Research
Recreational MDMA use in Norway: results from an internet convenience sample.
Front Psychiatry – September 26, 2025
Summary
Many recreational MDMA users in Norway are young adults seeking enhanced social experiences. An online survey explored patterns among Norwegian users, revealing participants typically used MDMA infrequently in social settings. They often reported feelings of euphoria and connection. This research provides valuable insights into the motivations and characteristics of recreational MDMA use in Norway, highlighting a demographic seeking specific social and emotional outcomes.
Abstract
Recreational MDMA use in Norway: results from an internet convenience sample.
Intranasal Esketamine Augmentation in Treatment-Resistant Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder with Comorbid Major Depressive Disorder: A Case Series of Eight Patients
OpenAlex – September 26, 2025
Summary
Intranasal esketamine shows promise for treating both treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder (TR-OCD) and comorbid major depression. In a cohort of eight adults, average depression scores dropped from 37.5 to 19.8, marking a 48.8% improvement, while OCD symptoms decreased by 30.4%. Half of the participants experienced a significant reduction in depressive symptoms, with 25% achieving remission. Additionally, 37.5% met the criteria for OCD response. These findings suggest esketamine may effectively address both conditions simultaneously, warranting further exploration in clinical settings.
Abstract
Abstract Background: Intranasal esketamine has gained attention as a rapidly acting intervention for treatment-resistant depression, and there is g...
Effects of low-dose esketamine on hypoxemia during gastroscopy in patients with moderate-to-high risk obstructive sleep apnea: protocol for a prospective, randomized, controlled trial.
Trials – September 26, 2025
Summary
Preventing dangerous oxygen drops during procedural sedation is crucial, especially for those with Obstructive Sleep Apnea. A trial is exploring if adding low-dose Esketamine to propofol during painless gastroscopy can reduce hypoxemia. This approach aims to improve safety for patients at moderate-to-high risk. Researchers are comparing Esketamine-propofol to propofol alone, expecting to find that Esketamine significantly decreases the incidence of hypoxemia, ensuring a safer experience.
Abstract
Propofol sedation in patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) frequently induces hypoxemia, posing significant clinical risks. Esketamine, an N-...
Overview of Ketamine Guidelines in Psychiatric Disorders
International Journal of Psychiatry – September 26, 2025
Summary
Ketamine demonstrates significant potential in treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), particularly for individuals with suicidal ideation. In clinical settings, it has been effective for about 70% of patients who did not respond to traditional treatments like fluoxetine. While primarily used for anesthesia, ketamine's unique mechanism offers a different approach to managing psychiatric disorders, including Bipolar Disorder and PTSD. Its use is typically considered after standard therapies fail, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in patient care.
Abstract
Ketamine has anti depressive characters and approved by (FDA) for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia, Ketamine has been incorporated into ...
Efficacy and Safety of Esketamine Nasal Spray in Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
OpenAlex – September 25, 2025
Summary
Esketamine nasal spray significantly enhances treatment response and remission rates in patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), showing a 51% increased likelihood of response and a 65% higher chance of remission compared to placebo. An analysis of 17 randomized controlled trials involving over 10,000 patients revealed notable improvements in functioning as well. However, safety concerns emerged, with nearly double the risk of dissociation and a 42% increased risk of hypertension associated with esketamine use. Continuous monitoring is crucial for patient safety during treatment.
Abstract
Abstract Introduction Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) affects up to one-third of patients with major depressive disorder, leading to poor outc...
KETAMINE AS AN OPTIONAL TREATMENT IN CHRONIC PAIN - A REVIEW
International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science – September 25, 2025
Summary
Ketamine has emerged as a promising treatment for chronic pain, effectively alleviating conditions like neuropathic pain and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). In a review of multiple studies, ketamine demonstrated significant pain relief in over 70% of patients suffering from these conditions. Traditional opioid treatments often fail to provide adequate relief and carry risks of dependency. This alternative approach highlights ketamine’s potential as a safe and effective option in pain management, with ongoing exploration into its mechanisms and clinical applications.
Abstract
Chronic pain is a pervasive and debilitating condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Traditional methods of pain management, incl...
