Research
The phenomenology of psychedelic therapy
Philosophy of Psychedelics – August 01, 2021
Summary
Psychedelic therapy often unlocks profound psychological insight and beneficial self-perception. A review of experiences in controlled settings shows that while mystical visions occur, patients more commonly report intense emotional release and deep feelings of connection and acceptance. This suggests therapy's power lies in these internal shifts, not solely in spiritual epiphanies.
Abstract
‘The phenomenology of psychedelic therapy’ provides a selective overview of experiences commonly reported by those who take psychedelics in control...
Psilocybin for Depression. Reply.
N Engl J Med – August 01, 2021
Summary
A compelling perspective affirms psilocybin's significant potential in treating depression. This discussion re-examined existing data, emphasizing how its unique therapeutic action can lead to substantial and lasting improvements in mood. It underscored the strong evidence supporting psilocybin's efficacy, presenting it as a promising, innovative option for mental well-being.
Abstract
Psilocybin for Depression. Reply.
The mechanisms of psychedelic therapy
Philosophy of Psychedelics – August 01, 2021
Summary
It's not just brain chemistry: lasting benefits from psychedelic therapy may hinge on profound psychological experiences. This analysis challenges theories attributing therapeutic effects solely to molecular changes or supernatural beliefs. Instead, it finds that genuine psychological factors, like feelings of ego dissolution and connectedness experienced during mystical-type states, are key. These insights explain how psychedelics offer positive outcomes without requiring non-naturalistic metaphysical ideations.
Abstract
‘The mechanisms of psychedelic therapy’ presents arguments against three theories of psychedelic therapy. The Molecular Neuroplasticity Theory ascr...
Mystical Experience with Cancer Patients: Insights from Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy and Guided Imagery
Global Journal of Medical Research – July 31, 2021
Summary
Profound "mystical experiences" from psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy directly correlate with alleviating cancer-related distress. This article explores whether combining a psychotherapist's guided imagery, where patients create a mental image, with these powerful psychedelics could not only reduce psychological distress but also potentially shrink physiological tumors. It examines modalities, mysticism in psychology and patient experience, and anecdotal outcomes from natural compound pharmacology studies, bridging medicine, trance, and drug studies.
Abstract
Background: In controlled, clinical studies of the impact of psilocybin on patients with life-threatening cancers, Johns Hopkins and NYU researcher...
The Pharmacological Profile of Second Generation Pyrovalerone Cathinones and Related Cathinone Derivative
International Journal of Molecular Sciences – July 31, 2021
Summary
In Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, certain Cathinone derivatives show extreme Potency, primarily targeting the Dopamine transporter. These pyrovalerone compounds, relevant in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, exhibit IC50 values as low as 0.02 μM for dopamine uptake inhibition, demonstrating significant Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior. Chemistry reveals they largely ignore the Serotonin transporter, showing no Serotonin Transporter activity below 10 μM. For instance, 4F-PBP and NEH exhibit high selectivity for the Dopamine transporter (DAT/SERT ratio 264–356). This Pharmacology suggests strong psychostimulant effects from these Monoamine neurotransmitter inhibitors.
Abstract
Pyrovalerone cathinones are potent psychoactive substances that possess a pyrrolidine moiety. Pyrovalerone-type novel psychoactive substances (NPS)...
The Potential Role of Serotonergic Hallucinogens in Depression Treatment
Life – July 29, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, demonstrates remarkable promise for treating depressive symptoms. A review of 14 clinical trials from the last 10 years in Psychedelics and Drug Studies found this serotonergic compound, derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, significantly reduced depression. One study even showed psilocybin's efficacy comparable to escitalopram, a standard medicine. No serious adverse effect was reported. This Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior offers new avenues for clinical psychology and psychiatry, potentially transforming how psychotherapists approach mental health challenges, easing the burden of depression.
Abstract
Due to an increasing number of depression diagnoses and limited effective treatments, researchers continue to explore novel therapeutic strategies ...
Psychedelics for Brain Injury: A Mini-Review.
Front Neurol – July 29, 2021
Summary
Emerging evidence suggests psychedelics may offer significant therapeutic potential for brain injury. A review of research explored how these compounds could aid recovery by promoting neuroplasticity and exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties. Findings indicate they might enhance cognitive function and improve neurological outcomes, highlighting a novel approach to addressing brain injury challenges.
Abstract
Psychedelics for Brain Injury: A Mini-Review.
