1299 results for "MDMA"
Psychoactive substance use in patients diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: an exploratory study
Frontiers in Psychiatry – July 11, 2023
Summary
Over 50% of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder patients experience symptoms into adulthood, often turning to psychoactive substances for relief. A survey of 438 individuals with ADHD revealed frequent stimulant use, including MDMA (Ecstasy) and Amphetamine. While Methylphenidate is commonly prescribed in Psychiatry, many self-medicate. This highlights a critical need in clinical psychology and medicine for proper Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder diagnosis in the population using such substances, leading to better management and reduced reliance on illicit drugs.
Abstract
Introduction Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was originally treated as a neurodevelopmental disorder that occurs mainly in children...
The Canadian Psychedelic Survey: Characteristics, Patterns of Use, and Access in a Large Sample of People Who Use Psychedelic Drugs.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – June 01, 2023
Summary
A groundbreaking survey reveals that 82% of psychedelic users in Canada report intense positive experiences, with many citing mental well-being and personal growth as key motivations. The nationwide study of 2,045 participants found psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD as the most common substances used. Notably, even among those who faced challenging experiences, over half found value in the difficulty afterward.
Abstract
Recent years have seen a resurgence in clinical interest in, and increased public acceptance of, psychedelic drugs in Canada. However, our understa...
3,4-Methylenedioxy methamphetamine, synthetic cathinones and psychedelics: From recreational to novel psychotherapeutic drugs
Frontiers in Psychiatry – October 03, 2022
Summary
Psychoactive substances offer a promising alternative for psychiatric disorders resistant to conventional medicine. MDMA, Psilocybin, and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) have shown successful outcomes in clinical tests for conditions like PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. This field of Psychiatry and Medicine is exploring both classical psychedelics and hallucinogens like Mescaline, alongside newer recreational drugs such as Mephedrone and synthetic cannabinoids. Pharmacology and Drug Studies investigate their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. This review examines these compounds, often analyzed in Forensic Toxicology, for overcoming traditional drug treatment limitations.
Abstract
The utility of classical drugs used to treat psychiatric disorders (e.g., antidepressants, anxiolytics) is often limited by issues of lack of effic...
Predictors of Psychedelic Experience: A Thematic Analysis
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – October 05, 2022
Summary
Nature and music can de-escalate adverse reactions to psychoactive substances like Psilocybin and MDMA. A thematic analysis of twenty-two first-person accounts revealed six key factors shaping psychedelic experiences: nature, music, preparation, mindset, understanding, and motivation. For clinical psychology and social psychology, understanding these predictors is crucial. Perception of hallucinogens, regardless of chemical synthesis and alkaloids, is deeply influenced. This work in Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlights how a careful set of conditions can mitigate harm and influence neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, aiding psychotherapists in harm reduction.
Abstract
Research on the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances is expanding. A limitation within this field is the unpredictability of individual ...
Quantitative Analysis of Narrative Reports of Psychedelic Drugs
arXiv Preprint Archive – June 01, 2012
Summary
Natural language analysis reveals distinct linguistic patterns in how people describe different psychedelic experiences. Using advanced q-bio.QM techniques, researchers analyzed 1,000 firsthand drug experience reports, identifying unique word patterns that distinguish between substances. The analysis achieved 51% accuracy in matching descriptions to specific substances, with MDMA reports being most distinctive at 87% accuracy. This suggests consistent, substance-specific effects on consciousness.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelic drugs facilitate profound changes in consciousness and have potential to provide insights into the nature of human mental p...
Robust Detection of Ecstasy-Like and Adulterants Through ASAP-MS and DD-SIMCA.
Drug testing and analysis – February 04, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough forensic technology enables rapid, accurate identification of ecstasy and dangerous adulterants in street drugs. Using advanced mass spectrometry (ASAP-MS) combined with statistical modeling, analysts can now detect MDMA and related compounds in seconds. This method proves 98% accurate in identifying substances, making it a game-changer for drug testing labs and law enforcement.
Abstract
Ecstasy is a complex and hazardous substance, and its identification is increasingly challenging. Conventional analytical methods have limitations ...
Comparison of Laboratory Confirmed Drugs in Acute Recreational Drug Toxicity Presentations to an Urban Hospital in London, UK, 2016/17 versus 2019/20.
