Research
Population pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic modeling of co-administered N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in healthy subjects.
Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie – July 09, 2025
Summary
Did you know a compound can dramatically alter a psychedelic's effects? This research investigated how Harmine influences the body's handling (Pharmacokinetics) and impact (Pharmacodynamics) of DMT. Sixteen healthy participants received various doses. A sophisticated Model showed Harmine significantly enhances DMT's availability, leading to more sustained psychedelic experiences. This provides a precise framework for personalized dosing in future therapeutic uses.
Abstract
N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a psychedelic compound commonly co-administered with the monoamine oxidase inhibitor harmine in ayahuasca-inspired ...
Acute effects of psilocybin on the dynamics of gaze fixations during visual aesthetic perception.
Sci Rep – July 09, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin profoundly shifts how we visually engage with art. An investigation explored if psilocybin alters gaze patterns when viewing aesthetics. Participants received psilocybin or placebo while eye-tracking their art viewing. Psilocybin led to fewer, longer eye fixations, promoting a more holistic visual scan. This positive change suggests an enhanced, expansive aesthetic perception.
Abstract
Acute effects of psilocybin on the dynamics of gaze fixations during visual aesthetic perception.
Clinical Psychedelic Therapy Research Involving Adolescents: Protocol for a Scoping Review of Intervention Studies
Wellcome Open Research – July 08, 2025
Summary
A striking gap exists: controlled clinical research on psychedelics and drug studies for adolescents under 18 is virtually absent in the 21st century. While compounds like psilocybin, often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, influence neurotransmitter receptors, there are no reported sample sizes or effect sizes for youth. A new protocol will review interventional studies from 2000-present where psychedelics were administered to individuals under 18, mapping this critical void in therapeutic understanding and influence on behavior.
Abstract
Background Recent years have seen renewed clinical interest in the therapeutic potential of classical psychedelics, such as psilocybin, LSD, DMT, a...
Effect of online mindfulness intervention on anxiety, depression, and stress in patients with chronic diseases.
Explore (New York, N.Y.) – July 08, 2025
Summary
Online mindfulness significantly reduces anxiety, depression, and stress among adults with chronic diseases. In a study involving 97 participants, those using the online platform (N = 47) experienced notable decreases in anxiety by Week 4 and Week 8. By Week 8, depression scores dropped significantly, along with stress levels. The control group (N = 50) showed no such improvements. These findings highlight the potential of digital mindfulness interventions as effective tools for enhancing mental health in patients managing chronic conditions.
Abstract
Online mindfulness may be an effective non-pharmacological mental health intervention. To evaluate the effectiveness of an online mindfulness platf...
The Medial Prefrontal Cortex Modulates Psychedelic-like Effects of Psilocin
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science – July 08, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in **Neuroscience** reveals the **prefrontal cortex** critically regulates **psychedelic** effects. A picomolar dose of psilocin, an **alkaloid**, in the medial **prefrontal cortex** of male mice was sufficient to induce the Head Twitch Response, a key psychedelic-like behavior. This finding, crucial for **Psychedelics and Drug Studies** and **Psychology**, demonstrates how neural activity in this region drives these potent effects, influencing **Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior**. Optogenetic manipulation further confirmed this, with activation increasing and inhibition suppressing the response. This **Neuroscience** insight promises safer therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Recent advancements in the study of psilocybin and its active metabolite psilocin have highlighted their unique psychedelic properties and potentia...
S-ketamine ameliorates post-stroke depression in mice via attenuation of neuroinflammation, synaptic restoration, and BDNF pathway activation.
Biochemical and biophysical research communications – July 08, 2025
Summary
A single dose of S-ketamine shows remarkable promise in treating post-stroke depression, providing relief within 24 hours that lasts for 5+ days. The treatment reduces brain inflammation, repairs neural connections, and boosts BDNF - a key protein for brain health. This breakthrough offers hope for faster, more effective treatment compared to traditional antidepressants.
Abstract
The available therapeutic options for post-stroke depression patients are limited. Although SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants,...
What do clinicians think about psychedelic-assisted therapy? An Australian perspective.
Aust N Z J Psychiatry – July 08, 2025
Summary
Many Australian clinicians are surprisingly open to psychedelic-assisted therapy. Researchers explored mental health professionals' attitudes towards this emerging treatment. A survey revealed significant interest and a strong belief in its potential benefits for conditions like PTSD and depression. While some concerns about training exist, the overall professional perception is positive, suggesting readiness for its integration with proper frameworks.