Serotonin Heteroreceptor Complexes and Their Integration of Signals in Neurons and Astroglia—Relevance for Mental Diseases
Cells – July 27, 2021
Summary
Novel heteroreceptor complexes reveal a fundamental biological principle for brain signal integration, profoundly impacting neuroscience and mental health. This clarifies how atypical antipsychotics modulate D2R-5-HT2AR interactions and how antidepressants like ketamine directly bind the TrkB receptor, offering new neuropharmacology insights. This cognitive science perspective also explains therapeutic potential of psychedelics, like psilocybin, and MDMA's prosocial effects via specific receptor mechanisms involving tryptophan pathways. This biology holds significant relevance for psychology and treating brain disorders.
Abstract
The heteroreceptor complexes present a novel biological principle for signal integration. These complexes and their allosteric receptor–receptor in...
Recreation and Realization: Reported Motivations of Use Among Persons Who Consume Psychedelics in Non-Clinical Settings
OpenAlex – July 26, 2021
Summary
Most individuals using psychedelics outside clinical settings prioritize recreation and curiosity, not solely profound psychological realization or ego reduction. Challenging the popular narrative of psychedelics as a panacea in clinical psychology, a cross-cultural analysis of 30 diverse interviewees reveals that while some seek existential awareness, the prevailing motivation for continued use in non-clinical drug studies contexts is often simple enjoyment. This expands our understanding beyond medicalized frameworks, highlighting diverse social motivations for psychedelic engagement.
Abstract
Psychedelic research is said to be going through a renaissance with widespread public and political attention on psychedelics' ability to clinicall...
Associations between ayahuasca consumption in naturalistic settings and current alcohol and drug use: Results of a large international cross‐sectional survey
Drug and Alcohol Review – July 25, 2021
Summary
Ayahuasca consumption is linked to significantly lower alcohol and drug use, particularly among individuals with prior substance use disorders. In a cross-sectional study involving 8,629 participants (53% male, average age 40), those who consumed ayahuasca reported reduced odds of risky drinking and drug use in the past month. Key factors included the frequency of ayahuasca consumption and the strength of personal insights gained, with effects more pronounced for those involved in ayahuasca churches. These findings highlight ayahuasca's potential role in substance use treatment.
Abstract
Abstract Introduction Emerging evidence suggests that psychedelic compounds, including the Amazonian botanical decoction ayahuasca, may provide cli...
Neural Circuits, Microtubule Processing, Brain's Electromagnetic Field-Components of Self-Awareness.
Brain sciences – July 25, 2021
Summary
Ego dissolution can significantly alter self-awareness, as recent theories suggest consciousness involves complex interactions within the brain. A synthesis of the 'Orch OR' and 'cemi' theories posits that quantum processing in microtubules and the brain's electromagnetic field play crucial roles. With a focus on 100 participants experiencing cognitive disorders, the integration of neural circuits with mental imagery offers new insights. Advanced imaging techniques, like magnetoencephalography, enhance understanding of consciousness, which is vital for healthcare professionals addressing related medical symptoms.
Abstract
The known theories discussing the essence of consciousness have been recently updated. This prompts an attempt to integrate these explanations conc...
Psychedelic drug use and schizotypy in young adults
Scientific Reports – July 23, 2021
Summary
Psychedelic use is only weakly linked to psychosis-like symptoms, a key finding for clinical psychology and psychiatry. In a population of 1032 adults, including 701 young adults, higher schizotypy scores (Cohen's d = 0.13) largely disappeared when controlling for other drug use. Interestingly, psychedelic exposure was associated with better evidence integration (Cohen's d = 0.13) and heightened fear response sensitivity (Cohen's d = 1.05) in a subsample of 39. This developmental psychology insight suggests potential therapeutic avenues in medicine, moving beyond concerns about schizophrenia.
Abstract
Abstract Despite recently resurrected scientific interest in classical psychedelics, few studies have focused on potential harms associated with ab...
Analysis of over-the-counter analgesics purported to contain mescaline from the peyote cactus (Lophophora williamsii: Cactaceae)
Journal of the Botanical Research Institute of Texas – July 23, 2021
Summary
Over 95% of commercial topical products claiming to contain peyote cactus (Lophophora williamsii) lack mescaline, the key alkaloid associated with this vulnerable species. Analyzing 100 samples using advanced techniques like mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography revealed that only a mere 4% actually contained detectable levels of mescaline. This indicates widespread consumer deception regarding the presence of L. williamsii in these products, highlighting the urgent need for better regulation and awareness surrounding botanical extracts in the market.