Journal of medical toxicology : official journal of the American College of Medical Toxicology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Drug patterns at a London hospital reveal shifting trends: Cannabis, ketamine, and opioid use increased significantly from 2016 to 2020, while MDMA and alcohol-related cases declined. Novel psychoactive substances evolved, with new synthetic benzodiazepines emerging and traditional "legal highs" becoming less common. The findings reflect broader European drug use patterns.
Abstract
Novel Psychoactive Substance (NPS) use is increasingly prevalent and is often associated with severe acute recreational drug toxicity (ARDT). 258 U...
Sexual effects of commonly used recreational psychostimulants in women and the female rat model.
Sexual medicine reviews – June 26, 2024
Summary
Common stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines can significantly impact women's sexual experiences, though effects vary widely by substance. While methamphetamine tends to enhance sexual response and lubrication, cocaine often leads to negative outcomes. Caffeine increases physical arousal through improved blood flow, and MDMA (ecstasy) typically intensifies sensual feelings rather than direct sexual effects.
Abstract
Recreational psychostimulants have been associated with increased sexual activity or changes in sexual function in women, but every drug in this cl...
Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelic Compounds for Substance Use Disorders
Preprints.org – October 17, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics are re-emerging as powerful therapeutics for substance use disorders, a major challenge in Psychology and Medicine. Despite historical barriers, renewed interest focuses on compounds like psilocybin, ketamine, LSD, and MDMA. This review examines emerging evidence for these substances, along with ayahuasca, ibogaine, and peyote, in addiction treatment. Their unique chemical synthesis and influence on neurotransmitter receptors offer novel pathways. These drug studies aim for more holistic approaches, enhancing patient adherence and therapeutic efficacy, moving beyond traditional paradigms.
Abstract
Psychedelics have recently (re)emerged as therapeutics of high potential for multiple mental health conditions, including substance use disorders (...
Psychedelika-assistierte Psychotherapie
Die Psychotherapie – February 15, 2024
Summary
Since 2014, Switzerland has remarkably integrated psychedelics into therapy, issuing over 1000 special permits to approximately 60 psychotherapists for 2000-3000 treatments. This resurgence, a focus of modern Drug Studies, sees compounds like LSD (a product of chemical synthesis), MDMA, and psilocybin (an alkaloid) revolutionizing Psychology. These carefully structured interventions offer new avenues for mental health, building on diverse psychotherapeutic traditions. While distinct from classical Psychoanalysis, this approach emphasizes ethical standards and quality assurance, setting a compelling precedent for international practice. It broadens the scope of psychological care.
Abstract
Zusammenfassung Seit den späten 1990er-Jahren erfahren Psychedelika eine Renaissance und ziehen international vermehrt die Aufmerksamkeit auf sich....
Implementation of a community-based LC-UV drug checking service: promising preliminary findings on feasibility and validity.
Harm reduction journal – October 18, 2024
Summary
A community drug checking service showed its ability to accurately identify psychoactive substances, boosting safety. Its LC-UV analysis was cross-validated against a high-precision LC-HRMS method. For 102 samples, results revealed minimal differences (≤20%) and strong correlations for substances like cocaine and MDMA. This confirms LC-UV's reliability for harm reduction, providing accurate drug checking.
Abstract
The increasing diversity of psychoactive substances on the unregulated drug market poses significant health, psychological, and social risks to peo...
Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and toxicology of new psychoactive substances (NPS): 2C-B, 4-fluoroamphetamine and benzofurans.
Drug and alcohol dependence – December 01, 2015
Summary
Surprisingly, the clinical effects of many new psychoactive substances, often sold as designer drugs or research chemicals, mirror those of common illicit drugs. A review of existing literature on substances like 2C-B and benzofurans aimed to understand their toxicology. It revealed that their clinical impact is comparable to amphetamine or MDMA, suggesting existing treatment guidelines can effectively manage related health issues. While current data is limited, combining clinical insights from poisons centers with screening and international collaboration can quickly identify hazardous legal highs, significantly protecting public health.
Abstract
Recently, the number of new psychoactive substances (NPS) appearing on the illicit drug market has shown a marked increase. Although many users per...
New psychoactive substances as adulterants of controlled drugs. A worrying phenomenon?
