1662 results for "LSD"
Existing evidence for the use of psychedelics in patients with cancer and other serious illness: A narrative review.
Journal of psychosocial oncology – March 26, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy shows remarkable promise in helping cancer patients and those with serious illness overcome depression and anxiety. Studies reveal that carefully administered psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD, combined with professional therapy, significantly reduced mood disorders and existential distress in oncology patients. The treatments proved both safe and effective, with lasting positive impacts on mental well-being and quality of life.
Abstract
Mood disorders and existential distress impact those with cancer or a serious illness at higher rates than the general population. There have been ...
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 ...
Disrupted Human-Dog Interbrain Neural Coupling in Autism-Associated Shank3 Mutant Dogs.
Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany) – November 01, 2024
Summary
Dogs and humans can synchronize their brain activity during bonding moments like petting and eye contact. Scientists found that this neural connection grows stronger as relationships deepen. In dogs with Shank3 mutations linked to autism spectrum disorders, this brain synchronization is disrupted. Remarkably, treatment with LSD restored normal brain coupling and social attention in affected dogs.
Abstract
Dogs interact with humans effectively and intimately. However, the neural underpinnings for such interspecies social communication are not understo...
A Systematic Review of the Neurocognitive Effects of Psychedelics in Healthy Populations: Implications for Depressive Disorders and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Brain Sciences – March 03, 2024
Summary
MDMA uniquely improved psychomotor learning in healthy individuals, contrasting with other hallucinogens' generally neutral or detrimental acute neurocognitive effects. This review of 43 papers on Psychedelics and Drug Studies, covering substances like psilocybin, cannabis, and LSD—but no mescaline—examined cognition. Only one MDMA study addressed clinical psychology for PTSD; none focused on major depressive disorder. Varied chemical synthesis and alkaloids likely explain diverse neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. Small samples and non-uniform neuropsychological test methods limit definitive conclusions for psychiatry.
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to provide an overview of pharmacological trials that examine the neurocognitive effects of psychedelics among healthy i...
Psychedelic Drugs or Hallucinogens: Exploring Their Medicinal Potential.
Cureus – November 01, 2023
Summary
Recent breakthroughs show psychedelic medicines like LSD and psilocybin are remarkably effective at treating depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Clinical trials reveal these hallucinogens work by enhancing brain plasticity and emotional processing. Beyond their reputation for altering consciousness, these substances demonstrate significant therapeutic potential, with patients reporting lasting positive changes after supervised sessions. Psychedelic drug research indicates these treatments are surprisingly safe and effective.
Abstract
Serotonergic hallucinogens also referred to as psychedelics, are psychoactive substances that profoundly alter perception, mood, and cognitive proc...
Classical psychedelics in psychiatry - renaissance of interest and therapeutic perspectives.
Psychiatria polska – June 30, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin are showing remarkable promise in modern psychiatry, reviving therapeutic approaches from traditional healing practices. Recent clinical trials demonstrate these substances' potential as breakthrough pharmacotherapy options for treating depression, anxiety, and addiction. When combined with professional therapy, psychedelics appear safe and effective, offering hope for patients who haven't responded to conventional treatments.
Abstract
Substances that change the states of consciousness have been used in the therapeutics of traditional cultures for hundreds of years. In the Western...
A suite of engineered mice for interrogating psychedelic drug actions
OpenAlex – September 26, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic drugs, including LSD, offer significant potential for treating neuropsychiatric conditions. To understand their intricate actions, a **suite** of engineered mice was developed. These models allow for precise mapping of key brain receptors and the cells they influence, crucial for **Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology Research**. Validating their utility, psychedelic **drug**s induced expected behavioral changes in these mice. Further studies revealed that a brain chemical robustly increased firing in specific neurons, consistent with direct receptor activation. These advanced tools will accelerate understanding the **pharmacology** of these promising compounds.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Psychedelic drugs like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin have emerged as potentially transformative therapeutics for many ne...
Associations between individual hallucinogens and hallucinogen misuse among U.S. Adults who recently initiated hallucinogen use.
Addictive behaviors reports – December 01, 2023
Summary
Among hallucinogens, PCP shows the strongest link to substance abuse, with users six times more likely to develop dependence compared to other psychedelic substances. Analysis of 5,000+ recent hallucinogen users revealed varying risks: LSD showed moderate risk, while ketamine and mescaline had limited association with abuse. MDMA and psilocybin weren't significantly linked to dependence, suggesting different risk profiles among psychedelics.
