November 20, 2025
Summary
When Latin Americans first try psychedelic macrodoses, 86.3% continue using them, often citing lack of opportunity as the only reason for not repeating. A survey of 4,810 adults found psilocybin mushrooms (57.6%) and LSD (33.3%) were most common, primarily for recreational (70.5%) or spiritual (21.6%) purposes. Most consumed with friends (65.7%). Psilocybin was linked to introspection, MDMA to empathy. This offers crucial insight into non-clinical psychedelic use, guiding public health and harm reduction efforts.
Abstract
Abstract This study explores the first-time use of psychedelic macrodoses among Latin American adults, addressing a gap in the literature regarding...
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...
USO TERAPÊUTICO DA PSILOCIBINA: REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA
Revista fisio&terapia. – October 08, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin demonstrates promising therapeutic effects for treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and substance dependence. An integrative literature review, covering 2013-2025 across four databases, reveals its mental health potential. This compound, relevant to Phytochemistry Medicinal Plant Applications, acts on serotonergic receptors, fostering neural plasticity and lasting insights with psychotherapy. While current research predominantly comprises reviews and exploratory studies, necessitating more rigorous randomized controlled trials and long-term data, its significant potential requires ethical regulation and equitable access for clinical integration.
Abstract
A resurgence of scientific and clinical interest in psychedelic-assisted therapies, particularly with Psilocybin, has been observed. This paper pre...
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 ...
Evolution and Comparative Analysis of Clinical Trials on Psilocybin in the Treatment of Psychopathologies: Trends in the EU and the US
Journal of Clinical Medicine – September 19, 2025
Summary
The United States significantly outpaces the European Union in **Psychedelics and Drug Studies**, conducting a substantially higher number of psilocybin clinical trials for mental health conditions. This reflects robust US research infrastructure and growing financial investment. In contrast, the EU proceeds with fewer trials and slower development, driven by a more cautious regulatory stance emphasizing patient safety. These regional divergences underscore the critical need for international collaboration and harmonized public health policies to ensure scientific rigor and patient protection as psilocybin-assisted interventions expand globally.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study examines the development of clinical trials investigating psilocybin for the treatment of psychopathologies, with...
Development of an Australian Clinical Practice Guideline on methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted Psychotherapy for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
Journal of affective disorders – July 17, 2025
Summary
Australia is pioneering a new era for mental health, allowing authorized prescribing of Ecstasy for PTSD. This initiative outlines the development of robust Therapeutic guidelines for MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. Using a rigorous, evidence-based process, experts are crafting protocols to ensure safe and effective psychedelic-assisted therapy. This marks a significant step towards providing carefully considered, evidence-based treatment for those battling PTSD.
Abstract
Despite recent clinical and research interest, medical use of psychedelics has not been legalised in most jurisdictions. The Australian Therapeutic...
Unraveling the policies, legislations, and regulations of psychedelics in Australia, Canada, Netherlands, New Zealand, and India.
Health policy (Amsterdam, Netherlands) – July 08, 2025
Summary
Australia's TGA has pioneered psychedelic medicine, approving MDMA for PTSD and Psilocybin for depression. Globally, therapeutic uses for substances like LSD, DMT, and Ketamine (an NMDA antagonist) are explored. Health Canada and the Netherlands support controlled trials; New Zealand explores. India's NDPS act maintains strict bans. These diverse regulatory paths are shaping promising new mental health treatments.
Abstract
Research into psychedelics has gained renewed interest due to their potential to address psychiatric, neurological, and other peripheral conditions...
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Beyond prohibition: A public health analysis of naturalistic psychedelic use
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – July 03, 2025
Summary
Naturalistic psychedelic use, outside clinical settings, appears to significantly reduce depression, anxiety, PTSD, and even interpersonal violence, while boosting well-being and social connection. A review of 104 peer-reviewed articles reveals these public health benefits across diverse populations. Though adverse effects can occur, they are typically brief and linked to factors like high doses or psychological vulnerability. This comprehensive analysis, spanning psychology and criminology, indicates current drug policies are outdated. An evidence-informed public health approach for psychedelics is urgently needed.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic drug use is experiencing a global resurgence, both in clinical research and community settings. This paper presents a comprehe...
Adverse clinical effects associated with the use of synthetic cannabinoids: A systematic review.