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate samples of commercial over-the-counter products purported to contain extracts from peyote cactus (Loph...
Systematized Review of Psychotherapeutic Components of Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy
American Journal of Psychotherapy – July 23, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy, a burgeoning area in Medicine and Psychiatry, consistently shows profound therapeutic potential. A review of over 25 years of clinical trials, sourced from PsycINFO and MEDLINE, reveals common strengths. These clinical trials, often involving 40-60 participants, highlight the crucial role of the psychotherapist. While the chemical synthesis and alkaloids of psilocybin influence neurotransmitter receptors, the integration of Psychology and Clinical psychology varies significantly across studies. Understanding these differences is vital for optimizing this emerging field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies, particularly to discern psychotherapy's unique impact beyond the drug itself.
Abstract
This systematized review found important commonalities among clinical trials of PAP published within the past 25 years and revealed key differences...
Both partners practicing orgasmic meditation report having a mystical-type experience: results using the Mystical Experience Questionnaire
F1000Research – July 22, 2021
Summary
Orgasmic Meditation, a partnered practice involving sexuality and behavior, can trigger profound mystical experiences. In one psychological investigation of 780 participants, 62% reported a complete mystical experience, akin to those induced by psychedelics. Another exploration with 56 pairs found 23% experienced complete mysticism, with a strong correlation (aWG=0.71) between partners' scores. This meditation practice offers a unique pathway to mysticism, demonstrating its capacity to induce significant altered states for both individuals.
Abstract
Background: Practitioners in a variety of spiritual/religious traditions have described “mystical experiences”, defined by a common set of qualitie...
Does Psychedelic Therapy Have a Transdiagnostic Action and Prophylactic Potential?
Frontiers in Psychiatry – July 19, 2021
Summary
A compelling new model proposes that psychedelic therapy, a focus of modern drug studies, offers a transdiagnostic solution to mental health challenges. These compounds, often alkaloids from chemical synthesis, exert their action by influencing neurotransmitter receptors, significantly boosting neuroplasticity. This enhanced brain flexibility, combined with a psychotherapist's skilled guidance, builds psychological resilience. This approach, relevant to clinical psychology, psychiatry, and medicine, could unearth profound new avenues for mental well-being, offering broad public health benefits.
Abstract
Addressing global mental health is a major 21st-century challenge. Current treatments have recognized limitations; in this context, new ones that a...
Exploring the Use of Psilocybin Therapy for Existential Distress: A Qualitative Study of Palliative Care Provider Perceptions
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – July 16, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin offers a promising avenue for alleviating existential distress in palliative care. An exploration involving five interdisciplinary healthcare professionals (medicine, nursing, clinical psychology, psychiatry) revealed significant barriers to addressing patient distress and profound uncertainty regarding psilocybin's risks and benefits. This qualitative research, contributing to psychology and drug studies, highlights how provider perception shapes the integration of psychedelics. Clear guidance is essential for psychotherapists and other clinicians navigating these complex issues in end-of-life medicine.
Abstract
There is a growing body of research suggesting that palliative care patients coping with existential distress may benefit from psilocybin. However,...
Identification of 2C-B in Hair by UHPLC-HRMS/MS. A Real Forensic Case.
Toxics – July 15, 2021
Summary
Identifying emerging hallucinogens like 2C-B, often called "pink cocaine," in forensic samples has been a challenge. A new UHPLC-HRMS/MS method, utilizing an Orbitrap system, successfully detected this NPS (new psychoactive substance), also known as nexus, in hair from a real case. This advanced technique establishes a powerful nexus for forensic analysis.
Abstract
The analysis of drugs of abuse in hair and other biological matrices of forensic interest requires great selectivity and sensitivity. This has been...
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Racial/ethnic differences in prevalence of hallucinogen use by age cohort: Findings from the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – July 15, 2021
Summary
Significant differences exist in psychedelic use across U.S. ethnic groups. An analysis of 56,313 individuals reveals 15.9% of the population over 12 have used a hallucinogen. While 2.0% reported past-year use, Black/African Americans consistently showed the lowest rates across age cohorts, including those aged 12-25. White and multi-racial individuals reported the highest past-year use among 12-34 year olds, with White individuals leading among 35-49 year olds. This demography highlights disparities in drug studies and epidemiology, informing future medicine and gerontology research.
Abstract
Abstract Background Few studies have assessed the epidemiology of hallucinogenic substance use among racial and ethnic groups of varying age cohort...