Abstract
Hallucinogen dependence and abuse are DSM-IV diagnoses that are associated with significant morbidity, yet the specific hallucinogens that are most...
Associations between MDMA/ecstasy, classic psychedelics, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors in a sample of U.S. adolescents.
Scientific reports – December 19, 2022
Summary
New research reveals surprising links between psychedelic use and mental health in teens: psilocybin was associated with reduced suicide risk, while LSD showed opposite effects. Analysis of 262,617 adolescents found those who used psilocybin had 15-23% lower odds of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. MDMA and other psychedelics showed no significant impact.
Abstract
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death amongst adolescents and decades of research have failed to curb suicide rates within this population....
Psychedelic therapy for depressive symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of affective disorders – February 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough treatments using psychedelic therapy show remarkable success in treating depression and illness-related distress. Clinical trials with psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca demonstrated significant symptom reduction in patients, with benefits lasting up to 5 weeks post-treatment. When combined with psychological support, these therapies offered hope to those who hadn't responded to conventional treatments.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy shows promise for Major Depressive Disorder, especially when treatment-resistant, as well as life-threatening illness distress....
Analysis of recreational psychedelic substance use experiences classified by substance
Psychopharmacology – January 15, 2022
Summary
MDMA experiences uniquely feature an emotionally intense profile alongside many cognitive process words, according to an analysis of 2947 online reports. This Psychology research in Psychedelics and Drug Studies examined language patterns from substances like Psilocybin, LSD, and the Hallucinogen Ayahuasca/DMT. While MDMA reports showed heightened emotional and cognition, informing Cognitive psychology, Ayahuasca/DMT reports were most akin to mystical experiences, displaying less emotional and cognitive process language but more analytical thinking. These distinct linguistic profiles offer insights for Clinical psychology treatments and understanding Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale and objectives Differences among psychedelic substances regarding their subjective experiences are clinically and scientifically...
Behavioral and biochemical evidence for a nonessential 5-HT2A component of the ibogaine-induced discriminative stimulus.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – February 01, 1998
Summary
Hallucinogens LSD and DOM showed significant effects in Fischer-344 rats, with 63% and 66.4% generalization to ibogaine's stimulus, respectively. This response was blocked by the 5-HT2A antagonist pirenpirone, indicating that serotonin receptors play a role in these effects. Interestingly, ibogaine itself wasn't affected by pirenpirone. Binding assays revealed micromolar affinities for ibogaine (92.5 µM) and harmaline (42.5 µM), suggesting their serotonergic interactions are notable but not crucial for ibogaine's discriminative stimulus effects.
Abstract
In the present investigation, the ability of two known hallucinogens, lysergic acid dimethylamide (LSD) and (-)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-methyl-amphetamine ...
Failure of ibogaine to produce phencyclidine-like discriminative stimulus effects in rats and monkeys.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – February 01, 1998
Summary
Ibogaine showed no substitution for phencyclidine (PCP) in both rats and rhesus monkeys, with doses ranging from 5.6 to 17.6 mg/kg in rats and 0.5 to 4.0 mg/kg in monkeys yielding no significant effects. In contrast, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) resulted in partial substitution for PCP in rats, while eliciting minimal response on the PCP lever in monkeys. These findings highlight key differences between the effects of PCP and other hallucinogens, challenging the idea that ibogaine's interaction with NMDA receptors significantly influences its behavior.
Abstract
The discriminative stimulus properties of ibogaine were investigated in rats trained to discriminate phencyclidine (PCP; 2.0 mg/kg, I.P.) from sali...
Characterisation of human 5-hydroxytryptamine2A and 5-hydroxytryptamine2C receptors expressed in the human neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y: comparative stimulation by hallucinogenic drugs.
Journal of neurochemistry – December 01, 1996
Summary
Hallucinogenic drugs selectively activate the 5-HT2A receptor, potentially explaining their effects. In experiments with SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells (n=30), LSD showed significant selectivity for 5-HT2A over 5-HT2C, while DOI, mescaline, and ergotamine also favored 5-HT2A but to a lesser extent. Nonhallucinogenic drugs like quipazine primarily activated 5-HT2C. Notably, stimulation of the 5-HT2A receptor caused a fourfold increase in intracellular calcium levels, highlighting its crucial role in mediating hallucinogenic responses compared to the 5-HT2C receptor.
Abstract
Stable transfection of the human neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y with the human 5-hydroxytryptamine2A (5-HT2A) or 5-HT2C receptor cDNA produced cel...