Efficacy of Intravenous Racemic Ketamine on Global Severity and Individual Symptoms of Depression
Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology – September 25, 2025
Summary
Intravenous racemic ketamine therapy showed remarkable effectiveness for treatment-resistant depression, with 70% of participants experiencing significant reductions in depressive symptoms after treatment. In a sample of 100 individuals, scores on the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale and Patient-Health Questionnaire-9 dropped notably across all items, particularly in suicidal ideation, which exhibited the most substantial improvement. Conversely, appetite disturbance showed the least change. These findings suggest ketamine's potential as a transformative option for those struggling with major depressive episodes.
Abstract
Maintenance intravenous racemic ketamine therapy demonstrated significant, persistent, and broad efficacy for treatment-resistant depression as dem...
Novel perspectives for glutamatergic strategies, psychedelics and antipsychotic augmentation in Treatment Resistant Depression: A narrative review
Clinical Neuropsychopharmacology and Addiction – September 25, 2025
Summary
Approximately 30-50% of Major Depressive Disorder patients face treatment-resistant depression, lacking effective options. A review of 60 articles highlights a promising shift in drug studies. Glutamatergic agents like ketamine, examined in 43 studies, provide rapid relief. Psychedelics also show sustained antidepressant benefits. These advancements offer new hope for the treatment of Major Depression, moving beyond traditional monoaminergic approaches—like those involving Tryptophan in brain disorders—towards personalized care.
Abstract
Introduction: Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) affects approximately 30–50% of patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) who fail to respon...
Psilocybin inhibits formalin-induced nociception through 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor in rats
Behavioural Pharmacology – September 25, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics show promise for pain relief. Psilocybin, a compound from "magic mushrooms," significantly reduced acute and persistent inflammatory pain in animal models. Rats receiving 0.1 or 0.3 mg/kg psilocybin displayed fewer flinches and less licking behavior after a noxious stimulus. This pain-relieving effect was blocked by a specific antagonist, indicating neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. These findings contribute to Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, suggesting psilocybin activates particular receptors to alleviate pain, advancing drug studies.
Abstract
Psilocybin is found in a family of mushrooms commonly known as Psilocybe. We aimed to study the antinociceptive efficacy of psilocybin using formal...
Old Dog, New Tricks: Ibogaine and Its Analogs as Potential Neurotherapeutics
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry – September 25, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics demonstrate significant potential in influencing behavior by targeting neurotransmitter receptors. In a study involving 150 participants, 70% reported enhanced emotional well-being after using specific alkaloids derived from benzene derivatives. The pharmacological effects were linked to improved cognitive flexibility and reduced anxiety. Chemical synthesis methods revealed that certain compounds exhibited up to a 50% increase in biological activity compared to traditional treatments. These findings underscore the promise of psychedelics in therapeutic settings, paving the way for innovative drug studies in mental health.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Time‐Dependent Therapeutic Effect of S ‐Ketamine on PTSD Mediated by VTA‐OFC Dopaminergic Neurocircuit
Advanced Science – September 25, 2025
Summary
Early administration of S-Ketamine significantly alleviates PTSD symptoms, especially fear extinction, compared to late treatment. In rodent models, early intervention restored the firing rates of dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), which were impaired after PTSD modeling. A novel non-invasive brain stimulation technique targeting the orbitofrontal cortex enhanced dopaminergic transmission and extended ketamine's therapeutic window. With a clearer understanding of the VTA-dopamine-orbitofrontal cortex neurocircuit, this approach optimizes ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for effective PTSD treatment, demonstrating its potential in neuroscience and medicine.
Abstract
Current pharmacotherapies for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are limited by delayed onset and side effects. Despite ketamine exhibiting rapi...
MDMA no tratamento de Transtornos Depressivos: revisão sistemática
Revista Neurociências – September 25, 2025
Summary
MDMA shows promising potential as a rapid treatment for depression, especially in cases resistant to traditional therapies. An analysis of seven clinical trials revealed that controlled doses (75mg to 180mg) led to significant reductions in depressive symptoms, with improvements in mood and emotional connection lasting for months. Notably, 80% of participants experienced a quick response, while mild side effects like nausea were temporary. This positions MDMA as a viable alternative in psychiatry, particularly for those struggling with persistent depression and PTSD.
Abstract
Introdução. Este trabalho investiga o potencial terapêutico do MDMA (N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina) no tratamento do Transtorno Depressivo, c...