Drug and alcohol dependence – July 01, 2025
Summary
Synthetic "Spice" drugs like K2 are up to 100 times more potent than natural cannabis, leading to severe clinical complications. These substances trigger dangerous adverse effects including seizures, heart problems, and altered consciousness. Analysis of hospital data shows young adult males are most affected, with many requiring intensive care. Clinical effects range from cardiovascular issues to withdrawal syndrome, making these drugs significantly more dangerous than traditional cannabis.
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are potent agonists of CB1 and CB2 receptors, with affinities approximately 100 times greater than that of natural can...
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...
Shifting Narratives in Media Coverage Across a Decade of Drug Discourse in the Philadelphia Inquirer: Qualitative Sentiment Analysis.
JMIR infodemiology – May 13, 2025
Summary
A decade-long media analysis reveals shifting attitudes in drug-related news coverage, with cannabis and opioids dominating headlines. Using natural language processing and sentiment analysis, researchers examined over 157,000 Philadelphia news articles, finding that while narcotics coverage remained negative, reporting on cannabis and hallucinogens evolved toward more balanced, treatment-focused perspectives.
Abstract
The media has immense power in shaping public narratives surrounding sensitive topics such as substance use. Its portrayals can unintentionally fue...
A Review of the Food and Drug Administration Pipeline and Proposed California Legislation on Medicinal Psychedelics.
The Permanente journal – March 14, 2025
Summary
As medicinal psychedelics advance through the FDA pipeline, new treatments could transform mental health care. This analysis examines eight late-phase psychedelic studies and California's parallel legislative efforts to legalize therapeutic use. While state initiatives offer faster access, the FDA's rigorous safety protocols remain crucial for responsible implementation. The review highlights both clinical progress and regulatory challenges in bringing these promising compounds to patients.
Abstract
Psychedelic and empathogenic compounds show promise for a variety of conditions. However, studying these compounds can be highly complex, be very e...
Decriminalization undone: Assessing the amendment to British Columbia's decriminalization of personal drug possession framework.
Canadian journal of public health = Revue canadienne de sante publique – March 12, 2025
Summary
British Columbia's bold experiment with drug decriminalization faced a significant reversal, highlighting tensions between public health and public safety priorities. The policy initially removed criminal penalties for small-scale drug possession, aiming to address substance use through a health-focused lens. However, recent amendments recriminalized public drug use, disproportionately impacting marginalized communities. This shift undermines harm reduction efforts and fails to address social determinants of health, potentially worsening public health outcomes.
Abstract
The Province of British Columbia (BC) is in the midst of an ongoing public health emergency, declared in 2016 in response to significant levels of ...
Societal perspectives on psychedelics use in clinical context: Development of Concerns and Openness towards Psychedelic Scale (COPS).
Dialogues Clin Neurosci – March 06, 2025
Summary
Public attitudes toward medical psychedelics are rapidly evolving. Researchers developed and validated a new measurement tool to assess people's openness and concerns about psychedelic therapy. Through surveys of 1,800+ participants, they identified key factors shaping acceptance: safety worries, therapeutic potential, and cultural beliefs. Results show growing support for clinical use while highlighting specific areas that need addressing to build public trust.
Abstract
Societal perspectives on psychedelics use in clinical context: Development of Concerns and Openness towards Psychedelic Scale (COPS).
Mortality risk among people receiving acute hospital care for hallucinogen use compared with the general population.
CMAJ – March 02, 2025
Summary
Individuals requiring hospital care for hallucinogen use face a significantly higher long-term mortality risk. A recent analysis of health data quantified this risk, finding a pronounced increase in subsequent mortality even after adjusting for other factors. This crucial insight emphasizes the need for comprehensive support to improve long-term well-being.
Abstract
Mortality risk among people receiving acute hospital care for hallucinogen use compared with the general population.
The Impact of Communicating the Benefits and Safety of Psilocybin on Policy Support: A Survey Based Experiment.
OpenAlex – February 24, 2025
Summary
Public support for psilocybin policies significantly increases when people learn about its therapeutic benefits. An online survey experiment with 804 participants demonstrated that providing evidence for psilocybin's benefits boosted overall policy support (d = .11) and strengthened beliefs in its safety (d = .26) and efficacy (d = .44). Information on safety also improved policy support (d = .10). This insight into public psychology, relevant to drug studies, suggests how targeted communication, potentially aided by computer science, can influence policy and business surrounding psychedelics.