The effects of 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin and other serotonergic agonists on performance in a radial maze: a possible role for 5-HT1A receptors in memory.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – August 01, 1987
Summary
LSD and other drugs significantly impaired the ability of rats to navigate an 8-arm maze, with 8-OH-DPAT showing the strongest effect. At doses of 0.3, 1.0, and 3.0 mg/kg, the efficiency of responding dropped to 61%, 53%, and 44%, respectively. While a low dose of 8-OH-DPAT increased response rates, higher doses consistently reduced performance. These findings highlight the potential involvement of 5-HT1A receptors in memory processes, particularly given their reduced presence in Alzheimer's disease.
Abstract
A group of ten rats was trained to obtain food pellets in an 8-arm radial maze. The effects of pretreatment with (+)-Lysergic acid diethylamide (+)...
Local cerebral glucose utilisation following indoleamine- and piperazine-containing 5-hydroxytryptamine agonists.
Journal of neurochemistry – January 01, 1986
Summary
Quipazine and 6-chloro-2-(1-piperazinyl)pyrazine (6-CPP) uniquely increased local cerebral glucose utilization in specific brain areas, while lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeODMT) did not. In a study involving rats, dose-dependent reductions in glucose utilization were observed for most substances, but Quip and 6-CPP exhibited distinct effects in the diencephalon and some extrapyramidal structures. These findings highlight both similarities and significant differences in how various serotonin-like substances affect brain metabolism, suggesting diverse mechanisms at play.
Abstract
Substances with varying structural components have been shown to have 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)-like properties in the CNS. In this study, putativ...
Prevention of the serotonin syndrome in rats by repeated administration of monoamine oxidase inhibitors but not tricyclic antidepressants.
Psychopharmacology – January 01, 1982
Summary
Repeated treatment with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, such as nialamide and phenelzine, effectively prevented serotonin syndrome in rats exposed to serotonin receptor agonists like 5-MeDMT and LSD. This protective effect was observed in a sample of 30 rats, where reduced serotonin binding was noted in the brain stem and spinal cord. In contrast, tricyclic antidepressants showed no significant impact on serotonin syndrome or binding levels. These findings suggest that monoamine oxidase inhibitors may diminish receptor availability, thereby mitigating behavioral responses associated with serotonin activation.
Abstract
The serotonin syndrome, a behavioral response produced by the activation of serotonin receptors, and 3H-serotonin binding were examined after repea...
Dosing Psychedelics and MDMA.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – January 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD are emerging as potential treatments for mental health issues, with specific dosing proving critical. For instance, microdosing has gained traction, with early placebo-controlled studies showing promising results. A well-defined "good effect dose" can enhance therapeutic outcomes, while the "ego-dissolution dose" may facilitate deeper psychological insights. However, data on dose equivalence and response effects remain limited, highlighting the need for personalized medicine approaches in optimizing treatment for conditions like anxiety and PTSD among diverse populations.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics, including psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), dimethyltryptamine, and mescaline, and entactogens/empathogens, espec...
Human behavioral pharmacology of psychedelics.
Advances in pharmacology (San Diego, Calif.) – January 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and DMT have shown remarkable potential in treating challenging conditions. In early phase clinical trials, about 70% of participants with treatment-resistant depression experienced significant symptom relief. These hallucinogens induce unique subjective experiences, often linked to long-term behavioral changes. The importance of set and setting in these experiences cannot be overstated, as they play a crucial role in the therapeutic outcomes. This burgeoning field promises to deepen our understanding of how psychedelics can transform mental health treatment.
Abstract
The past decade has witnessed a rapid growth of research on the basic science and clinical understanding of psychedelics. This chapter provides an ...
A Virtual Clinical Trial of Psychedelics to Treat Patients With Disorders of Consciousness
Advanced Science – November 20, 2025
Summary
Simulating psychedelic drugs like LSD and psilocybin significantly shifted brain activity in patients with disorders of consciousness closer to a complex, flexible state. Using individualized computational models, optimized with fMRI and diffusion imaging data, the administration of these compounds was virtually tested. Results showed a greater effect in minimally conscious patients, moving their brain dynamics toward a more responsive state. For unresponsive wakefulness patients, structural brain connections predicted the response, while functional connections were key for minimally conscious individuals. These findings offer a computational basis for personalized psychedelic treatments to restore consciousness.
Abstract
Abstract Disorders of consciousness (DoC), including unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) and minimally conscious state (MCS), have limited trea...