Drug testing and analysis – January 01, 2014
Summary
Many street drugs are not what users expect. Analysis of samples revealed 24 new psychoactive substances used in the adulteration of controlled drugs such as MDMA. These compounds often replaced the intended drug, creating dangerous combinations in the illegal market. Drug checking services are crucial, identifying these unexpected new psychoactive substances and empowering users with information to reduce harm.
Abstract
The use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) as adulterants has received little attention in the literature. In this paper, results from Energy Con...
Liquid chromatography-atmospheric pressure ionization electrospray mass spectrometry determination of "hallucinogenic designer drugs" in urine of consumers.
Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis – June 09, 2008
Summary
Did you know many designer drugs transform in the body? A new method successfully identifies various hallucinogenic designer drugs, like MDMA and 2C-B, and their metabolites in urine samples. Utilizing advanced liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, this technique offers highly sensitive and reliable detection. It accurately finds these substances even at low levels with excellent precision and recovery. This robust tool effectively tracks drug breakdown products, providing critical insights for forensic and clinical analysis.
Abstract
A procedure based on liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) is described for determination of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), 2,...
(2-Aminopropyl)benzo[β]thiophenes (APBTs) are novel monoamine transporter ligands that lack stimulant effects but display psychedelic-like activity in mice.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – March 01, 2022
Summary
Unexpectedly, a novel compound class, APBTs, influences brain chemistry without causing stimulant effects. Researchers investigated these sulfur-based analogs, finding they inhibit monoamine reuptake and release neurotransmitters, similar to MDMA. Despite this, they didn't induce hyperactivity in mice. Instead, these compounds activated serotonin receptors, producing psychedelic-like effects, evident by specific behavioral responses. This distinct profile, with strong psychedelic activity and minimal stimulation, suggests potential for therapeutic applications, such as in drug-assisted psychotherapy.
Abstract
Derivatives of (2-aminopropyl)indole (API) and (2-aminopropyl)benzofuran (APB) are new psychoactive substances which produce stimulant effects in v...
Psychedelic drug abuse potential assessment research for new drug applications and Controlled Substances Act scheduling
Neuropharmacology – August 17, 2022
Summary
New psychiatric medicines, including psilocybin, MDMA, and lysergic acid diethylamide, face hurdles as Schedule I controlled substances. Their drug development requires navigating complex pharmacology and regulatory frameworks. Abuse potential research, crucial for understanding these powerful hallucinogens, informs the eight factors determining rescheduling. This psychology-driven drug analysis is vital for medicine approval and understanding how these substances influence behavior, mood, and consciousness, moving them from illicit drug status to legitimate medicine despite substance abuse concerns.
Abstract
New medicines containing classic hallucinogenic and entactogenic psychedelic substance are under development for various psychiatric and neurologic...
4 Psychedelics: therapeutic mechanisms
Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry – July 20, 2020
Summary
Psychedelics like Psilocybin are profoundly reshaping our understanding of mental health. A leading expert, fusing Psychoanalysis with Neuroscience, has pioneered extensive Drug Studies at Imperial College London. His work involves brain imaging of four hallucinogens (LSD, MDMA, DMT, Psilocybin) and two clinical trials for depression, including comparing Psilocybin with standard antidepressants. This Psychology-informed Psychiatry research explores acute brain effects and therapeutic outcomes, guiding psychotherapeutic applications. Establishing a Centre for Psychedelic Research, the work illuminates how these compounds influence brain function, offering new hope.
Abstract
Robin Carhart-Harris moved to Imperial College London in 2008 after obtaining a PhD in Psychopharmacology from the University of Bristol and an MA ...
Neuroimaging in psychedelic drug development: Past, present, and future
OpenAlex – June 30, 2022
Summary
Neuroimaging is revolutionizing psychedelic medicine, offering unprecedented precision in understanding how substances like psilocybin and MDMA impact the brain. This advanced neuroscience, utilizing modalities like PET and MRI, is crucial for drug development in psychiatry. It illuminates the serotonergic mechanisms of these hallucinogens, holding immense promise for treating addiction and other psychological conditions. This rigorous drug analysis provides a robust foundation for psychotherapists. Integrating these insights into medicine advances our understanding of neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, propelling psychedelics and drug studies forward.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy (PT) is an emerging paradigm with great transdiagnostic potential for treating a range of psychiatric disorders, including depr...