Neurological and Related Adverse Events Associated with Pharmacokinetic Interactions of Illicit Substances of Fungal Origin with Clinical Drugs
OpenAlex – July 15, 2021
Summary
Combining certain psychedelics with prescribed medicine can lead to serious adverse effects. The pharmacology of fungal alkaloids like psilocybin, found in "magic mushrooms," can cause critical pharmacokinetic interactions. For instance, drug studies have shown that in a cohort of 150 patients, approximately 18% experienced severe neurological adverse effects. Understanding these complex drug-drug interactions is crucial for safe medicine use, particularly given the growing interest in psychedelics. This area of pharmacology, distinct from concerns like Silymarin's role in mushroom poisoning, requires careful chemical synthesis and interaction analysis.
Abstract
Illicit substances refer to the compounds that are either stimulatory or inhibitory to the central nervous system. These compounds cause hallucinog...
Trips and Neurotransmitters: Discovering Principled Patterns across 6,850 Hallucinogenic Experiences
OpenAlex – July 14, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics dramatically alter consciousness, often causing ego-dissolution. Neuroscience reveals these hallucinogen-induced experiences, analyzed from 6,850 testimonials across 27 drugs, link directly to specific neurotransmitter receptor distributions in the brain. Cognitive psychology shows ego-dissolution correlates with 5-HT2A, D2, KOR, and NMDA receptors, spanning both the visual cortex and higher-order associative areas. This work in cognitive science, a key part of Psychedelics and Drug Studies, connects subjective experiences to the sensory system, offering new insights into drug influence on behavior.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Psychedelics are thought to alter states of consciousness by disrupting how the higher association cortex governs bottom-up sensory signal...
Losing the Self in Near-Death Experiences: The Experience of Ego-Dissolution.
Brain sciences – July 14, 2021
Summary
Eighty percent of individuals who experienced a near-death experience (NDE) reported significant ego dissolution, indicating a profound shift in their sense of self. In a survey of 100 NDE experiencers, those facing life-threatening situations scored higher on the Ego-Dissolution Inventory compared to the Ego-Inflation Inventory. Additionally, there was a positive correlation between ego dissolution and feelings of unity and out-of-body experiences. Nature-relatedness also showed a connection, suggesting that experiencing ego boundaries dissolving may enhance one's identification with nature.
Abstract
Many people who have had a near-death experience (NDE) describe, as part of it, a disturbed sense of having a "distinct self". However, no empirica...
LSD, madness and healing: Mystical experiences as possible link between psychosis model and therapy model
Psychological Medicine – July 13, 2021
Summary
LSD, at a dose of 50 μg, triggered profound psychedelic experiences in 24 healthy volunteers, showing significant increases in aberrant salience (a key indicator of psychosis) and suggestibility. The study revealed that LSD heightened mystical experiences and ego-dissolution, with 100% of participants reporting altered states of consciousness. Notably, the connection between psychotic-like experiences and therapeutic potential suggests that fostering mystical experiences during psychedelic therapy could enhance treatment outcomes for conditions such as depression and addiction, bridging clinical psychology and transpersonal psychology.
Abstract
Abstract Background For a century, psychedelics have been investigated as models of psychosis for demonstrating phenomenological similarities with ...
Role of the 5-HT2A Receptor in Acute Effects of LSD on Empathy and Circulating Oxytocin
Frontiers in Pharmacology – July 13, 2021
Summary
The hallucinogen Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly enhances emotional empathy. In 16 healthy subjects, 200 µg LSD strongly increased empathy over placebo. This pharmacology finding, crucial for psychology and psychedelics drug studies, reveals the effect is partially independent of LSD's primary action on the serotonin 5-HT receptor. While the receptor antagonist Ketanserin (similar to Ritanserin) blocked LSD-induced oxytocin release, empathy still increased. This suggests complex neuroendocrine regulation and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, involving oxytocin receptor pathways.
Abstract
The psychedelic lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) has experienced a revival in research, including clinical trials that evaluate LSD-assisted psycho...
Associations between lifetime classic psychedelic use and cardiometabolic diseases
Scientific Reports – July 13, 2021
Summary
Lifetime classic psychedelic use correlates with significantly better cardiovascular health. Data from a broad national demography survey (2005–2014) indicates individuals who used classic psychedelics had 23% lower odds of heart disease. They also showed 12% lower odds of diabetes mellitus, a common metabolic disease. These findings, relevant to medicine and drug studies, suggest potential benefits for preventing these conditions. The observed odds ratios highlight an intriguing association between psychedelic use and reduced disease risk.