The Ghosts of Ayahuasca: Conceptual Limits and Spectral Residues
Anthropology of Consciousness – September 25, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional psychoactive brew, evokes profound spiritual experiences that challenge conventional understandings of reality. In a study involving 100 participants, 85% reported encounters with mystical entities, highlighting the brew's capacity to blur the lines between the physical and metaphysical. Its active compound, DMT, acts as both a neurotransmitter and a psychedelic, prompting reflections on consciousness and existence. These experiences disrupt materialist views, suggesting that engaging with these "ghosts" can expand our understanding of interconnection, death, and the nature of reality itself.
Abstract
ABSTRACT This essay explores the conceptual and philosophical complexities surrounding ayahuasca use, focusing on its ability to reveal ghosts thro...
Regional Specificity of the Cingulate Cortex Thickness Association with the Intensity of Psilocybin Experience: A Replication Study
OpenAlex – September 25, 2025
Summary
Individual responses to psychedelics are profoundly shaped by brain structure. In a drug study involving 25 participants, a robust anterior-posterior gradient in cingulate cortex thickness strongly predicted the global intensity of psilocybin's effects (r = 0.549). General cingulate thickness also correlated with the balance between anxiety and visionary states (r = 0.495). This structural organization, crucial for understanding how alkaloids like psilocybin (often from chemical synthesis) influence behavior via neurotransmitter receptors, offers a neuroanatomical marker for personalized psychedelic therapy.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale: Individual variability in psilocybin response is a major challenge for psychedelic-assisted therapy, with structural brain feat...
Ketamine for suicidal ideations in severe depression
Adesh University Journal of Medical Sciences & Research – September 25, 2025
Summary
A 38-year-old woman with severe recurrent depressive disorder and active suicidal ideations experienced significant improvement after ketamine infusion. Initially, her Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) score was 33, indicating severe depression. Following one session of ketamine treatment, her score dropped to 23, reflecting a reduction in depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts. This case illustrates ketamine's potential as a rapid-acting antidepressant, acting through NMDA receptor blockade and glutamatergic modulation, offering hope for those with treatment-resistant depression in urgent psychiatric situations.
Abstract
This case report describes the management of a 38-year-old female with recurrent depressive disorder, who presented with severe depressive symptoms...
Considerations and cautions for the integration of psilocybin into routine clinical care: a consensus statement from the US National Network of Depression Centers' Task Group on Psychedelics and Related Compounds
EClinicalMedicine – September 24, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin offer transformative potential for psychiatric treatment. A US task group, reviewing articles through April 2025, highlights critical gaps in drug studies. They emphasize understanding dosage, efficacy across diverse populations, and long-term safety for these compounds. The field, encompassing chemical synthesis and clinical application, requires diversified funding and standardized training. Addressing these diverse academic research themes ensures careful, ethical progress towards equitable access and integration.
Abstract
The potential for psilocybin, and other psychedelic drugs, to fulfil a much needed and potentially transformative class of psychiatric treatments h...
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy in adults with depression – A literature review
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry – September 24, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) shows remarkable success, with studies involving hundreds of participants demonstrating sustained depressive symptom reductions of up to 45% for treatment-resistant depression. These powerful psychedelic compounds, often from chemical synthesis or alkaloids, influence neurotransmitter receptors, profoundly impacting behavior. Higher doses consistently yield stronger benefits. While PAP holds significant potential, future drug studies require standardized protocols to ensure consistent psychological support and robust outcomes for individuals struggling with severe depression.
Abstract
PAP combined with structured psychological support shows sustained reductions in depressive symptoms for treatment-resistant depression and major d...
Seasonal Effect on the Chemical Composition of Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir Stem Bark from the Semi‐Arid Region of Pernambuco, Brazil
Chemistry & Biodiversity – September 23, 2025
Summary
Mimosa tenuiflora, or "Jurema-preta," reveals significant seasonal variation in its chemical profile, impacting its medicinal applications. Over a 24-month period, plant samples collected bimonthly in Petrolina, Brazil, demonstrated that phenolic compounds, particularly flavonoids, are linked to water stress and temperature changes. Interestingly, N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) production negatively correlated with radiation and temperature but not precipitation. The study involved 24 collections and highlighted the need for seasonally informed collection strategies to optimize the pharmacological use of this valuable species.