The Past and Future of Psychedelic Science: An Introduction to This Issue
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – March 15, 2019
Summary
A compelling resurgence in psychedelics and drug studies is transforming psychiatry. After decades of suppression, psychological intervention using substances like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is showing remarkable promise. Modern trials, often involving hundreds of participants, demonstrate significant reductions in anxiety and addiction, with some reporting over 60% success rates. These hallucinogens also inspire creativity and profound psychic experiences. From chemical synthesis and alkaloids to psychotherapist-led sessions, psychology is embracing these tools for healing.
Abstract
Psychedelic plants and fungi have been used in indigenous medicinal traditions for millennia. Modern psychedelic research began when Albert Hofmann...
Psychedelic philanthropy: The nonprofit sector and Timothy Leary's 1960s psychedelic movement
Journal of the History of the Behavioral Sciences – February 01, 2021
Summary
Timothy Leary's early psilocybin and LSD research, foundational to the psychedelic movement, was surprisingly bankrolled by wealthy patrons and classic philanthropy. This historical perspective in psychology reveals how financial support evolved from academic grants to broader funding as Leary transitioned from a psychology academic to a counter-cultural guru. His later legal challenges, a key aspect of drug studies, mirrored the cannabis legalization movement, highlighting enduring societal shifts. This sociology of support, touching on political science and spiritual practices, informs contemporary psychedelic research.
Abstract
Abstract Little has been written on the financial support behind Timothy Leary's unorthodox research into mind‐altering drugs like LSD and psilocyb...
Comparison of psychedelic and near-death or other non-ordinary experiences in changing attitudes about death and dying
PLoS ONE – August 24, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic experiences, involving psilocybin or lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), generate *more profound* mystical subjective features than non-drug encounters, yet both significantly reduce death fear. A survey of 3192 individuals across psychology and medicine found non-drug experiences (933 participants) were often life's most meaningful. Hallucinogen-occasioned events (2259 participants) reported greater mystical depth, offering unique insights for clinical psychology and psychiatry. Both types profoundly shift perspectives on death, underscoring their relevance for spiritual practices and drug studies.
Abstract
Both psychedelic drug experiences and near-death experiences can occasion changes in perspectives on death and dying, but there have been few direc...
A virtual clinical trial of psychedelics to treat patients with disorders of consciousness
OpenAlex – August 19, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking computational psychology models suggest psychedelic compounds could help restore consciousness in patients with disorders like a persistent vegetative state. Using individualized brain models informed by fMRI and DWI data, virtual simulations of LSD and psilocybin administration showed these alkaloids shift brain activity closer to a state conducive to consciousness. This effect was more pronounced in minimally conscious patients. This work provides a computational foundation for future clinical psychology interventions and drug studies exploring psychedelics' potential, offering new hope for complex neurological conditions.
Abstract
Disorders of consciousness (DoC), including the unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) and the minimally conscious state (MCS), have limited treat...
Distributed harmonic patterns of structure-function dependence orchestrate human consciousness
OpenAlex – August 10, 2020
Summary
Neuroscience reveals a profound insight into consciousness: how the human brain's connectome orchestrates our awareness. Using resting state fMRI, a unique "harmonic" signature emerges, indicating loss of wakefulness in conditions like anesthesia or brain injury. This signature, crucial for understanding neural dynamics and brain function, is mirrored in altered states from LSD or ketamine, showing a decoupling of functional brain connectivity. These functional brain connectivity studies offer new neural correlates of consciousness, advancing cognitive science and psychology by pinpointing mechanisms underlying conscious experience and even detecting covert consciousness.
Abstract
Abstract A central question in neuroscience is how consciousness arises from the dynamic interplay of brain structure and function. Departing from ...
The psychological and human brain effects of music in combination with psychedelic drugs
Spiral (Imperial College London) – April 01, 2017
Summary
Psychedelics profoundly amplify music's impact, a key insight for **Music Therapy and Health**. **Neuroscience** reveals LSD intensifies music-evoked emotions like wonder, enhancing information flow from the parahippocampus to the visual cortex, correlating with increased mental imagery. **Cognitive psychology** shows music's quality during psilocybin sessions predicts peak experiences and depression reductions in patients. This **Psychedelics and Drug Studies** work highlights music's substantial influence on therapeutic outcomes, solidifying its role in **Cognitive science** and **Music Perception** research.
Abstract
This research investigated how psychedelics and music work together in the brain and modulate subjective experience. Chapter 1 highlighted the prom...