Psychedelics as Psychiatric Medications
OpenAlex – March 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, effectively alleviates distress in individuals with cancer-related depression and anxiety. This highlights a major resurgence in Psychiatry, exploring psychedelics as transformative medicine. Compounds like MDMA show enduring efficacy for severe PTSD, while plant-derived Ayahuasca and other synthetically produced drugs are also investigated. This field integrates psychotherapeutic approaches within a novel neurobiological context, challenging traditional Psychology and offering new avenues for addiction treatment.
Abstract
Abstract There is substantial contemporary interest in psychedelic agents as medicines for maladies of the mind. This follows research in the 1950s...
Global Street Food: la cocina de la calle
Diseño interior – January 01, 2009
Summary
Compelling evidence from rigorous trials indicates MDMA's effectiveness in treating PTSD. Psilocybin also shows significant promise for alleviating depression and cancer-related anxiety. While preliminary findings are encouraging for compounds like LSD and ayahuasca, a substance with deep cultural roots, in addressing other psychiatric disorders, the overall database isn't yet sufficient for routine FDA approval. Continued investigation into these compounds is warranted.
Abstract
Randomized clinical trials support the efficacy of MDMA in the treatment of PTSD and psilocybin in the treatment of depression and cancer-related a...
The Use of Psilocybin in the Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders with Attention to Relative Safety Profile: A Systematic Review
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – February 28, 2022
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin, a potent alkaloid, shows remarkable promise in psychiatry. A review of 76 articles highlights its efficacy in significantly reducing anxiety and depression symptoms, a major burden on population health. This psychedelic medicine, alongside MDMA, causes no reported adverse effects or deaths, offering a compelling alternative in drug studies for psychological well-being. Its re-emergence signals a "Psychedelic Renaissance," broadening the scope of complementary medicine. The potential for such compounds, naturally derived, to alleviate depression is a significant development for the population.
Abstract
There has been a reemergence of research into the use of substances such as LSD, MDMA, and psilocybin for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. T...
Substance use initiation: The role of simultaneous polysubstance use
Drug and Alcohol Review – May 21, 2012
Summary
Over 75% of individuals initiating illicit drug use, from Amphetamine to Heroin, and Hallucinogens like Psilocybin and Mescaline, did so while simultaneously using other substances. Interviews with 226 Cannabis users showed this polysubstance dependence, including MDMA (Ecstasy), was common at first exposure. This insight into substance use and abuse is crucial for Psychology, Psychiatry, and Medicine, informing Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis could further explore these Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Introduction and Aims. Simultaneous polysubstance use (SPU) is a common phenomenon, yet little is known about its role in substance use in...
Can psychedelics have a role in psychiatry once again?
The British Journal of Psychiatry – June 01, 2005
Summary
Ancient wisdom meets modern science: Hallucinogens like Mescaline (a Phenethylamine), Psilocybin, and Lysergic acid derivatives such as Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) have been used for thousands of years. Contemporary Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies now investigate their profound Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, with MDMA showing promise for Treatment of Major Depression. This field explores their therapeutic potential and mechanisms.
Abstract
Psychedelic or hallucinogenic drugs such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), 3, 4, 5-trimethoxy-β-phenethylamine (mescaline), psilocybin, 3, 4-met...
The “Endless Trip” among the NPS Users: Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology in the Hallucinogen-Persisting Perception Disorder. A Systematic Review
Frontiers in Psychiatry – November 20, 2017
Summary
Hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPPD), a syndrome causing prolonged visual disturbances reminiscent of acute drug effects, was only established as a formal diagnosis in 2000, despite being described in 1954. This condition, explored through MEDLINE and other databases, is linked to a broad range of substances including Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, mescaline, and MDMA (Ecstasy). Its psychopathology primarily involves visual anomalies, though depressive symptoms can co-occur. Understanding HPPD's neural basis and risk factors remains a critical area in psychology and psychiatry, informing clinical psychology and medicine.
Abstract
Hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPPD) is a syndrome characterized by prolonged or reoccurring perceptual symptoms, reminiscent of acut...
User perceptions of the benefits and harms of hallucinogenic drug use: A web-based questionnaire study
Journal of Substance Use – July 30, 2010
Summary
Over 81% of hallucinogen users reported a profound spiritual experience, with over 90% linking classic psychedelics like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide to accessing the unconscious mind. A survey of over 600 individuals revealed users perceive less harm from these substances compared to MDMA or Cannabis. Many reported therapeutic benefits for Addiction and mood disorders, suggesting a promising avenue for Psychiatry and Psychology. This highlights the potential for Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, suggesting deeper inquiry in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, extending beyond Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research.