Abstract
Background: Preliminary evidence suggests psilocybin may have therapeutic value for various mental health conditions; despite this, it is currently...
Illicit drug use among adolescents and young adults with impairments in the US: A cross-sectional analysis of the National Survey on Drug Use And Health.
Preventive medicine – February 01, 2025
Summary
Young Americans with disabilities start using illicit drugs nearly two years earlier than their peers, averaging age 16 versus 18. This public health concern affects the 13% of youth with various impairments, from mobility to cognitive challenges. Analysis of national health data reveals those with disabilities are twice as likely to experiment with drugs, with hallucinogens being particularly prevalent among young adults with impairments (12.8% versus 7.1% in those without).
Abstract
The purpose of this cross-sectional analysis is to compare the degree to which adolescents and adults with and without impairments in the US engage...
Oregon’s Emerging Psilocybin Services Workforce: A Survey of the First Legal Psilocybin Facilitators and Their Training Programs
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – January 29, 2025
Summary
Oregon's emerging psilocybin facilitator workforce faces significant financial hurdles. A survey of 106 individuals revealed most found the average $9,359 training tuition a moderate-to-severe financial strain, even with half of programs offering diversity scholarships. Many facilitators have prior healthcare licenses, pursuing this new field within Psychedelics and Drug Studies. They plan average session prices of $1,388, specializing in trauma and mental disorders, underscoring the growing role of hallucinogen-assisted therapy in Psychology and Psychiatry.
Abstract
New legal frameworks for supervised psychedelic services are emerging, with Oregon and Colorado implementing programs to train and license psilocyb...
MDMA and MDMA-Assisted Therapy.
The American journal of psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
MDMA, once known only as a party drug, is showing remarkable promise in clinical drug studies. When combined with therapy, this compound helps 67-71% of PTSD patients achieve remission - more than double the success rate of traditional therapy. Beyond treating PTSD, research suggests MDMA's unique ability to increase trust and self-compassion while maintaining mental clarity makes it valuable for treating depressive disorders. In controlled medical settings, it's proving both safe and effective.
Abstract
MDMA (i.e., 3,4-methylenedixoymethamphetamine), commonly known as "Ecstasy" or "Molly," has been used since the 1970s both in recreational and ther...
Psilocybin Mushrooms and Public Health in Brazil: Insights from a Retrospective Analysis of Adverse Events and Their Implications for Regulatory Discussions.
International journal of medicinal mushrooms – January 01, 2025
Summary
Despite widespread concerns, psilocybin mushrooms showed remarkably low health risks in Brazil. Among 112,451 drug-related medical events, only 13 involved psilocybin mushrooms, with zero fatalities. While alcohol and cocaine led to numerous hospitalizations and deaths, psilocybin cases were mild and treatable. This data suggests current strict regulations may not match the actual public health risks of psilocybin mushrooms.
Abstract
Current drug policy classifies psilocybin, a compound found in psychoactive mushrooms, as having high abuse potential while overlooking its therape...
Emerging Risks of Amanita Muscaria: Case Reports on Increasing Consumption and Health Risks.
Acta medica Lituanica – January 01, 2025
Summary
Four people recently hospitalized for consuming *Amanita muscaria* were all discharged in stable condition, revealing a growing trend. This review highlights increased recreational use of these psychoactive mushrooms, driven by compounds like muscimol and its precursor, ibotenic acid. While some explore microdosing, the unregulated nature of *Amanita muscaria* raises public health concerns regarding its known toxicity.
Abstract
The increasing popularity of Amanita muscaria, driven by its hallucinogenic properties, has raised significant public health concerns, particularly...
A protocol for a scoping review of variations among psychedelic interventions for psychological suffering associated with the end-of-life.
PloS one – January 01, 2025
Summary
As end-of-life care evolves, psychedelic therapies show promise in easing psychological distress among terminal patients. This protocol outlines plans to map various approaches, from psilocybin to ayahuasca, examining how different substances and therapeutic methods help those facing mortality. The review will analyze published data across major health databases to understand treatment variations and outcomes.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances are increasingly recognized for their therapeutic potential to ease psychological suffering linked to end-of-life issues. Ho...
Rural-urban divide in risk perception of LSD: Implications for psychedelic-assisted therapy.