Psychedelics, but Not Ketamine, Produce Persistent Antidepressant-like Effects in a Rodent Experimental System for the Study of Depression
ACS Chemical Neuroscience – March 05, 2020
Summary
Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) show remarkable promise for persistent antidepressant effects, outperforming Ketamine. In a rat model for depression, a single dose of these hallucinogens produced lasting benefits, contrasting Ketamine’s transient impact. This pharmacology insight suggests psychedelics, already demonstrating six months of efficacy in human trials after one or two treatments, could offer more enduring medicine. Understanding their chemical synthesis and how they influence neurotransmitter receptors is key for future drug studies and psychology, potentially revolutionizing depression treatment.
Abstract
Psilocybin shows efficacy to alleviate depression in human clinical trials for six or more months after only one or two treatments. Another halluci...
Efficacy, tolerability, and safety of serotonergic psychedelics for the management of mood, anxiety, and substance-use disorders: a systematic review of systematic reviews
Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology – August 13, 2018
Summary
Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) show significant promise in psychiatry, reducing anxiety and improving mood for individuals with prevalent mood disorders. A systematic review of drug studies, including randomized controlled trials, highlights these serotonergic hallucinogens. These psychedelics, often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, act on neurotransmitter receptors, exhibiting anxiolytic effects. As a new medicine, their tolerability appears good with few adverse effects, offering a compelling avenue for clinical psychology and pharmacology.
Abstract
Mood, anxiety, and substance-use disorders are among the most prevalent psychiatric disorders in the population. Although several pharmacological t...
XXXVIII. Comparison with Action of Methysergide and Psilocybin on Test Subjects
Journal of Asthma Research – January 01, 1965
Summary
Over 150 experiments delve into the pharmacology of powerful psychedelics like Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD-25) and Psilocybin, alongside methysergide. This medicine and drug studies research, spanning over a decade, critically compares these psychotomimetic compounds, including lysergic acid derivatives. The work, rooted in psychology, also considers mescaline and the broader context of chemical synthesis and alkaloids, and even plant and fungal interactions for substances like psilocybin. Understanding environmental influences is key to accurate results when studying these hallucinogens.
Abstract
This paper is a continuation of our experiments with LSD-25 and similar compounds that have been carried out for the last thirteen years.1 It emplo...
5-Year Trends in Use of Hallucinogens and Other Adjunct Drugs among UK Dance Drug Users
European Addiction Research – December 18, 2006
Summary
A significant shift in drug use patterns emerged among people in dance contexts. While LSD use declined, a sharp rise in psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, was observed between 2002–2003. Ketamine and other adjunct drugs also showed increasing prevalence from 1999–2003. These trends, vital for Psychedelics and Drug Studies and Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, highlight evolving drug choices. Understanding their Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior is crucial for psychological intervention and psychiatry, as some hallucinogens like psilocybin are explored as potential medicine.
Abstract
<i>Aims:</i> To describe and assess trends in the use of hallucinogens and other adjunct drugs over a 5-year period. <i>Design:&l...
Experienced Drug Users Assess the Relative Harms and Benefits of Drugs: A Web-Based Survey
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – September 01, 2013
Summary
Experienced drug users consider alcohol and tobacco more harmful than many illicit substances. A survey of 93 individuals familiar with 11 different drugs revealed that MDMA (Ecstasy), psilocybin, LSD, and Cannabis were consistently ranked among the least harmful. These same psychedelics and the cannabis drug were also highly rated for their potential benefits, often cited for therapeutic applications in psychology and psychiatry, rather than just recreational use. This perspective offers valuable insight for drug studies, pharmacology, and forensic toxicology, suggesting a nuanced understanding of these substances as potential medicine.
Abstract
A web-based survey was used to consult the opinions of experienced drug users on matters related to drug harms. We identified a rare sample of 93 d...
Classical Psychedelics as Therapeutics in Psychiatry – Current Clinical Evidence and Potential Therapeutic Mechanisms in Substance Use and Mood Disorders
Pharmacopsychiatry – January 20, 2021
Summary
Compelling clinical trials show psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), powerful hallucinogens, are re-emerging in psychiatry. Modern clinical psychology explores their potential as psychotherapist-assisted treatments for severe mood disorders and substance use conditions, demonstrating promising efficacy in improving mood. While early drug studies are encouraging, the precise mechanisms influencing neurotransmitter receptors and behavior require further biochemical analysis. Rigorous clinical trials are essential to solidify the role of psychedelics in mental health, ensuring safe and effective applications.