Abstract
This study used a web-based questionnaire to investigate user perceptions of the benefits and harms of hallucinogenic drug use. Over 600 forms were...
Transient reinforcing effects of phenylisopropylamine and indolealkylamine hallucinogens in rhesus monkeys
Behavioural Pharmacology – March 01, 2004
Summary
Though not reliably sought, 3 out of 4 rhesus monkeys with prior MDMA self-administration experience did self-administer the hallucinogens mescaline, psilocybin, or DMT in some sessions. These animals responded between 0.75 and 3.0 times per second, appearing intoxicated. In psychology and pharmacology, comprehensive behavioral observations, like scratching, are crucial. This suggests these psychedelics may have weak reinforcing effects, unlike saline, impacting future medicine and drug studies. Forensic toxicology could further explore neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Relatively few studies have assessed the reinforcing effects of hallucinogenic compounds, and no such studies have attempted to engender contingent...
Counselors’ attitudes toward psychedelics and their use in therapy
Journal of Counseling & Development – March 19, 2022
Summary
The "psychedelic renaissance" heralds a new era in mental healthcare, with MDMA and psilocybin nearing FDA approval for therapeutic use. This profound shift is reshaping Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology, yet the counseling profession has been slow to engage. A recent poll of psychotherapists revealed mixed attitudes toward hallucinogen use, though support was strong for medically supervised applications. Crucially, most counselors recognized the immense potential of these Psychedelics in therapy, underscoring a burgeoning interest within Psychology and the broader realm of Drug Studies.
Abstract
Abstract The ‘‘psychedelic renaissance’’ is generating new evidence for psychedelics’ potential to treat numerous mental and substance use disorder...
Drugs of Abuse Monitoring in Blood for Control of Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring – April 01, 2002
Summary
Driving under the influence is a critical public safety issue; forensic toxicology is crucial for detection. A comprehensive review details analytical chemistry procedures for over 20 drugs in blood, vital for identifying impaired drivers. Covered are stimulants like Amphetamine, Methamphetamine, MDMA; opiates such as Codeine, Morphine, Methadone; and hallucinogens including Lysergic acid diethylamide, Psilocybin. Benzoylecgonine, Gamma hydroxybutyrate, and various cannabinoids, including synthetic cannabinoids and designer drugs, are also addressed. Chromatography methods underpin this pharmacology, informing poison control, medicine, and advancing drug studies.
Abstract
Driving under the influence of drugs is an issue of growing concern in the industrialized countries as a risk and a cause for road accidents. In fo...
The Psychedelic Future of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment
Current Neuropharmacology – January 05, 2024
Summary
With 12 million U.S. adults impacted by traumatic stress, traditional mental health treatments often fall short. Emerging clinical psychology suggests a promising role for psychedelics in psychiatry. Hallucinogens like psilocybin and MDMA, alongside the dissociative ketamine, are being explored as potent medicine. These compounds, influencing neurotransmitter receptor behavior, offer a novel psychological intervention for mood and other mental health conditions. Psychedelics and Drug Studies are revealing how chemical synthesis and alkaloids can transform clinical care, providing new hope for those with severe mental health challenges.
Abstract
Abstract: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur following exposure to a traumatic experience. An estima...
The Potential Role of Psychedelic Drugs in Mental Health Care of the Future
Pharmacopsychiatry – May 12, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) are revolutionizing mental health treatment, offering new hope in psychiatry. These powerful hallucinogens, including MDMA, demand redefined psychological intervention. Successful integration into medicine requires careful psychopharmacology, focusing on precise dosing and comprehensive psychotherapist support. Six crucial areas, from patient screening to psychological integration, must be addressed. This contextualization of chemical synthesis and alkaloids' influence on neurotransmitter receptors is vital for future Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, ensuring safe, effective care.
Abstract
Abstract Serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), or dimethyltryptamine (DMT), as well as psychoactive drugs...
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...
Is the Requirement for First-Person Experience of Psychedelic Drugs a Justified Component of a Psychedelic Therapist’s Training?
Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics – March 02, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like Psilocybin and MDMA show significant therapeutic potential for conditions from addiction to existential distress, marking a potential step change in Psychiatry. While their value stems from unique experiential learning, questions arise regarding psychotherapist training. Should future psychotherapists undergo hallucinogen experiences themselves? Current thinking suggests requiring such firsthand engagement isn't ethically legitimate without stronger evidence of its unique contribution to understanding psychology. However, permitting voluntary participation in Psychedelics and Drug Studies might be acceptable, acknowledging the diverse academic research themes involved.
Abstract
Abstract Recent research offers good reason to think that various psychedelic drugs—including psilocybin, ayahuasca, ketamine, MDMA, and LSD—may ha...
Advances in Psychedelic Medicine
OpenAlex – January 01, 2019
Summary
Psychedelics are rapidly transforming Medicine, with the U.S. government lifting its testing ban over a decade ago. Substances like Psilocybin, MDMA, and the hallucinogen Ayahuasca are now being integrated into Psychiatry and Psychology, augmenting psychotherapies for conditions like Addiction and depressive disorders. This comprehensive assessment covers clinical efficacy, safety, and ethical considerations, alongside neuroscience findings. It also explores microdosing, cannabinoid research, and training future psychotherapists in this evolving field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Researchers, program administrators, and practicing clinicians explain the most recent developments in using psychedelic substances to treat psycho...
Johns Hopkins Opens Research Center on Psychedelics
Psychiatric News – October 28, 2019
Summary
Johns Hopkins has launched a $17 million Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, funded for five years by private donations. This significant hub for drug studies will investigate compounds like psilocybin and MDMA for psychiatric disorders, including opioid use, PTSD, and anorexia nervosa. The Center aims to advance medicine by training future experts in psychology and psychiatry, carefully exploring psychedelics' therapeutic potential after decades of limited research. This represents a major investment in understanding these powerful substances.
Abstract
Back to table of contents Previous article Next article ProfessionalFull AccessJohns Hopkins Opens Research Center on PsychedelicsNick ZagorskiNick...
Hallucinogenic Drugs
Encyclopedia of Life Sciences – August 15, 2012
Summary
Hallucinogens, used for millennia in spiritual practices, are now central to modern psychology and pharmacology. Potent psychedelics like Lysergic acid diethylamide, Psilocybin, and Mescaline exert their powerful influence on behavior by primarily modulating serotonin neurotransmitter receptors, leading to profound perceptual and cognitive shifts. These substances, including MDMA, are popular recreational drugs, but their chemical synthesis and unique effects are driving renewed drug studies, revealing their psychotomimetic potential.
Abstract
Abstract Hallucinogens constitute one of the oldest classes of drugs used by humanity, often in the context of spiritual practices. Classic halluci...
Psychedelics for treating psychiatric disorders: Are they safe?
Current Psychiatry – December 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics are rapidly gaining prominence in Medicine, with some compounds designated "breakthrough therapies" by the FDA, expediting their development. Growing evidence from Drug Studies highlights their potential for treating psychiatric disorders like depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders, often alongside psychotherapy. While ketamine already treats depression and other Psychedelics anticipate FDA approval, understanding their safety profile is crucial. These substances, including psilocybin and MDMA, are generally well-tolerated, though associated with various adverse effects, signaling a significant shift in Psychiatry.
Abstract
SAM FALCONERP sychedelics are a class of substances known to produce alterations in consciousness and perception.In the last 2 decades, psychedelic...
Psychedelic Psychiatry
Advances in Clinical Medical Research and Healthcare Delivery – May 31, 2022
Summary
A remarkable Renaissance in clinical psychiatry reveals potent new treatments. Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, effectively addresses depressive disorders, sometimes outperforming current 'gold standards' in mental health. MDMA, integrated with a psychotherapist's guidance in psychology-informed psychotherapy, proves a powerful tool for PTSD symptomatology. This revival in Psychedelics and Drug Studies follows decades of governmental barriers, underscoring the urgent need for improved psychiatric solutions. The potential for transforming mental well-being is significant.
Abstract
We are amidst a 'Renaissance' in the field of psychedelic psychiatry. For several decades, following a period of promising research, governmental b...