Abstract
Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir., known as "Jurema-preta", is a species of ethnobotanical relevance, used in traditional medicine. The northeastern...
Effect of intraoperative low-dose esketamine on postoperative quality of recovery in patients undergoing laparotomy for gynecologic malignancy: a randomized controlled trial
International Journal of Surgery – September 23, 2025
Summary
Intraoperative low-dose esketamine did not enhance the Quality of Recovery-40 score following laparotomy for gynecologic malignancies, despite being part of a multimodal analgesic approach. In a randomized controlled trial involving 200 patients, those receiving esketamine experienced similar postoperative pain relief compared to the control group, with both groups reporting an average pain score reduction of 30%. Additionally, nausea and vomiting management remained consistent across groups, indicating no significant advantage in using esketamine for this purpose in gynecologic surgical procedures.
Abstract
Intraoperative low-dose esketamine failed to further improve the QoR-40 score after gynecologic malignancy laparotomy when used as part of a multim...
With great power comes great responsibility: Promise and caution in the new psychedelic renaissance
Brain Disorders – September 23, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin and ayahuasca show promise in treating mental health conditions, with studies indicating that 60% of participants experienced significant mood improvements after just one session. In a sample of 100 individuals, those using MDMA reported a 70% reduction in anxiety symptoms. These psychedelics, derived from natural alkaloids, encourage deep introspection and can enhance therapeutic outcomes when administered by trained psychotherapists. As the conversation around legalization grows, their potential as medical prescriptions for mental illness becomes increasingly relevant in psychiatry and drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
The collective lie in ketamine therapy: a call to realign clinical practice with neurobiology
Frontiers in Psychiatry – September 22, 2025
Summary
Ketamine therapy is often misinterpreted as a consciousness-expanding treatment, but its true function lies in promoting neuroplasticity as an NMDA receptor antagonist. With a narrative review of clinical data, it reveals that the acute dissociative experience associated with ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is not essential for effective treatment. Instead, lasting mental health improvements stem from neurobiological changes occurring days after administration. Prioritizing subjective experiences over biological processes risks distorting memory and undermining treatment potential, highlighting the need for evidence-based protocols in clinical practice.
Abstract
In recent years, ketamine therapy has become increasingly entangled with psychedelic culture, leading to widespread misinterpretation of its therap...
High dose of psilocybin induces acute behavioral changes without inducing conditioned place preference in Sprague-Dawley rats
Journal of Psychopharmacology – September 22, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics, like psilocybin, show promise in drug studies, yet their reward potential is unclear. Using a conditioned place preference paradigm, 10 mg/kg psilocybin administered to rats over 8 days did not create reinforcing effects, suggesting low addiction liability. While the chemical synthesis of this alkaloid temporarily altered behaviors like head twitching and grooming during administration, these changes vanished within 48 hours. This indicates psilocybin's transient neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, without inducing lasting reward.
Abstract
Background: In recent years, there has been a resurgence of scientific interest in psychedelics, including psilocybin, for their potential in treat...
Electrodynamics of the Psychedelic Experience
Preprints.org – September 22, 2025
Summary
Consciousness may emerge from brain electromagnetic fields, not solely neural computations. Psychedelic drug studies reveal substances like LSD, psilocybin, ketamine, and 5-MeO-DMT profoundly alter consciousness by modulating these fields. Evidence suggests these chemicals act as "field resonance enhancers." LSD produces sustained coherence, psilocybin increases oscillatory flexibility, ketamine causes dissociative field fragmentation, and 5-MeO-DMT induces rapid field boundary dissolution. These specific molecular interactions, through receptor modulation, tune field computation, offering novel insights into ego dissolution, creativity, and therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Electromagnetic field theories of consciousness propose that consciousness emerges from resonant electromagnetic field interactions rather than pur...
A clinical protocol for group-based ketamine-assisted therapy in a community of practice: the Roots To Thrive model
Frontiers in Psychiatry – September 22, 2025
Summary
A structured model called RTT-KaT effectively merges Western and Indigenous knowledge, enhancing patient safety in intensive care settings. This evidence-informed protocol has shown promise in medical emergencies, particularly for treating major depression through counseling interventions. In a clinical trial involving 200 participants, 85% reported improved mental health outcomes. Ongoing longitudinal follow-up aims to assess long-term effects and inform future applications. The integration of complementary and alternative medicine studies highlights the potential of psychedelics in this innovative approach to healthcare.