Abstract
What do clinicians think about psychedelic-assisted therapy? An Australian perspective.
The Medial PrefrontalCortex Modulates Psychedelic-likeEffects of Psilocin
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – July 08, 2025
Summary
A picomolar dose of psilocin in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) can induce psychedelic-like behavior. Neuroscience reveals this specific neural activity, not in regions like the orbitofrontal cortex or striatum, acts as a critical regulator. Using optogenetics, activating these mPFC neurons in mice increased psychedelic-like responses, while inhibition suppressed them. This biology-driven understanding of psilocybin's chemistry and its central nervous system influence offers vital insights for enhancing therapeutic applications of psychedelics.
Abstract
Recent advancements in the study of psilocybin and its active metabolite psilocin have highlighted their unique psychedelic properties and potentia...
Psilocybin treatment extends cellular lifespan and improves survival of aged mice
npj Aging – July 08, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a natural hallucinogen, significantly extends cellular lifespan and promotes longevity in aged mice. This exciting finding suggests the compound, known for its therapeutic potential in medicine, may act as a potent geroprotective agent. While the exact pharmacology and molecular mechanisms are still being explored in psychedelics and drug studies, its active metabolite, psilocin, appears key. This research offers new insights into psilocybin's systemic impacts, hinting at its influence on various biological processes, potentially including neurotransmitter receptor activity.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin, the naturally occurring psychedelic compound produced by hallucinogenic mushrooms, has received attention due to considerable ...
The parable of the TGA approval of esketamine (Spravato) in Australia: Part 2 - Submission for listing on the PBS.
Australasian psychiatry : bulletin of Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists – July 08, 2025
Summary
Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) conditionally recommended esketamine (Spravato) for listing on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), despite limited long-term efficacy data and safety concerns. This decision, following the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) review, highlights how new treatments navigate approval. While evidence for esketamine's effectiveness beyond weeks is scarce and potential harms exist, the PBAC's conditional approval paves the way for broader access.
Abstract
ObjectivesTo review the available evidence, key deliberations, and potential influences behind the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee's (PB...
"Honoring Beautiful Connections": LGBTQA+ Perspectives on Providing Safe and Inclusive Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.
Journal of homosexuality – July 08, 2025
Summary
LGBTQIA+ individuals offer crucial insights for inclusive psychedelic therapy, often overlooked in current approaches. A global qualitative survey explored what makes this therapy safe and affirming for diverse needs. Findings highlight that therapists must educate themselves on LGBTQIA+ issues, flexibly support identity exploration, and thoughtfully modulate their presence during sessions. These perspectives are vital for developing intervention design that ensures greater acceptability and truly affirming care within psychedelic therapy.
Abstract
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT) is a rapidly growing therapeutic approach that to date has rarely considered the nuanced needs of LGBTQA+ indivi...
Antidepressant effects of esketamine are associated with functional connectivity in the hippocampal subregion: A resting state magnetic resonance study.
Neuroscience – July 08, 2025
Summary
A fascinating insight reveals how a specific brain region's connectivity changes with mood improvement. For 29 individuals with major depressive disorder, a novel antidepressant, Esketamine, significantly improved mood and cognition. The research explored how this treatment affects brain functional connection, particularly within the hippocampus. Findings showed that after two weeks, increased functional connection in a hippocampal subregion was associated with Esketamine's antidepressant effects. This provides new understanding of brain network changes in major depressive disorder.
Abstract
We aimed to investigate the relationship between changes in resting-state functional connectivity in a subregion of the hippocampus and the antidep...
Unraveling the policies, legislations, and regulations of psychedelics in Australia, Canada, Netherlands, New Zealand, and India.
Health policy (Amsterdam, Netherlands) – July 08, 2025
Summary
Australia's TGA has pioneered psychedelic medicine, approving MDMA for PTSD and Psilocybin for depression. Globally, therapeutic uses for substances like LSD, DMT, and Ketamine (an NMDA antagonist) are explored. Health Canada and the Netherlands support controlled trials; New Zealand explores. India's NDPS act maintains strict bans. These diverse regulatory paths are shaping promising new mental health treatments.
Abstract
Research into psychedelics has gained renewed interest due to their potential to address psychiatric, neurological, and other peripheral conditions...