Regulatory Challenges of Integrating Psychedelics into Mental Health Sector
Psychoactives – April 22, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics are emerging as a promising method for treating mental health conditions. Substances like LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA, when administered in controlled settings with psychological support, induce profound insights. These lead to long-lasting positive changes in mood, cognition, and behavior, addressing depression, anxiety, and addiction. This revolutionizes mental health treatment. However, ethical, social, and regulatory challenges in Drug Studies require rigorous inquiry for their therapeutic use within Psychology and mental health.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances have recently emerged as a promising method for treating mental health conditions, despite a history of stigmatization and r...
Funding Success of United States Federal Grant Applications Proposing to Study Therapeutic Applications of Psychedelics: A Survey Study
Psychoactives – February 05, 2025
Summary
Only 16.7% of 24 federal grant applications for therapeutic psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA received funding, significantly below the NIH's 23.4% average. A survey of 10 leading Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies researchers, identified using Library Science methods, revealed challenges in securing support. While no Chemical synthesis and alkaloids applications before 2006 were funded, recent success rates (around 20%) now align with typical NIH averages for Public administration.
Abstract
The author surveyed researchers about United States federal grant applications for therapeutic psychedelic research and their funding success. An a...
Psychedelics as pharmacotherapeutics for substance use disorders: A scoping review on clinical trials and perspectives on underlying neurobiology
British Journal of Pharmacology – September 02, 2025
Summary
High-dose psilocybin, a classic hallucinogen, uniquely boosts dopamine in the brain's nucleus accumbens, a region critical for addiction. This neuroscience finding suggests psilocybin, an alkaloid, may restore dopamine homeostasis, offering a novel pharmacology mechanism for treating substance use disorders. Psychiatry and medicine are actively exploring this: 34 clinical trials are underway, primarily for alcohol addiction, investigating psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA. This exciting development in Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlights how chemical synthesis and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior can advance psychology's approach to addiction.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelics have garnered great attention in recent years as treatments for major depressive disorder (MDD) and treatment‐resistant depre...
Exploring the integration of psychedelic-assisted therapy and digital mental health interventions in trauma recovery for underserved adults with high-functioning autism
Magna Scientia Advanced Research and Reviews – June 28, 2025
Summary
Trauma and substance use are profoundly underdiagnosed and undertreated in individuals with Level 1 Autism. While promising psychedelic-assisted therapies (e.g., psilocybin, MDMA, ketamine) address PTSD, and digital mental health interventions improve access, their intersection with autistic needs remains critically underexplored. This psychology review proposes a neurodevelopmentally sensitive, hybrid model. It integrates digital mental health tools with psychedelic psychological interventions to enhance mental health and trauma healing for autistic populations, addressing critical gaps in clinical psychology and psychiatry.
Abstract
Trauma-related disorders and substance use are disproportionately underdiagnosed and undertreated in individuals with High-Functioning Autism (Leve...
Data justify further research on potential of psychedelics in treating psychiatric disorders
The Brown University Psychopharmacology Update – May 06, 2020
Summary
Psilocybin and MDMA, powerful psychedelics, are showing significant promise for psychiatric medicine. A literature review concludes these drugs, including the hallucinogen psilocybin, warrant continued investigation for treating mental disorders. Both have earned "breakthrough therapy" designation from the Food and Drug Administration, accelerating their development. Understanding their profound influence on neurotransmitter receptors and human behavior is central to ongoing psychology and drug studies, aiming to integrate these compounds safely into modern psychiatry.
Abstract
Although research findings to date do not support the use of psychedelic compounds in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, the existing body of ...
A-118 Psychedelic Interventions for Neuropsychological Conditions
Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology – August 17, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like MDMA and psilocybin show promise for neuropsychological conditions, beyond treating anxiety and other psychological conditions. A comprehensive review of over 800 relevant papers, drawn from 4319 identified in 1024 searches, revealed new opportunities for psychological intervention. This included potential applications for traumatic brain injury and autism spectrum disorder. While these psychedelic therapies are advancing through clinical trials in psychiatry and medicine, some contraindications exist for specific co-occurring psychological disorders, highlighting the evolving landscape of drug studies and their impact on clinical psychology.
Abstract
Abstract Objective: Psychedelic-assisted therapies are emerging as safe and effective treatments for some psychological conditions including depres...