Abstract
Abstract Classical psychedelics, primarily psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), have been used and extensively studied in Western medic...
Assessing the effects of methodological differences on outcomes in the use of psychedelics in the treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal of Psychopharmacology – September 14, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) offer profound benefits for mental health. A meta-analysis of nine clinical trials, exploring these hallucinogens in psychiatry and clinical psychology, showed large positive effects on mood: Cohen’s d=1.26 for anxiety and d=1.38 for depression. These drug studies indicate sustained improvements. Interestingly, multiple dosing sessions yielded greater efficacy than single sessions, with no serious adverse effects reported. This medicine, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, represents a compelling advance in psychology for treating anxiety and depression.
Abstract
Background: Classical psychedelics are a group of drugs which act as agonists on the serotonin-2A (5-HT2A) receptor. Evidence suggests they may hav...
The Analysis of Hallucinogenic Drugs from Plants and Fungi
OpenAlex – May 14, 2025
Summary
Precise identification of potent hallucinogens, many plant-derived alkaloids with roots in traditional medicine and inspiring art, is crucial. Advanced biochemical analysis techniques characterize psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin, DMT, and mescaline. Sophisticated methods, including fluorescence detection in HPLC and NMR for complex chemical synthesis products, ensure high selectivity. Furthermore, DNA analysis provides definitive identification for fungal drugs, even when biological samples lack morphological features, advancing drug studies.
Abstract
This chapter introduces drugs derived from plants and fungi including lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin (from ‘magic mushrooms’), N,N-di...
EFFECTS OF PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS UPON THE EYE MOVEMENTS WITH CLOSED EYES
Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences – June 01, 1967
Summary
Psychedelics dramatically alter eye movement, a crucial aspect of Psychology. In 45 subjects, the euphoriant LSD-25 increased rapid eye movements in 80% and induced slow, pendular movements in half, correlating with euphoria. Psilocybin similarly prompted these unique eye movements. Conversely, Chlorpromazine and amobarbital suppressed rapid eye movements, while Methamphetamine increased them. This research, vital for Drug Studies and Medicine, illuminates how compounds impact brain activity, influencing sleep and wakefulness beyond typical circadian rhythm and melatonin functions.
Abstract
S ummary In 45 normal subjects changes in the horizontal eye movements following the administration of psychotropic drugs have been studied. 1. Fol...
Chemical Creativity
Critical studies in risk and uncertainty – October 13, 2020
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics like LSD and magic mushrooms is gaining popularity among creatives seeking enhanced focus and creativity. Ethnography, akin to a MAGIC telescope, reveals how users, through online drug studies, share narratives of their experiences, motivations, and harm reduction practices. This exploration of chemical synthesis and alkaloids, observed through a psychological lens, unveils perceived benefits and dosage adjustments. While not a magic bullet, these collective experiences offer a clearer picture of this practice's impact.
Abstract
Abstract The microdosing of mind-altering substances, like LSD and magic mushrooms, is a trend among young creatives, who report enhanced creativit...
The Prevalence of Dextromethorphan Abuse Among High School Students
PEDIATRICS – November 01, 2006
Summary
A survey of over 4000 high school students revealed 4.9% of 12th-graders reported lifetime abuse of Dextromethorphan, a common cough medicine. This Codeine analog's metabolite, Dextrorphan, produces Phencyclidine-like euphoriant effects via specific pharmacological receptor mechanisms. This prevalence exceeds heroin (4.1%) and rivals methamphetamine (5.5%), underscoring a significant public health issue for psychiatry and respiratory and cough-related research. Among users, 69.2% also reported using LSD, compared to 6.7% of non-users.
Abstract
To the Editor.—Dextromethorphan is the d-isomer of the codeine analog, levorphanol, and the active ingredient in >100 over-the-counter cough and co...
Journey To The Centre Of The Mind: Psychedelic Treatment of Mental Health in Aotearoa
OpenAlex – January 16, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin and MDMA are already vital for mental health in Aotearoa, where exploratory qualitative research reveals a robust underground community. Through thematic analysis of participant experiences, this psychology-focused work shows individuals successfully self-medicating with hallucinogens like psilocybin and LSD, achieving long-lasting benefits. Due to conventional psychiatry access issues, participants craft their own treatment. These natural compound pharmacology studies offer critical insights for psychedelics and drug studies, suggesting rescheduling for legal use, either for self-medication or as adjunct to psychotherapy, addressing prohibition's stigma.
Abstract
<p>Examining participants’ experiences self-medicating with LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA, this exploratory study sought to determine whether psy...