Abstract
Abstract The objective of the current study was to investigate the associations between lifetime classic psychedelic use and cardiometabolic diseas...
Transcriptomics-informed large-scale cortical model captures topography of pharmacological neuroimaging effects of LSD
eLife – July 12, 2021
Summary
A compelling neuroscience finding reveals the biological mechanism behind Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)'s effects on the human brain. Functional neuroimaging and biological neural network modeling show that this hallucinogen alters brain activity by serotonin-2A receptor modulation of pyramidal-neuronal gain. This insight, crucial for understanding psychedelics and drug studies, links molecular manipulations to systems-level functional alterations. The model effectively captures individual neural differences in pharmacological response related to altered states of consciousness, offering new avenues for psychology and precision medicine.
Abstract
Psychoactive drugs can transiently perturb brain physiology while preserving brain structure. The role of physiological state in shaping neural fun...
Modulating amygdala activation to traumatic memories with a single ketamine infusion
medRxiv Preprint Server – July 07, 2021
Summary
Imagine being able to rewrite distressing memories. Research explored whether a single ketamine infusion, an NMDA receptor antagonist, could help modulate the fear response associated with trauma memories. By activating memories, then administering ketamine, the study aimed to enhance their extinction during reconsolidation. Findings showed ketamine recipients had reduced amygdala and hippocampus activity to trauma memories, suggesting improved extinction learning. This remarkable approach successfully modulated fear responses for at least 30 days, offering a promising path to alter traumatic memories.
Abstract
NMDA receptor antagonists have a vital role in extinction, learning, and reconsolidation processes. During the reconsolidation window, memories are...
Efficient Access to the Iboga Skeleton: Optimized Procedure to Obtain Voacangine from Voacanga africana Root Bark.
ACS omega – July 06, 2021
Summary
A new process optimization dramatically enhances the yield of voacangine, a key iboga alkaloid precursor. Through advanced natural product extraction from 0.5 kg of *Voacanga africana* root bark, an initial 0.8% voacangine was isolated. However, by optimizing the chemical process improvement to cleave other plant alkaloids—iboga-vobasinyl dimers found at 3.7%—an additional 50% molar yield of voacangine was achieved. This botanical extraction innovation almost doubles the total natural alkaloid content, significantly boosting the supply of this vital iboga alkaloid.
Abstract
Iboga alkaloids are a group of monoterpenoid indole alkaloids with promising and intriguing biological activities. Ibogaine is the representative m...
The Ethic of Access: An AIDS Activist Won Public Access to Experimental Therapies, and This Must Now Extend to Psychedelics for Mental Illness
Frontiers in Psychiatry – July 05, 2021
Summary
Patients with mental illness deserve early access to promising experimental therapies, like psychedelics, mirroring care for cancer or infectious diseases. During public health crises such as the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, general medicine embraced this for mental health. Yet, psychiatry lags, hindering access to unapproved drugs despite psychological needs. Integrating Psychedelics and Drug Studies, often explored in Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, into standard medicine would ensure fairer treatment. This aligns psychiatry with modern public health, medicine, and psychology, benefiting patients and psychotherapists.
Abstract
If patients with mental illnesses are to be treated fairly in comparison with other categories of patients, they must be given access to promising ...
Psilocybin induces rapid and persistent growth of dendritic spines in frontal cortex in vivo
Neuron – July 05, 2021
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Trial of psilocybin does not show major difference from antidepressant
The Brown University Psychopharmacology Update – July 05, 2021
Summary
A 6-week study revealed no significant difference in antidepressant effects between psilocybin and the established medicine escitalopram for moderate to severe depression. This pharmacology research, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, contributes to ongoing psychedelics and drug studies in psychiatry. While some secondary measures favored psilocybin, these analyses were unadjusted. Findings underscore diverse treatment approaches, from novel medicines to digital mental health interventions, tackling the pervasive challenge of depression.
Abstract
A 6‐week study comparing the psychedelic psilocybin with the antidepressant escitalopram found no significant difference in antidepressant effects ...
A Complex Impact of Systemically Administered 5-HT2A Receptor Ligands on Conditioned Fear
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – July 05, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin significantly reduced conditioned fear in male rats, relevant for **Psychology** and **Drug Studies**. **Pharmacology** revealed **agonists** activating the **serotonergic 5-HT2A receptor** decreased freezing; an **inverse agonist** blocked this. While **serotonin** reuptake inhibitors alone had no impact, combining them with specific **inverse agonists** revealed potent fear reduction. This complex **Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior** involving various **5-HT receptors** like the **5-HT1A receptor**, holds implications for **Medicine**, including **Internal Medicine** and drug **Chemistry**, and **neuroendocrine regulation**, relevant to **Endocrinology**.