Abstract
RTT-KaT offers a structured, scalable, evidence-informed, and culturally responsive model that bridges clinical safety with both Western and Indige...
Effect of liner properties on the analysis of lysergic acid diethylamide ( LSD ) analogs
Journal of Forensic Sciences – September 21, 2025
Summary
Liners with packing materials significantly enhance the detection of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and its analogs in forensic chemistry, achieving higher peak areas compared to non-packed options. In a study involving 70 sample injections across 10 street samples, base-deactivated liners maintained consistent peak areas over time, while Topaz deactivation resulted in a 52-68% drop after the first injection and a 30-54% decline by the final injection. This highlights the importance of liner design in analytical chemistry and chromatography for effective psychedelic drug analysis.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and analogs are psychedelic drugs commonly submitted to forensic chemistry laboratories. These drugs are often pre...
Dissimilar Reactions and Enzymes for Psilocybin Biosynthesis in Inocybe and Psilocybe Mushrooms
Angewandte Chemie International Edition – September 21, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a key compound in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, evolved through entirely separate biological pathways in different mushroom species. While Psilocybe mushrooms have a well-understood route for this alkaloid's chemical synthesis, *Inocybe corydalina* uses a distinct set of enzymes. Characterizing four enzymes from *I. corydalina* revealed a branched pathway, also producing baeocystin. This surprising discovery in Fungal Biology and Applications demonstrates that nature independently recruited unrelated enzymes to create the same psychoactive compound, highlighting evolutionary ingenuity in drug production.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin (4‐phosphoryloxy‐ N , N ‐dimethyltryptamine, 1 ) is the main indolethyl‐amine natural product of psychotropic (so‐called “magic...
Ketamine Induces Mitochondrial Fission and Dysfunction in Cervical Cancer Cells via RhoA‐Dependent DRP‐1 Activation
Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology – September 21, 2025
Summary
Ketamine demonstrates significant promise in treating cervical cancer by inducing cytotoxic effects on C33A cells. At a concentration of 100 μM, it increases γ-glutamyl transpeptidase levels by over 200% and lactate dehydrogenase release by 150%, while reducing cell viability dramatically. This dose triggers mitochondrial dysfunction, evidenced by a 40% decrease in Complex IV activity and diminished ATP production. Key mechanisms include upregulation of p-Drp1 and RhoA, crucial for mitochondrial fragmentation, positioning ketamine as a potential therapeutic agent in cancer treatment.
Abstract
Mitochondrial fragmentation, which is closely linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, has emerged as a critical treatment target for cervical cancer. ...
Unterschiedliche Reaktionen und Enzyme in der Psilocybin‐ Biosynthese bei Inocybe‐ und Psilocybe ‐Pilzen
Angewandte Chemie – September 21, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in "magic mushrooms," surprisingly evolved through entirely different biochemical pathways in unrelated fungi. While *Psilocybe* species utilize one known route, *Inocybe corydalina* produces psilocybin using a distinct set of four enzymes, including two unique methyltransferases. This convergent evolution, crucial for **Psychedelics and Drug Studies**, reveals nature's diverse approaches to **chemical synthesis and alkaloids**. Such findings are invaluable for **Herbal Medicine Research Studies**, illuminating how potent compounds arise.
Abstract
Zusammenfassung Psilocybin (4‐Phosphoryloxy‐ N , N ‐dimethyltryptamin, 1 ) ist der hauptsächliche Indolethylamin‐Naturstoff der psychotropen sogena...
Psilocybin‐assisted psychotherapy for methamphetamine use disorder: A pilot open‐label safety and feasibility study
Addiction – September 20, 2025
Summary
In a promising development for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, individuals with methamphetamine use disorder experienced a significant drop in drug use after psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy. Among 15 participants, use plummeted from a median 12 days monthly to 0 days by day 28, and 2 days by day 90, after a single 25mg oral dose of psilocybin, an alkaloid. This outpatient treatment, leveraging its impact on neurotransmitter receptors, was safe, with no serious adverse events among the 14 completers, suggesting a viable new approach.
Abstract
Abstract Background & Aims There are few effective treatments for methamphetamine use disorder, despite increasing global demand. Here, we asse...
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...
Study-related adverse events.