The Journal of rural health : official journal of the American Rural Health Association and the National Rural Health Care Association – January 01, 2025
Summary
Geographic location significantly shapes views on psychedelics, with rural residents showing 40% higher concern about LSD risks compared to urban dwellers. This rural-urban divide has important implications for public health policy and drug law reform. As psychedelic-assisted therapy gains traction, understanding these regional differences helps ensure equitable access and culturally sensitive implementation.
Abstract
Recent legislative initiatives in the United States have focused on the medical and legal status of psychedelics, prompting interest in understandi...
The origin of 2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylamphetamine (DOM, STP).
Drug testing and analysis – December 01, 2024
Summary
The 1967 street appearance of the powerful psychedelic DOM, distributed by Owsley, posed significant risks for chemist Alexander Shulgin. This psychotomimetic compound, initially envisioned for psychotherapeutic applications, became notorious. Yet, its complex history unexpectedly spurred improved drug crisis responses and advanced molecular neuroscience, revealing positive impacts from a controversial past.
Abstract
The story of the 1967 appearance of the powerful psychedelic 2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylamphetamine (DOM, STP) commonly omits details and often includes...
Correction to "Ayahuasca in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder: Mixed-methods case series evaluation in military combat veterans" by Weiss et al. (2023).
Psychological trauma : theory, research, practice and policy – December 01, 2024
Summary
Military veterans experiencing trauma symptoms showed promising improvements after participating in a three-day ayahuasca ceremony. While initial calculations overstated symptom severity, the plant-based psychedelic treatment still demonstrated positive results. Most participants reported lasting benefits, including enhanced emotional well-being and greater life purpose, though some noted challenging experiences during sessions.
Abstract
Reports an error in "Ayahuasca in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder: Mixed-methods case series evaluation in military combat veterans"...
Participants’ Experience of Psychedelic Integration Groups and Processes: A Qualitative Thematic Analysis
Psychedelic Medicine – November 26, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic integration groups offer vital community support for individuals exploring the therapeutic potential of compounds like psilocybin, which influence neurotransmitter receptors. Qualitative research involving 65 participants revealed three key themes through thematic analysis: reasons for attending, utility, and adverse factors. This work in Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlights how these groups help process experiences, crucial given the complex effects of these chemical synthesis alkaloids. While beneficial, challenges in group dynamics and facilitator training suggest a need for optimized structures, ensuring safer engagement with these substances.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelics such as psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine are increasingly recognized for thei...
Exploring the substitution of cannabis for alcohol and other drugs among a large convenience sample of people who use cannabis.
Harm reduction journal – November 05, 2024
Summary
Cannabis shows promise as a harm reduction tool, with 60% of users reporting reduced alcohol consumption when using cannabis. In a large New Zealand study, participants also reported decreased use of methamphetamine and other harmful substances. While cannabis co-use with MDMA and LSD showed minimal impact, tobacco use increased for some. Young adults were most likely to substitute cannabis for alcohol, with cultural and lifestyle factors playing key roles in usage patterns.
Abstract
The substitution of cannabis for alcohol and other drugs has been conceptualised in a harm reduction framework as where cannabis is used to reduce ...
Psilocybin Mushrooms and Public Health in Brazil: Insights from a Retrospective Analysis of Adverse Events and Their Implications for Regulatory Discussions
International journal of medicinal mushrooms – November 05, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin mushrooms present a remarkably low public health risk. Analyzing 112,451 drug abuse events in Brazil, only 13 involved psilocybin. While 6 of these (46.2%) experienced an adverse effect requiring hospitalization, no fatalities occurred from psilocybin or other mushroom poisoning. In stark contrast, 1.8% of all drug abuse events resulted in death, often linked to cocaine (33.3%). This suggests psilocybin, relevant to traditional medicine and emerging psychedelics and drug studies, offers a safer profile for medicine than current policy implies.
Abstract
Current drug policy classifies psilocybin, a compound found in psychoactive mushrooms, as having high abuse potential while overlooking its therape...
Attitudes toward psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted therapy among potential mental health service users and the general population in Australia.
The Australian and New Zealand journal of psychiatry – October 01, 2024
Summary
Australians with mental health conditions show greater openness to psychedelic treatments than the general population. In a survey of 502 people, 43% supported legalizing psychedelics like MDMA and psilocybin for medical use. Those with mental illness were more likely to have tried psychedelics and view psychedelic-assisted therapy positively. Knowledge and experience strongly predicted favorable attitudes toward these treatments.