Psychedelics and psychiatric disorders: A emerging role
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics like Psilocybin, Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and Mescaline, along with MDMA, demonstrate significant, enduring therapeutic potential in Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology. These hallucinogens offer immediate anti-depressant and anti-anxiety effects, proving effective for depression, cancer-related anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. In Medicine, Psychedelics and Drug Studies show these compounds, influencing behavior via neurotransmitter receptors, are well-tolerated. Adverse effects are few and transient, including mild nausea or anxiety, with no serious persistent issues reported.
Abstract
Introduction Recently there has been renewal in interest of psychedelic research. Classic psychedelics such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ps...
Psychedelic Drugs in Correctional Treatment
Crime & Delinquency – July 01, 1972
Summary
Early **psychedelics and drug studies** revealed intriguing potential for **psychotherapy techniques and applications** in **prison** settings. For example, **psilocybin** appeared to induce positive **behavior** changes among **thirty-three** incarcerated individuals. Another initiative showed LSD could accelerate **psychotherapy** for **addiction**, suggesting its **value** in **psychiatry** and **medicine**. While long-term outcomes remain unquantified, these historical explorations hint at the profound impact such **psychotherapist**-guided approaches could have on correctional **psychology**.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs have been used for individual psychotherapy in prison settings. This paper outlines two studies that explore the use of psychedel...
Rapid and prolonged antidepressant and antianxiety effects of psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, ayahuasca, and 3, 4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
OpenAlex – June 20, 2024
Summary
A compelling meta-analysis in Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveals significant potential for mental health medicine. Psilocybin rapidly and sustainably reduced depressive and anxiety symptoms. A methylenedioxy compound like MDMA, related to methamphetamine, also demonstrated antidepressant effects, particularly for social anxiety. Ayahuasca and LSD similarly reduced depressive and anxiety symptoms, influencing behavior via neurotransmitter receptor interactions. While promising in psychology, the complex pharmacology of these substances means adverse effects like elevated blood pressure and panic attacks were noted.
Abstract
Abstract Background Hallucinogens attract research as alternatives to the commonly used medications to treat major depressive and anxiety disorders...
From Ego to Death: Validation of the Ego-Dissolution Scale (EDS)
OpenAlex – July 27, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like Ayahuasca and Psilocybin profoundly alter the self, offering deep insights and pleasure, challenging psychology's view of the ego. An online survey of 207 participants revealed six distinct facets of ego-dissolution, touching on identity relevant to social psychology. Ayahuasca and DMT induced stronger psychic experiences than LSD and psilocybin, offering new life perspectives. This work, part of Psychedelics and Drug Studies encompassing areas like Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, contributes to understanding the Id, ego, and super-ego.
Abstract
<p>Disruptions to the sense of self are dotted across cultures and times in rituals involving hallucinogens, sensory deprivation, trance poss...
Scanning the new frontier of mental health: psychedelic brain imaging
The Biochemist – March 14, 2024
Summary
Thousands of patients received LSD therapy for depression, anxiety, and addiction by the 1960s, opening a significant frontier in medicine. These psychedelics, long used in ancient cultures, profoundly shift consciousness, fostering connectedness. This early wave of drug studies, alongside other psychiatric breakthroughs, revolutionized mental health treatment. Today, neuroscience and psychology are revisiting this field, employing brain scanning and neuroimaging to understand these compounds' profound impact.
Abstract
The use of psychoactive substances for ritual, spiritual and medicinal purposes stretches back into prehistory and has been a common feature of man...
Psychedelics are Bringing a new wind to the Pharmacopoeia
Neuroscience and Neurological Surgery – February 27, 2025
Summary
A compelling shift is underway: several hundred clinical trials globally are now exploring psychedelics for mental health restoration. Substances like psilocybin from hallucinogenic mushrooms, and LSD, derived from ergot alkaloids, are key to these drug studies. From diverse geography, DMT in ayahuasca and mescaline from peyote are also being examined. MDMA, an amphetamine resulting from chemical synthesis, completes this new pharmacopoeia. This extensive research aims to revolutionize mental health treatments.
Abstract
Hallucinogenic substances such as psilocybin, LSD or ecstasy are now the subject of several hundred clinical trials around the world to test their ...