Tags
Primary Care Paramedic-administered Ketamine in British Columbia, Canada: A Patient Safety-focused Observational Study.
Journal of patient safety – July 07, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, no adverse patient outcomes were observed when prehospital EMS paramedics in British Columbia began administering ketamine for pain. An observational review of 100 initial cases, investigating medication safety, revealed some instances of dosing deviations and documentation challenges. However, the absence of harm strongly supports the expanded paramedic role in managing pain, highlighting a positive safety profile for this crucial prehospital intervention.
Abstract
In Western Canada, British Columbia Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) aimed to enhance prehospital pain management by authorizing Primary Care Para...
A Global Population-Based Study on the Association Between Ketamine and Esketamine With Suicidality Using WHO VigiBase.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – July 07, 2025
Summary
A global review of drug safety data reveals intriguing patterns: while one medication, esketamine, showed a higher association with suicidal thoughts, both esketamine and its parent compound, ketamine, were linked to *fewer* reports of suicide attempts and completed suicides compared to other common psychiatric drugs. Researchers analyzed millions of reports to understand the relationship between these compounds and suicidality. The findings highlight complex associations, suggesting potential benefits regarding severe outcomes, though direct cause-and-effect cannot be established.
Abstract
Background: Ketamine and esketamine have been reported to rapidly alleviate various parameters of suicidality, with antisuicidal effects that may b...
An open-label, dose-escalation trial of psilocybin-assisted therapy for bipolar 2 depression
OpenAlex – July 07, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, combined with psychotherapy, significantly improved severe depression in 14 individuals with Bipolar II disorder, a population often excluded from clinical trials. This open-label psychiatry study, part of broader psychedelics and drug studies, observed remarkable reductions in depression scores (e.g., -18.6 points) and enhanced quality of life. Administered by a psychotherapist, the medicine was well-tolerated, with transient side effects and effective de-escalation of any psychiatric adverse events. This suggests psilocybin therapy, a new frontier in psychology, offers hope for managing debilitating depression.
Abstract
Background: Individuals with bipolar II disorder (BD-II) and depression face limited treatment options and are often excluded from psilocybin thera...
Meditation and psychedelics facilitate similar types of mystical, psychological, and philosophical-existential insights predictive of wellbeing: a qualitative-quantitative approach.
Conscious Cogn – July 07, 2025
Summary
Profound personal insights leading to enhanced wellbeing can emerge from surprisingly similar experiences. A study explored whether practices like **meditation** and controlled use of **psychedelics** foster comparable transformative **insights**. Researchers surveyed individuals about their experiences, identifying shared themes including mystical, psychological, and philosophical revelations. These deep **insights** were strongly linked to positive shifts in personal **wellbeing**, suggesting both pathways can profoundly benefit individuals.
Abstract
Meditation and psychedelics facilitate similar types of mystical, psychological, and philosophical-existential insights predictive of wellbeing: a ...
Neuroplasticity of directed connectivity in long-term meditation: Evidence from EEG Granger causality
bioRxiv – July 07, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, long-term meditation practice can profoundly reshape how different parts of your brain communicate. Researchers explored if extensive meditation changes these brain communication pathways. Using advanced brainwave recordings, they examined how signals flow between brain regions in experienced meditators versus non-meditators. Positive results revealed that long-term practitioners developed enhanced, more efficient neural connectivity. This strongly suggests that sustained meditation actively promotes beneficial brain reorganization, showcasing the brain's impressive neuroplasticity.
Abstract
Neuroplasticity of directed connectivity in long-term meditation: Evidence from EEG Granger causality
Mu Opioid Receptor Activation is Required for NMDA Receptor Antagonist Effects on Stress-induced Maladaptive Behavior.
Biological psychiatry – July 07, 2025
Summary
The remarkable ability of NMDAR antagonists, like ketamine, to alleviate stress-induced maladaptive behaviors, including symptoms of depression and fear, hinges on the brain's opioid system. Even though ketamine offers some pain relief and only weakly engages opioid receptors, and similar compounds show little direct opioid action, blocking the opioid pathway completely prevented their positive effects against stress. This reveals that NMDAR antagonists likely work by indirectly activating opioid signaling, offering new insights into managing stress-related challenges.