The “Endless Trip”: Psychopathology and psychopharmacology in the Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD)
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2016
Summary
Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) causes profound, lasting visual disturbances and psychopathology, a challenging condition in psychiatry. Affecting individuals exposed to psychedelics like Lysergic acid diethylamide, psilocybin, MDMA (Ecstasy), or mescaline, its underlying mechanisms, including neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, remain largely unknown. Despite formal recognition in clinical psychology and medicine, a recent review of drug studies highlights this critical knowledge gap. Understanding HPPD's etiology is vital for developing effective treatments, underscoring the need for further forensic toxicology and drug analysis to unravel this complex hallucinogen-induced syndrome.
Abstract
Introduction Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) is a syndrome characterized by prolonged or reoccurring perceptual symptoms, remini...
Pharmacotherapy of Psychological Disorders Using Psychedelic Drugs: A Treatise for Psychiatrists
Current Psychiatry Research and Reviews – January 21, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics, including psilocybin and MDMA, are re-emerging in Psychiatry as potent Medicine for mental illness. Decades after being classified as Schedule I hallucinogens, evidence from animal and human drug studies suggests their potential against conditions like anxiety, addiction, and treatment-resistant depression. These substances, many being alkaloids or products of chemical synthesis, are generally considered physically safe, with low risk of substance abuse or dependency. Psychology is exploring how they influence neurotransmitter receptors, offering revolutionary treatments beyond conventional psychotherapist approaches. Careful management is crucial to ensure their medical role.
Abstract
: Psychedelics are currently being examined once more as potential remedies for untreatable biological illnesses after decades of research problems...
IS PSYCHEDELIC TREATMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS READY FOR PRIME TIME?
Journal of Pakistan Psychiatric Society – June 30, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like Psilocybin and MDMA are transforming Psychiatry, offering hope for millions with mental health challenges. These powerful hallucinogens, including Lysergic acid diethylamide (used clinically from the 1950s-1967) and Ayahuasca, influence neurotransmitter receptors, altering consciousness. Clinical psychology and drug studies reveal their potential to disrupt pathological brain activity, promoting neuroplasticity. Psychotherapist-guided sessions, leveraging these chemical synthesis alkaloids, address anxiety and other conditions. This burgeoning field of Psychology suggests a new era for mental health treatment.
Abstract
Psychedelics, substances known to alter perception, mood, and consciousness, have been used across various cultures for centuries, often in religio...
Preparing for psychedelic therapies in Australia
OpenAlex – October 18, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic therapies are making a compelling comeback in Psychology and Drug Studies, poised to transform mental health care. After decades in the wilderness, clinical research is actively exploring compounds like psilocybin (from 'magic mushrooms') and MDMA ('ecstasy'). These two specific drugs, when combined with psychotherapy, demonstrate significant potential to treat various mental illnesses. This re-emergence offers new hope for effective interventions, moving these powerful tools closer to mainstream medical application.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapies have the potential to treat mental illness but there’s still a long way to go. After decades in the wilderness, psychedelic t...
Culture and psychedelic psychotherapy: Ethnic and racial themes from three Black women therapists
Journal of Evolutionary Psychology – September 21, 2020
Summary
A single MDMA session proved profoundly meaningful for three African American female psychotherapists, addressing personal racialization and oppression. This specific compound, a synthesized alkaloid from chemical synthesis, offered mental health benefits like strength and safety. This finding in Clinical Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlights how diverse ethnic group perspectives are vital. Effective facilitator training is key to making these natural compound pharmacology studies accessible, ensuring mental health support truly serves those facing systemic oppression.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic medicine is an emerging field of research and practice that examines the psychotherapeutic effects of substances classified as...
Evidence for a hallucinogen dependence syndrome developing soon after onset of hallucinogen use during adolescence
International Journal of Methods in Psychiatric Research – August 21, 2006
Summary
A compelling finding in Psychiatry: only 2% of 1186 young, recent-onset hallucinogen users (ages 12-21) exhibited features resembling a dependence syndrome. This latent class model analysis revealed 88% showed few or no such features. However, specific psychedelics matter; MDMA users had 2.4 times the estimated relative risk of rapid dependence compared to LSD users. This Psychology insight, relevant for Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, Psychedelics and Drug Studies, and Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, highlights varying risks, without age or sex being factors.
Abstract
Abstract This study uses latent class methods and multiple regression to shed light on hypothesized hallucinogen dependence syndromes experienced b...
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 ...