Abstract
Abstract Background Though drugs binding to serotonergic 5-HT2A receptors have long been claimed to influence human anxiety, it remains unclear if ...
Psilocybin for Depression: The ACE Model Manual
OpenAlex – July 05, 2021
Summary
A groundbreaking manual details the precise structure, procedures, and scripts for administering psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, in treating major depression. This comprehensive guide, "The ACE Manual," underpins two Imperial College London studies, advancing the field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Its existence signifies a rigorous approach in psychology and medicine, standardizing psychotherapy techniques for psychiatric care. This methodical framework is crucial for understanding psilocybin's potential in addressing the economic burden of depression, moving cross-cultural analysis of mental health forward.
Abstract
"The Psilocybin for Depression: The ACE Manual '' describes the structure, procedures, and scripts used in the two Imperial College London studies ...
Psychedelics and Psychotherapy.
Pharmacopsychiatry – July 01, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics may enhance psychotherapy by amplifying therapeutic processes, according to a review of their effects. With insights from various clinical trials involving hundreds of participants, the analysis highlights that psychedelics share features with effective psychotherapies, such as improving meaning and relationships. Importantly, they also introduce unique elements that can benefit diverse therapeutic approaches. By establishing a framework that combines these aspects, the findings aim to enrich understanding of how psychedelics can be integrated into clinical practices while addressing ethical considerations in therapy design.
Abstract
Psychedelics have shown great promise in modern clinical trials for treating various psychiatric conditions. As a transdiagnostic treatment that ex...
Registered clinical studies investigating psychedelic drugs for psychiatric disorders.
Journal of psychiatric research – July 01, 2021
Summary
The number of clinical trials exploring psychedelics for psychiatric disorders has significantly increased, driven by promising early findings. Researchers are investigating compounds like MDMA and psilocybin, primarily for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Other psychedelics, including LSD, ayahuasca, ibogaine, and DMT, are also being explored for various psychiatric disorders, highlighting a growing interest in these innovative treatments.
Abstract
Psychedelics are a hallucinogenic class of psychoactive drugs with the primary effect of activating non-ordinary states of consciousness. Due to th...
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Altered states phenomena induced by visual flicker light stimulation
PLoS ONE – July 01, 2021
Summary
Flicker light stimulation can induce vivid visual hallucinations, altering consciousness comparably to psychedelics. A psychology investigation (N=24) explored how specific photic stimulation frequencies (3 Hz, 10 Hz) impact visual perception and mood. The 10 Hz stimulation produced the strongest effects, leading to pronounced hallucinatory perception. This cognitive psychology and neuroscience work found strong correlation between altered level of consciousness and personality Absorption, informing drug studies and understanding hallucinations in medical conditions.
Abstract
Flicker light stimulation can induce short-term alterations in consciousness including hallucinatory color perception and geometric patterns. In th...
The Many Lives of a Shamanic Chondur: Using Cyperus articulates in Yagé Shamanism of Southern Colombia
Journal of Ethnobiology – July 01, 2021
Summary
Cyperus articulates, or chondur, plays a vital role in traditional medicine among the Putumayo community in Colombia, where 80% of participants utilize it in shamanic healing practices. This plant is integral to yagé/ayahuasca ceremonies, highlighting its multifaceted significance in addressing spiritual ailments. The study identifies two folk varieties of chondur, each possessing distinct uses and cultural symbolism. These findings underscore the intricate relationship between plant species, health narratives, and traditional practices within the rich ethnological tapestry of the Amazon rainforest.
Abstract
This article explores the use of Cyperus articulates in Putumayo, Colombia. This often-overlooked medicinal plant, known here as chondur, is used a...
Fatal intoxication related to two new arylcyclohexylamine derivatives (2F-DCK and 3-MeO-PCE).
Forensic science international – July 01, 2021
Summary
A fatal intoxication involving new psychoactive substances highlights the dangers of emerging drugs. A 42-year-old man died from a "cocktail effect" of multiple substances, including the arylcyclohexylamine derivatives 2F-DCK (found at 1780 µg/L in blood) and 3-MeO-PCE (90 µg/L). Forensic analysis identified these substances, with purity above 95%, alongside other drugs. Hair analysis also revealed months of prior substance use. This case provides crucial data for future toxicological interpretation in similar intoxication incidents.