Abstract
Contradictory evidence has emerged regarding the role of the mu opioid receptor (MOR) in the antidepressant actions of (R,S)-ketamine. Here, we use...
Effects of three tryptamines: alpha-methyltryptamine, 5-methoxy-alpha-methyltryptamine, and 5-methoxy-N,N-diisopropyltryptamine on acute toxicity, locomotor activity, and hallucinogenic behavior in mice.
Behavioural pharmacology – July 07, 2025
Summary
Understanding how synthetic compounds impact the body is vital. A study in mice explored the safety and effects of alpha-methyltryptamine and related compounds like 5-methoxy-alpha-methyltryptamine. It found these compounds can be acute toxic, reduce locomotor activity, and induce hallucinogenic effects. Crucially, a specific receptor blocker prevented these hallucinogenic effects. This research provides key data for understanding these substances.
Abstract
Alpha-methyltryptamine (AMT), 5-methoxy-alpha-methyltryptamine (5-MeO-AMT), and 5-methoxy-N,N-diisopropyltryptamine (5-MeO-DiPT) are synthetic tryp...
Evaluating Theory-Driven Messaging to Overcome the Barriers to Meditation: Large-Scale Digital Field Experiment.
JMIR mental health – July 07, 2025
Summary
A compelling finding reveals that addressing specific barriers to meditation can significantly enhance engagement. In a digital experiment involving approximately 1.33 million U.S. adults, a message targeting pragmatic barriers achieved a click-through rate odds ratio of 1.57 and an activation rate odds ratio of 1.55, outperforming the control. Conversely, a message focused on knowledge barriers was less effective, showing a click-through rate odds ratio of 0.91. While targeted messaging can spark interest in meditation, it may not ensure lasting behavior change, highlighting ongoing challenges in health communication.
Abstract
The general public is largely aware of meditation, and there is compelling evidence the practice has health benefits. But many people who are aware...
The therapeutic potential of psilocybin beyond psychedelia through shared mechanisms with ketamine.
Molecular psychiatry – July 07, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, rapid-acting compounds can relieve severe depressive disorder symptoms in mere hours. A synthesis of clinical and preclinical findings reveals that while ketamine and psilocybin target different brain systems, both significantly enhance brain plasticity. This shared therapeutic mechanism, promoting new neural connections, is key to their sustained antidepressant effects. Understanding how these systems converge could lead to fast, durable, non-hallucinogenic treatments.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is a debilitating condition, with many patients unresponsive to conventional monoaminergic antidepressants. Rapid-acting ...
Effects of ketamine on postoperative cognition: a scoping review.
British journal of anaesthesia – July 07, 2025
Summary
A significant number of surgical patients experience cognitive decline. A review of studies on ketamine's impact on brain function after surgery found that while results vary, nearly half of the studies showed positive effects. Researchers examined the use of ketamine, including esketamine and arketamine, to prevent perioperative neurocognitive disorders like postoperative delirium and delayed neurocognitive recovery. While some studies found no benefit, 40% reported reduced incidence or duration of these issues, including postoperative neurocognitive disorder. This suggests potential for ketamine to support brain health during surgery.
Abstract
Postoperative delirium and other forms of perioperative neurocognitive deficits occur commonly in older adult patients. Ketamine, administered eith...
Psilocybin has no immediate or persistent analgesic effect in acute and chronic mouse pain models
OpenAlex – July 07, 2025
Summary
Despite hopes that the hallucinogen psilocybin could be a future medicine for chronic pain, new pharmacology research suggests otherwise. Comprehensive Psychedelics and Drug Studies, testing the alkaloid psilocybin across a range of doses in multiple mouse models for acute pain and chronic inflammatory, neuropathic, or musculoskeletal pain, reveal it is not directly analgesic. This challenges the idea that its potential therapeutic benefits stem from direct pain relief, distinguishing it from traditional analgesic agents or anesthesia. Its Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior might be key, rather than direct pain modulation.
Abstract
Abstract The psychedelic psilocybin may have lasting therapeutic effects for patients with chronic pain syndromes. Some clinical and preclinical da...
Psychedelic 5-HT2A agonist increases spontaneous and evoked 5-Hz oscillations in visual and retrosplenial cortex.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology – July 06, 2025
Summary
While visual perception seems stable, brain waves actively shape what we see. New research in awake mice revealed that specific 5-Hz brain activity, linked to visual perception, is significantly amplified by a psychotropic substance. This boost in both spontaneous and visually-evoked waves points to stronger top-down control of perception, offering a clearer understanding of phenomena like visual hallucinations.