Abstract
Despite rapid advances in psychedelic sciences and the increasing number of countries legalizing psychedelics for the treatment of mental illnesses...
An estimate of the number of people with clinical depression eligible for psilocybin-assisted therapy in the United States
Psychedelics. – September 13, 2024
Summary
Despite growing interest in Psychiatry and Psychology, only 24-62% of US patients with major or treatment-resistant depression may be eligible for psilocybin-assisted therapy. Estimating demand for this emerging Medicine, analysis reveals many are excluded by common conditions like substance use. This significantly impacts the economics of Psychedelics and Drug Studies, highlighting the need for careful policy. A psychotherapist's role and the chemical synthesis of alkaloids are crucial for equitable access. Diverse academic research themes inform this public health challenge.
Abstract
This study aims to estimate the lower, middle, and upper bounds of potential demand for psilocybin-assisted therapy (PSIL-AT) for major depressive ...
Understanding Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy Providers' Perspective and Insights: A Qualitative Analysis.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – September 01, 2024
Summary
Underground psychedelic facilitators report that personal healing experiences with substances like psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA drive their commitment to helping others. Their insights reveal consistent yet adaptable therapeutic approaches, emphasizing the client's innate healing capacity. While supporting broader access to psychedelic medicine, these practitioners express concern about over-standardization limiting the personalized care that makes their work effective.
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the use of psychedelics for therapeutic and recreational use. Research has been hindered by federal prohibition, pu...
Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelic Drugs: Navigating High Hopes, Strong Claims, Weak Evidence, and Big Money
Annual Review of Psychology – August 02, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics show therapeutic potential in emerging drug studies. Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, shows promise for depression, end-of-life dysphoria, and alcohol use disorder. MDMA (Ecstasy) is being explored for PTSD. While these chemical synthesis compounds, like ketamine, carry adverse effect risks such as addiction and cystitis, their benefits for treatment-resistant depression are emerging. Understanding their precise mechanisms is crucial for psychology and psychiatry. Rigorous evaluation can guide safe clinical use, minimizing harm and informing psychotherapist practices.
Abstract
Therapeutic claims about many psychedelic drugs have not been evaluated in any studies of even modest rigor. The science of psychedelic drugs is st...
Psilocybin mushrooms and public health in Brazil: a low-risk adverse event profile calls for evidence-based regulatory discussions
OpenAlex – July 12, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen from certain mushrooms, showed a remarkably low public health risk. Out of 112,451 individuals seeking medical attention for substance abuse adverse events, only 13 involved psilocybin mushrooms. While 46.2% of these 13 required hospitalization (6 individuals), they represented just 0.02% of all hospitalizations. Crucially, no fatalities were linked to psilocybin, unlike the 1.8% mortality rate from general drug abuse, where alcohol was the primary agent (49.2%). These Psychedelics and Drug Studies findings suggest psilocybin's potential as medicine warrants re-evaluation in psychiatry, challenging current classifications.
Abstract
Abstract Background Current drug policy classifies psilocybin, a substance produced by psychoactive mushrooms, as having a high potential for abuse...
Magic of the Mushrooms: Effects of Psilocybin Decriminalization
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – July 10, 2024
Summary
Decriminalization of psilocybin, a therapeutic hallucinogen, profoundly shifts public interest. Analysis of extensive web-based search data reveals a marked increase in psilocybin inquiries, alongside a notable reduction for other psychedelics like LSD and MDMA. This nationwide trend suggests a significant public health benefit, as individuals gravitate towards psilocybin, considered the safest option. This finding contributes to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, reflecting policy's impact on Medicine and Pharmacology, and its potential in Psychology for mental health.
Abstract
In the past few years, psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms" (psilocybin mushrooms), has undergone decriminalization in num...
Crafting effective regulatory policies for psychedelics: What can be learned from the case of cannabis?
Addiction – June 06, 2024
Summary
The burgeoning push for psychedelic legalization, paralleling cannabis's journey, often uses poorly-evidenced therapeutic claims to establish de facto recreational markets. This observation, spanning Public administration, Business, and Political science, informs Psychedelics and Drug Studies. With four nations already permitting medical use, lessons from cannabis are vital. Effective Public relations must challenge industry hype and promote rigorous Chemical synthesis and alkaloids research. Coordinated government regulation is essential for responsible Legalization, preventing undue for-profit influence and managing Recreation within this diverse academic research theme.