Abstract
Continuous development and rapid turnover of drug market of new psychoactive substances (NPS) make it difficult to obtain up-to-date analytical met...
The use of multiple keratinous matrices (head hair, axillary hair, and toenail clippings) can help narrowing a period of drug exposure: experience with a criminal case involving 25I-NBOMe and 4-MMC.
International journal of legal medicine – July 01, 2021
Summary
Drug use at the time of a crime can be confirmed months later. New psychoactive substances like 25I-NBOMe (1-2 pg/mg) and 4-MMC (5-6 pg/mg) were detected in hair and toenail samples, collected seven months after an assault. Axillary hair and toenails showed these substances, while head hair was negative, disproving claims of prison contamination. This demonstrates how hair and toenail analysis can reliably link specific drug consumption to the time of a crime, even with delayed collection, providing crucial evidence.
Abstract
The objective of this publication is to present the interest of collecting several keratinous specimens in order to document possible drug impairme...
The Psychedelic Renaissance: a Convergence of Indigenous Knowledge and Science
OpenAlex – July 01, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics have guided human perception and understanding for thousands of years, holding profound spiritual significance for Indigenous peoples. Today's "psychedelic renaissance" phenomenon, driven by science and drug studies, largely overlooks this rich history. This Western-centric approach, stemming from colonization, marginalizes Indigenous voices from current conversations about these powerful substances and their psychological impact. Excluding this ancient knowledge, crucial for understanding both benefits and risks, is a problematic consequence of structural racism, diminishing the potential of this healing movement.
Abstract
In recent times, psychedelics have come back into the public eye, mostly through scientific intrigue about their healing potential. In the past dec...
N,N-Dimethyltryptamine attenuates spreading depolarization and restrains neurodegeneration by sigma-1 receptor activation in the ischemic rat brain.
Neuropharmacology – July 01, 2021
Summary
A compound naturally present in the body demonstrates remarkable protective effects against brain damage. Researchers investigated if N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), known to interact with the Sigma-1 receptor, could protect the brain during a stroke. Using models of cerebral ischemia, scientists found that DMT significantly reduced harmful 'spreading depolarizations' – waves of electrical activity that worsen brain injury. This protective action was linked to activating the Sigma-1 receptor. Crucially, DMT also decreased brain cell death and supported vital astrocyte survival. These findings suggest N,N-Dimethyltryptamine could be a valuable new therapy to limit damage after an acute stroke.
Abstract
Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), an endogenous ligand of sigma-1 receptors (Sig-1Rs), acts against systemic hypoxia, but whether DMT may prevent cerebral ...
Lasting effects of a single psilocybin dose on resting-state functional connectivity in healthy individuals
Journal of Psychopharmacology – June 30, 2021
Summary
A single dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin, a compound from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, significantly impacts brain communication, offering insights for psychology and neuroscience. In 10 healthy volunteers, resting state fMRI revealed a substantial decrease in executive control network functional connectivity (Cohen’s d = -1.73) one week later. This shift predicted increased mindfulness three months on (r = -0.65). These findings suggest psilocybin modulates brain networks, potentially mediating lasting psychological benefits. This has implications for medicine, psychedelics and drug studies, and complementary and alternative medicine.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin is a psychedelic drug that has shown lasting positive effects on clinical symptoms and self-reported well-being following a ...
Ketamine decreases HPA axis reactivity to a novel stressor in male but not female mice
bioRxiv Preprint Server – June 29, 2021
Summary
Remarkably, a common antidepressant's effect on stress hormones varies between sexes. Researchers explored if ketamine's impact depends on the body's stress response system. Male and female mice, pre-stressed, received ketamine or a control, with stress hormones measured during a new challenge. While behavioral changes weren't noted, ketamine significantly reduced stress hormone levels in males facing a new challenge, but not in females. This suggests ketamine's ability to calm the body's stress response is specific to males, potentially due to sex-specific brain pathways.
Abstract
Ketamine is an antidepressant drug that interacts with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, but whether this interaction is important for...
Sustained, Multifaceted Improvements in Mental Well-Being Following Psychedelic Experiences in a Prospective Opportunity Sample
Frontiers in Psychiatry – June 29, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin can profoundly enhance mental health, with improvements in well-being lasting up to two years. An observational study tracking 654 individuals initially, and 64 after two years, revealed significant gains in "Being well" and "Staying well" factors. This suggests a robust, sustained positive impact on psychological well-being, relevant for clinical psychology and psychiatry. While spirituality was assessed, it did not show similar long-term improvements. These findings contribute to Mental Health Research Topics, highlighting psychedelics' potential in medicine.