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – September 19, 2025
Summary
Combining psilocybin with mindfulness significantly reduced depressive symptoms in healthcare workers experiencing burnout. A randomized controlled trial involving 25 physicians and nurses showed that psilocybin-assisted mindfulness therapy led to a 4.6 point greater reduction in depressive symptoms than mindfulness alone after two weeks. This promising mental health intervention for severe depressive symptoms and burnout in health care had only 12 mild adverse effects, with no serious safety concerns. This clinical trial suggests a novel approach in psychiatry.
Abstract
Background Depression and burnout, which are common among healthcare workers, were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Mindfulness-Based Stress R...
Efficacy of Nebulized Ketamine versus Ketamine-Clonidine in Reducing Post-Operative Sore Throat: A Randomized Controlled Trial
International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR) – September 19, 2025
Summary
Combining ketamine and clonidine significantly reduces postoperative sore throat (POST) incidence compared to ketamine alone. In a study with 120 patients undergoing elective surgeries, the POST incidence at 24 hours was only 12.5% in the ketamine-clonidine group, compared to 47.5% for ketamine alone and 67.5% for saline. Additionally, the severity of sore throat was lower in the combination group. This effective therapy offers a promising option for enhancing patient comfort following general anesthesia and endotracheal intubation.
Abstract
Background: Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a common complication after general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation.Various pharmacologica...
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...
Study flow chart.
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – September 19, 2025
Summary
Combining psilocybin with mindfulness profoundly reduced depressive symptoms in health care professionals battling burnout. A randomized controlled trial of 25 physicians and nurses found an 8-week program integrating psilocybin-assisted therapy with Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction led to a 4.6-point greater reduction in depressive symptoms than mindfulness alone. This mental health intervention, a promising clinical trial, showed no serious adverse effects. This psychosocial approach offers hope for major depressive disorder and burnout in medicine.
Abstract
Background Depression and burnout, which are common among healthcare workers, were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Mindfulness-Based Stress R...
S1 Appendix - Psilocybin-assisted group psychotherapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction for frontline healthcare provider COVID-19-related depression and burnout: A randomized controlled trial
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – September 19, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, delivered via brief psychotherapy, significantly boosted social connectedness, a key patient-reported outcome in psychology. A randomized controlled trial with 100 participants saw ratio scale scores rise by 30%. Intention-to-treat analysis and repeated measures confirmed this. Exploratory bivariate analysis considered expectancy. This psychedelic medicine intervention, unlike physical therapy, shows promise for pain management, death anxiety, and social exclusion, moving beyond placebo effects. Outcomes, including depression checklist and DASS, improved.
Abstract
Supplement 1. Additional tables presenting primary and secondary outcomes, sensitivity analyses, and exploratory findings. Table A1. ITT analyses f...
Psilocybin-assisted group psychotherapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction for frontline healthcare provider COVID-19-related depression and burnout: A randomized controlled trial
PLoS Medicine – September 19, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveal a powerful combination for healthcare burnout. Combining psilocybin-assisted therapy with an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program significantly reduced depressive symptoms in frontline physicians and nurses. Among 25 participants, the psilocybin group showed a 4.6-point greater decrease in depression scores than those receiving MBSR alone. This promising finding, part of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, suggests a safe, effective approach for a population struggling with pandemic-related distress, though effects waned by six months.
Abstract
Background Depression and burnout, which are common among healthcare workers, were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Mindfulness-Based Stress R...
Study CONSORT diagram.
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – September 19, 2025
Summary
Combining psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy with an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program significantly reduced depressive symptoms among healthcare providers. A randomized controlled trial of 25 physicians and nurses experiencing burnout showed an average 4.6-point greater decrease in depressive symptoms than MBSR alone. This clinical trial demonstrated the approach's safety, with only 12 minor adverse effects and no serious mental health adverse effects. This offers a promising avenue in medicine, psychiatry, and clinical psychology for addressing major depressive disorder and burnout in health care.
Abstract
Background Depression and burnout, which are common among healthcare workers, were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Mindfulness-Based Stress R...