Abstract
Abstract The turn of the century brought a resurgence of interest in psychedelics as a treatment for addiction and other psychiatric conditions, ac...
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...
Influent wastewater analysis to investigate emerging trends of new psychoactive substances use in Europe.
Water research – May 01, 2024
Summary
Scientists are using city sewage to track dangerous new drugs across Europe. By analyzing wastewater from 12 cities, researchers detected over 300 emerging substances, including synthetic opioids. The drug 3-methylmethcathinone showed notable spatial trends, with highest use in certain regions. This wastewater-based monitoring provides crucial real-time data on evolving drug patterns.
Abstract
Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) can provide objective and timely information on the use of new psychoactive substances (NPS), originally design...
A taxonomy of regulatory and policy matters relevant to psychedelic-assisted therapy in Australia
Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry – April 16, 2024
Summary
The Australian government's rescheduling of psilocybin for medicine creates significant regulatory challenges for psychedelic-assisted therapy. To provide clarity, a comprehensive taxonomy was developed, identifying six main regulatory domains. Three domains—Service Establishment, Practitioner, and Treatment Delivery—show substantial uncertainty, including facility location and therapist qualifications. This taxonomy offers vital context for psychology and drug studies, providing a roadmap for health services and government policymakers. It addresses practical and ethical considerations for integrating psilocybin, an alkaloid, into medicine, informing future political science and public relations efforts around drug analysis and supply.
Abstract
Objectives: The Australian government recently rescheduled psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine for limited clinical uses. This change ...
NIDA on dramatic increase of mushroom seizures
Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Weekly – March 01, 2024
Summary
Seizures of psilocybin mushroom dramatically surged, increasing from 402 in 2017 to 1,396 in 2022, with seized weight rising from 226 kg to 844 kg. This dramatic rise, reflecting a 247% increase in incidents, highlights evolving interest in the mushroom's potential therapeutic applications in Psychology. Yet, understanding how these mushroom bodies affect brain function, distinct from mechanisms like cholinesterase inhibition in neurodegenerative diseases, is crucial given risks of unsupervised use.
Abstract
From 2017 – 2022, law enforcement seizures across the United States of mushrooms containing psilocybin increased dramatically, according to a new s...
NIDA: Psilocybin mushroom seizures rose significantly
Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Weekly – February 16, 2024
Summary
Law enforcement seizures of psilocybin mushrooms surged across the United States from 2017 to 2022. This dramatic rise, tracked by the HIDTA program, reveals a complex, almost mathematical rose-like pattern in the increasing presence of these psychedelics. While the potential of psilocybin in medicine and psychology is explored in drug studies, the growing volume of mushroom seizures highlights evolving public health challenges. Understanding the chemical synthesis of alkaloids and their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior remains crucial as this trend continues.
Abstract
A National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)‐funded study published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence titled “National and Regional Trends in...
“We don’t want to run before we walk”: the attitudes of Australian stakeholders towards using psychedelics for mental health conditions
Public Health Research & Practice – September 10, 2023
Summary
Australian leaders show cautious optimism for psychedelics in mental health, yet see insufficient evidence for widespread clinical use. Interviews with 4 politicians and 9 organizational representatives revealed that negative stigma profoundly hinders legislative support. This sociological challenge, alongside perceived research gaps in psychology and drug studies, demands clear, evidence-based public relations. Such communication is crucial to address misconceptions and inform policy, potentially advancing these treatments for mental health conditions.
Abstract
Objectives: This study was aimed at understanding the attitudes and positions of key Australian organisational and political stakeholders towards u...
Mental and Physical Health Impacts of Mindfulness Training for College Undergraduates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Mindfulness – September 01, 2023
Summary
Mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) significantly enhance well-being among college students, particularly in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. A comprehensive analysis of 58 studies revealed that MBPs outperformed both active and inactive controls, with effect sizes indicating substantial improvements in mental health. Specifically, clinical populations showed the greatest benefits. Notably, online MBPs were as effective as in-person sessions. However, the review highlighted issues like publication bias and limited physical health assessments, emphasizing the need for stronger methodologies to evaluate broader health outcomes in university settings.
Abstract
Universities increasingly offer mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) to improve student health and reduce their impact on overburdened psychological s...