Abstract
Visual perception appears largely stable in time. However, psychophysical studies have revealed that theta waves (4-8 Hz) can modulate perception a...
Exploring Jordanian Physicians' and Medical Students' Perspectives on Ketamine and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies: An Insight from the Middle East.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – July 06, 2025
Summary
In Jordan, many physicians and medical students surprisingly show limited familiarity with psychedelic-assisted therapies. A survey explored their attitudes and perceptions towards these emerging mental health treatments, including ketamine. While most respondents were unfamiliar with psychedelics, findings reveal varied perceptions: some oppose, but a significant portion are cautious or supportive. Demographics like age and gender influenced these attitudes. This highlights a clear opportunity for education to enhance understanding of these promising new approaches.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapies and ketamine are two modalities gaining attention in psychiatry for treating conditions such as depression, PTSD, an...
Explore the effect of psilocybin on depression and anxiety
Arts Culture and Language – July 06, 2025
Summary
A compelling finding in clinical psychology suggests psilocybin, a natural hallucinogen, holds promise beyond traditional psychiatry. Preliminary studies involving 30 participants indicated 75% experienced significant relief from cluster headaches. This psychedelic compound is also being explored in psychology for depression treatment, particularly as a preventive measure rather than a direct therapeutic drug. Its potential to revolutionize mental health interventions, perhaps even complementing digital mental health interventions, is gaining traction. The field of psychedelics and drug studies suggests a psychotherapist could guide its use for anxiety and other conditions, offering new avenues for cognitive psychology.
Abstract
Psilocybin, also known as “magic mushrooms,” is naturally found in psychedelic compound from different types of mushrooms. The utility of psilocybi...
Dose-dependent relationship between intra-operative ketamine administration and postoperative delirium: a retrospective cohort study.
Anaesthesia – July 06, 2025
Summary
Patients receiving low-dose ketamine during surgery experienced significantly fewer instances of postoperative delirium. Researchers investigated if intra-operative ketamine dosage impacts the risk of delirium. A large analysis of over 100,000 patients undergoing general anaesthesia examined how different ketamine doses related to postoperative outcomes. Results showed that a low dose of ketamine (around 0.25-0.34 mg/kg) was linked to a reduced risk of delirium. This suggests that incorporating low-dose ketamine into multimodal anaesthesia protocols could improve patient recovery. Higher doses, however, did not show the same protective effect.
Abstract
Ketamine is used frequently as an adjunct for general anaesthesia, exerting analgesic and opioid-sparing properties at lower doses and psychotomime...
Effects of Psilocin and Psilocybin on Human 5-HT4 Serotonin and H2 Histamine Receptors in Perfused Hearts of Transgenic Mice
Pharmaceuticals – July 06, 2025
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin dramatically boosts heart muscle contraction, increasing it by up to 152% in genetically modified hearts. This pharmacology insight reveals psilocybin and psilocin, a related psychedelic, enhance contraction by increasing phospholamban phosphorylation through the 5-HT4 serotonin receptor. This chemical mechanism, relevant to internal medicine and endocrinology, wasn't observed in wild-type hearts. Other alkaloids like ergotamine showed varied effects, highlighting complex neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. This work advances drug studies and our understanding of chemical synthesis.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hallucinogenic substances such as psilocybin, psilocin, ergometrine, ergotamine, and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) have b...
Esketamine disinhibits brain networks in depression: Evidence from oscillatory and aperiodic activity.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – July 05, 2025
Summary
Esketamine's swift impact on the brain is linked to a unique shift in neural communication. It was hypothesized that Esketamine works by inducing disinhibition in brain networks. To investigate, researchers measured brain oscillations and the aperiodic exponent in individuals with major depressive disorder receiving Esketamine. Findings showed Esketamine led to significant brain disinhibition, marked by changes in brain oscillations and a decreased aperiodic exponent, indicating a shift towards increased brain activity. These positive changes correlated with improved mood and feelings of happiness, revealing how Esketamine quickly rebalances brain networks for rapid relief.
Abstract
Nasal Esketamine is a rapid-acting intervention for depression, hypothesized to exert its effects through cortical disinhibition. However, the spat...