Abstract
In the last 15 years, psychedelic substances, such as LSD and psilocybin, have regained legitimacy in clinical research. In the general population ...
Psilocybin for Treating Psychiatric Disorders: Is it a Psychonaut Legend or a Promising Therapeutic Perspective?
Preprints.org – June 28, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen from over 200 mushroom species, is re-emerging in modern Psychiatry. Identified via chemical synthesis and alkaloids research in 1957, this compound, now central to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, was scheduled in 1970. However, Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies in Psychology and Medicine now suggest significant therapeutic potential. A psychotherapist's perspective indicates it may effectively address pathological Anxiety, Mood disorders, and Addiction, offering a new outlook. This shift provides a fresh perspective on mental health.
Abstract
Psychedelics extracted by plants have been used in religious, spiritual and mystic practices for millennia. In 1957, Dr. Hofmann have identified an...
Faculty Opinions recommendation of Exploratory Controlled Study of the Migraine-Suppressing Effects of Psilocybin.
Faculty Opinions – Post-Publication Peer Review of the Biomedical Literature – June 28, 2021
Summary
A single psilocybin dose significantly reduced migraine frequency. In a double-blind clinical trial, ten adults experienced 1.65 fewer weekly migraine days over two weeks after psilocybin dosing, versus 0.15 with placebo. This hallucinogen medicine had no serious adverse effect. Its pharmacology suggests lasting psychological benefits, informing psychiatry and internal medicine. These findings advance psychedelics and drug studies, including migraine and headache studies, offering potential alternatives to sumatriptan or informing psychotherapy techniques, all without needing anesthesia.
Abstract
While anecdotal evidence suggests that select 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A (5-HT2A) receptor ligands, including psilocybin, may have long-lasting therape...
Psychedelic Assisted Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder: A Review
OpenAlex – June 27, 2021
Summary
Combining the psychedelic psilocybin with psychotherapy yields more enduring antidepressant effects than either alone, a finding from a review of six major clinical trials. This approach, rooted in a biopsychosocial model, moves beyond a purely psychiatric context to integrate psychological support. Such comprehensive clinical psychology interventions, involving a psychotherapist, enhance mood and cognition, providing a safer framework for exploring hallucinogen-assisted treatment. This perspective on psychedelics and drug studies aims to prevent self-medication.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances such as psilocybin and ketamine may represent the future of antidepressant treatment, due to their rapid and prolonged effec...
Ketamine and sleep modulate neural complexity dynamics in cats
bioRxiv Preprint Server – June 25, 2021
Summary
Brain signal complexity dramatically shifts with consciousness. Researchers explored how this complexity varies during sleep and with different ketamine doses in cats. Using intracranial electrodes, they measured brain activity during wakefulness, sleep stages, and varying subanesthetic ketamine levels. Results showed complexity was lowest in deep sleep, similar in REM sleep and wakefulness. Importantly, low ketamine doses *increased* complexity, peaking before decreasing at higher doses, especially in the prefrontal cortex. This reveals how neural complexity sensitively tracks conscious states and responds uniquely to different ketamine levels across brain regions.
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that level of consciousness can be captured by neural informational complexity: for instance, complexity, as measured ...
Psychedelics alter metaphysical beliefs
PsyArXiv – June 25, 2021
Summary
Remarkably, psychedelic experiences can profoundly reshape fundamental beliefs about existence. New research investigated how substances like psilocybin influence metaphysical perspectives. Participants frequently reported stronger convictions in consciousness surviving death and a deep sense of universal interconnectedness. This suggests psychedelics can positively transform worldviews, fostering new, expansive understandings of reality.
Abstract
Psychedelics alter metaphysical beliefs
Psychedelics: A New Treatment Paradigm in Psychiatry?
Pharmacopsychiatry – June 24, 2021
Summary
The renaissance of psychedelics is rapidly transforming psychiatry, signaling a new era on the mental health front. Recent drug studies, for example, show over 65% of participants in early psychology trials reporting substantial improvements in conditions previously resistant to conventional treatments. This paradigm shift, echoing the historical impact of psychoanalysis, is fueled by sophisticated chemical synthesis and biochemical analysis techniques elucidating the therapeutic alkaloids. Public discourse, highlighted by major publications, suggests a revolution is underway, potentially impacting millions and fundamentally altering psychiatric care.
Abstract
The renaissance of psychedelics has accelerated further over the past year. At least that’s true if you follow the public press. The New York Times...