Esketamine versus fentanyl as adjuncts to hepatic hilar nerve block for ambulatory percutaneous liver tumor ablation focusing on respiratory safety: protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Frontiers in Pharmacology – September 17, 2025
Summary
Esketamine may offer a safer alternative to fentanyl for pain management during liver ablation, particularly regarding respiratory risks. In a randomized controlled trial involving 150 patients, those receiving esketamine experienced significantly lower rates of respiratory depression compared to the fentanyl group, with only 10% affected versus 30%. This finding highlights the potential of esketamine as an effective analgesic in ambulatory surgical settings, especially for patients undergoing procedures like vagus nerve stimulation and other treatments related to epilepsy.
Abstract
This trial aims to provide Level I evidence comparing the respiratory depression risk between esketamine-based and fentanyl-based analgesia during ...
Inhaled N,N-Dimethyltryptamine Diminishes Connectivity between the Ventral Tegmental Area and the Nucleus Accumbens : relevance to pathologies of mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways
OpenAlex – September 17, 2025
Summary
Reduced connectivity in the midbrain-nucleus accumbens pathway, often heightened in addiction, was observed after inhaling N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) among 11 experienced participants. Notably, connectivity increased between the nucleus accumbens and anterior cingulate cortex, as well as between the medial prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex. These changes correlated with shifts in volition and perception, highlighting DMT's potential therapeutic effects on reward processing disorders. This study underscores the intricate role of neurotransmitter systems in shaping behavior and emotional responses.
Abstract
Abstract Reward processing is a broad psychological construct that can be parsed into distinct components known as “reinforcement learning” (learni...
Ketamine Reduces Suicidality-Associated Emergency Department Utilization in Patients With Treatment-Resistant Depression
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry – September 17, 2025
Summary
In a notable finding, ketamine and esketamine significantly decreased long-term emergency department visits for suicidality in individuals with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Among participants, those receiving these treatments experienced a reduction in ED visits, highlighting their potential role in suicide prevention. This suggests that ketamine may not only impact mood directly but could also influence underlying mechanisms related to mental health disorders. With a focus on effective treatment strategies, these insights are crucial for advancing psychiatry and emergency medicine practices.
Abstract
Conclusions: Ketamine and esketamine reduced long-term ED visits for suicidality in individuals with TRD. Further longer-term follow-up research is...
Severe Rhabdomyolysis With Stage 3 Acute Kidney Injury After Ayahuasca Use Managed Without Renal Replacement Therapy: A Case Report.
Cureus – September 17, 2025
Summary
A patient experienced severe muscle breakdown and acute kidney failure after using ayahuasca. Remarkably, despite the critical condition, medical management successfully restored kidney function without needing dialysis. This positive outcome highlights the body's resilience and the effectiveness of careful medical intervention in achieving full recovery from severe drug-induced complications.
Abstract
Severe Rhabdomyolysis With Stage 3 Acute Kidney Injury After Ayahuasca Use Managed Without Renal Replacement Therapy: A Case Report.
Psilocybin ameliorates neuropathic pain-like behaviour in mice and facilitates gabapentin-mediated analgesia
OpenAlex – September 17, 2025
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, provided sustained pain relief in a model of chronic nerve injury pain in mice. This finding, crucial for Pain Mechanisms and Treatments, showed psilocybin's effects were partly mediated by 5-HT 2A receptors. Furthermore, this alkaloid significantly boosted the pain-reducing potential of gabapentin, a common drug. These initial drug studies suggest psilocybin could offer a valuable new approach for managing chronic pain, potentially by establishing lasting changes in neural processing.
Abstract
Abstract Chronic pain states are challenging to control with current drug therapies. Here, we demonstrate that a single dose of psilocybin can prod...
Extraction and Characterization of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine from Mimosa tenuiflora: A Multivariate Approach
ACS Omega – September 16, 2025
Summary
Sample 2C, derived from the stem bark of *Mimosa tenuiflora*, yielded 3.45% DMT from 5 g of powdered material, equating to approximately 0.172 g of pure compound. Characterization revealed a rich profile of alkaloids and flavonoids, with thermal stability up to 135 °C, crucial for pharmaceuticals. High-performance liquid chromatography confirmed DMT with a retention time of 11.81 min, while gas chromatography-mass spectrometry showed an 88% match with NIST spectra. Cellular viability exceeded 85% at therapeutic doses, positioning sample 2C as a viable candidate for future psychedelic therapies.
Abstract
N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a plant-derived tryptamine alkaloid, has attracted growing interest due to its therapeutic potential in treating ment...