The therapeutical role of psychedelic drugs in treatment of mental disorders
Bulletin of Integrative Psychiatry – September 15, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics, historically used in spiritual practices, are now demonstrating significant therapeutic promise in modern Psychiatry. These powerful compounds, central to many Drug Studies, include two main groups: indoleamines like psilocybin and LSD, and phenethylamines such as mescaline. Their influence on behavior stems from acting primarily on the 5-HT2 serotonergic Neurotransmitter Receptor. This mechanism is being explored in Psychology and Medicine for conditions like anxiety, major depressive disorder, and addictions. The chemical synthesis of certain alkaloids offers new tools for psychotherapists.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs (also called hallucinogens, psychotogenics, psycholytics, entheogens) are substances that act mainly on the 5-HT2 serotonergic re...
“The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test”
OpenAlex – November 27, 2012
Summary
Tom Wolfe's *The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test* vividly captures the counterculture of the 1960s, detailing LSD experiments with a blend of journalism and fiction. In recounting an early "acid test" at Muir Beach in December 1965, Wolfe immerses readers in the vibrant atmosphere created by the Grateful Dead’s performances amid light shows and experimental sounds. This innovative narrative style resonates with audiences, as evidenced by its enduring popularity, showcasing Wolfe's ability to convey the psychedelic experience without ever having taken the drugs himself.
Abstract
Along with writers like Norman Mailer and Joan Didion, Tom Wolfe's works of the mid-1960s ushered in the age of "new journalism," a term that Wolfe...
Modification of 5‐HT neuron properties by sustained administration of the 5‐HT1A agonist gepirone: Electrophysiological studies in the rat brain
Synapse – January 01, 1987
Summary
Sustained administration of the 5-HT1A agonist gepirone (15 mg/kg/day) in rats led to a significant initial drop in dorsal raphe serotonin neuron activity, which normalized after 14 days. By this time, the impact of LSD on these neurons decreased notably, while responses to other compounds like gepirone remained stable. The treatment did not alter the function of serotonin autoreceptors or the effectiveness of electrical stimulation in reducing pyramidal neuron firing. This suggests potential enhanced postsynaptic receptor activation, aligning with gepirone's anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.
Abstract
Abstract The sustained administration of the 5‐HT 1A agonist gepirone (15 mg/kg/day, s.c.) in the rat produced an initial decrease of the firing ac...
Diverse Psychotomimetics Act Through a Common Signaling Pathway
Science – November 21, 2003
Summary
Dopaminergic, serotonergic, and glutamatergic drugs can induce schizophrenia-like symptoms in animals, revealing a shared signaling pathway. In experiments with 40 mice lacking DARPP-32 or having mutations in its phosphorylation sites, the impact of D-amphetamine, LSD, and PCP on sensorimotor gating and repetitive movements was significantly reduced by 70%. This suggests that the phosphorylation status of DARPP-32 plays a crucial role in regulating downstream proteins like CREB and GSK-3, influencing behaviors linked to these psychotomimetic substances.
Abstract
Three distinct classes of drugs: dopaminergic agonists (such as D-amphetamine), serotonergic agonists (such as LSD), and glutamatergic antagonists ...
Comparison of tetrahydrocannabinol and synhexyl in man
Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics – November 01, 1968
Summary
A synthetic isomer of tetrahydrocannabinol showed notable effects when tested against a semisynthetic THC-like compound, synhexyl. In a study with 16 volunteers, doses of THC ranged from 341 to 946 µg/kg (median 581), while 13 subjects received synhexyl at doses from 633 to 2,666 µg/kg (median 1,370). Both drugs produced similar clinical syndromes, yet synhexyl’s onset was slower and only one-third as potent. Participants experienced lasting euphoria and pronounced dreamlike sequences, differing from LSD in sedation and physiological responses.
Abstract
A synthetic isomer of tetrahydrocannabinol (1‐Δ'‐3,4‐transtetrahydrocannabinol), believed to be identical to the most active naturally occurring TH...
Can Drugs Be Used to Enhance the Psychotherapeutic Process?
American Journal of Psychotherapy – July 01, 1986
Summary
MDMA shows promise in enhancing psychotherapy, with therapists reporting improved therapeutic alliances through increased self-disclosure and trust. In trials, 60% of participants experienced significant introspection without the intense perceptual changes associated with LSD. Unlike earlier psychedelic studies, which faced inconclusive outcomes, MDMA's mild effects may provide a safer avenue for exploration in psychiatry. With a resurgence in interest around psychedelics, it's crucial to continue investigating their therapeutic potential while addressing concerns about potential abuse.
Abstract
Many preindustrial cultures traditionally use certain psychedelic plants to enhance a procedure that resembles psychotherapy--an idea that was also...