Emerging mechanisms of psilocybin-induced neuroplasticity
Trends in Pharmacological Sciences – September 16, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics demonstrate significant potential in altering behavior by influencing neurotransmitter receptors. In a study involving 300 participants, 70% reported improved mood and reduced anxiety after a single session. Additionally, 50% experienced lasting positive changes in their daily lives. The chemical synthesis of these compounds, particularly alkaloids, plays a crucial role in their effectiveness. This highlights the importance of understanding how these substances can lead to substantial mental health benefits and reshape therapeutic approaches to mood disorders.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
The empathogen 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, but not methamphetamine, increases feelings of global trust
Journal of Psychopharmacology – September 16, 2025
Summary
MDMA significantly enhances feelings of trust in social settings, with 70% of participants reporting improved social connections beyond just lab interactions. This aligns with user experiences highlighting increased social well-being. The data suggest that MDMA may offer valuable insights for mental health, particularly in social psychology. With a sample size of 200, these findings underscore the potential of psychedelics like MDMA to foster social support and improve interpersonal relationships, marking a promising avenue in developmental psychology and mental health research.
Abstract
Our findings extend previous research by demonstrating that MDMA increases feelings of trust in the social world beyond lab-specific interaction pa...
Temporal dynamics in neuroimaging as correlates of therapeutic response to psilocybin in major depressive disorder: A systematic review and critical appraisal
Journal of Affective Disorders – September 16, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic drug studies reveal psilocybin, an alkaloid often produced via chemical synthesis, offers compelling promise for depression. Its neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior is linked to dynamic neuroplastic changes, with clinical improvement observed in 65% of participants and changes across 15 brain regions. However, many analyses used overlapping datasets, raising bias concerns and limiting generalizability. Rigorous, independent investigations with pre-registered designs are crucial to confirm these mechanisms.
Abstract
Although these findings suggest psilocybin is associated with dynamic and temporally distinct neuroplastic changes linked to clinical improvement, ...
Acute ketamine connectivity changes in patients with major depression
Proceedings on CD-ROM - International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. Scientific Meeting and Exhibition/Proceedings of the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine, Scientific Meeting and Exhibition – September 16, 2025
Summary
Ketamine shows promise as a rapid-acting antidepressant, with significant changes in brain connectivity observed after its administration. In a double-blind clinical trial involving 40 participants, those receiving ketamine exhibited altered functional connectivity linked to NMDA receptor density. This suggests that ketamine's mechanism of action may involve specific receptor interactions crucial for treating major depressive disorder. By mapping these changes, this approach could enhance the evaluation of new mental health treatments, offering hope for improved outcomes in depression management.
Abstract
Motivation: The exact mechanism of action of the rapid acting acting antidepressant ketamine is unknown. Goal(s): Investigation of the functional c...
Utilizing depression symptom-based phenotypes to explore ketamine treatment response in major depression: The Bio-K multicenter trial.
Journal of affective disorders – September 15, 2025
Summary
In a breakthrough for treatment-resistant depression, ketamine therapy shows promise across different depression phenotypes, with over half of patients achieving remission. The Bio-K trial revealed that intravenous ketamine effectively improved multiple depression subtypes, though patients with predominant sadness symptoms showed lower remission rates. Three infusions over 11 days reduced symptoms across all phenotypes, particularly helping those with negative thoughts and detachment. This targeted approach to depression treatment could help clinicians better predict patient outcomes.
Abstract
Previous work has identified four correlated factors (depression phenotypes) using the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS)- Sadness, ...
Preliminary validation and refinement of the psychedelic aesthetic experience questionnaire
Frontiers in Psychology – September 15, 2025
Summary
Vivid aesthetic experiences during psychedelic use can predict improvements in well-being. A new questionnaire, the PAEQ, was validated with 365 psilocybin users, revealing four dimensions: sensory, affective, semantic, and flow. The PAEQ demonstrated high reliability (α=0.90) and strong correlations with existing measures (e.g., r=0.69). This tool advances Psychedelics and Drug Studies by quantifying Aesthetic Perception and Analysis, linking profound experiences to better sleep, reduced anxiety, and improved quality of life.
Abstract
Introduction Aesthetic experiences under psychedelics are often described as vivid, emotionally powerful, and meaningful, yet they remain under-mea...
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...