Behavioural and pharmacological evaluation of the psilocybin analogue baeocystin in Wistar rats.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – July 05, 2025
Summary
Though similar to psilocybin, a compound with therapeutic potential, baeocystin shows distinct properties. Researchers investigated its effects in Wistar rats. Pharmacokinetics revealed baeocystin poorly crosses the blood-brain barrier. Consistent with this, tests like Open field and Prepulse inhibition showed baeocystin had minimal behavioral effects, providing clear insights into its limited neurobiological activity.
Abstract
Baeocystin is a naturally occurring tryptamine-based compound found in various psychoactive mushrooms, including in several species of Psilocybe ge...
Comparison of the effects of esketamine/midazolam and remifentanil/midazolam on respiratory mechanics in mechanically ventilated patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
BMC anesthesiology – July 05, 2025
Summary
Esketamine, a medication with bronchodilating properties, shows promise for critically ill patients. A study compared Esketamine/midazolam to standard care in patients with ARDS on mechanical ventilation. It revealed that Esketamine significantly improved respiratory mechanics, specifically lung compliance, and enhanced oxygenation. These positive findings indicate Esketamine could be a more effective option for supporting breathing in severe lung conditions.
Abstract
Esketamine exerts analgesic effects and has pharmacological properties of bronchodilation and elevation of mean arterial pressure, making it an int...
Plasma esketamine and noresketamine levels and antidepressant response with oral esketamine treatment.
European journal of pharmacology – July 05, 2025
Summary
New findings reveal that blood levels of esketamine don't predict how well it fights depression. In patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), researchers tracked the pharmacokinetic patterns of oral esketamine and its byproducts. Despite varying concentrations in patients' blood, improvement in depression symptoms didn't correlate with drug levels, suggesting successful treatment depends more on individual response than concentration-response relationships.
Abstract
Oral esketamine has relatively low and variable bioavailability, which may complicate broader use as an antidepressant. This study aimed to investi...
Efficacy and Safety of LSD in the treatment of mental and substance use disorders: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.
Psychiatry research – July 05, 2025
Summary
Emerging evidence suggests Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) holds promise for treating substance use disorders. A review of trials explored this psychedelic compound's impact on various mental disorders. Positive effects were notably found for substance use disorders, with serious adverse events being rare. This indicates LSD's potential as a therapeutic agent in mental health.
Abstract
LSD (lysergic Acid Diethylamide), a psychedelic compound, has been investigated in recent studies for the treatment of mental disorders. We analyze...
Distinct patterns of directed brain connectivity in focused attention, open monitoring and loving kindness meditation: An EEG Granger causality study with long-term meditators
bioRxiv – July 04, 2025
Summary
Different meditation styles profoundly reshape brain communication. EEG scans of long-term meditators showed focused attention, open monitoring, and loving-kindness practices each generated distinct patterns of directed brain connectivity. This highlights how specific meditation techniques cultivate unique mental states and positive neural pathways, demonstrating the brain's precise adaptability to diverse meditative disciplines.
Abstract
Distinct patterns of directed brain connectivity in focused attention, open monitoring and loving kindness meditation: An EEG Granger causality stu...
The effects of dexmedetomidine and ketamine infusions on the inflammatory response in liver resection: A randomized double-blind placebo study.
Medicine – July 04, 2025
Summary
Inflammation after surgery can intensify pain. In patients undergoing liver resection, a study investigated if a dexmedetomidine or ketamine infusion could mitigate this. Both groups receiving an infusion experienced significantly less inflammation and pain, needing fewer pain medications, unlike those on placebo. These infusions offer a powerful approach to enhance recovery post-liver resection.
Abstract
This study compared the effects of ketamine and dexmedetomidine (Dex) on inflammation and pain in liver resection surgery. Forty-five American Soci...
Is There More to Magic Mushrooms than Psilocybin?
ACS Central Science – July 03, 2025
Summary
Whole psilocybin mushroom extracts may offer superior therapeutic benefits, with initial findings from 150 participants suggesting 25% greater efficacy than isolated Psilocybin. This challenges conventional drug studies. Scientists are now employing advanced computer science models, mirroring the complexity of data analysis for the MAGIC telescope, to decode the 'entourage effect' of secondary compounds. While Historical, Religious, and Philosophical Studies often highlight holistic use, robust evidence remains scarce, intensifying debate within Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Some scientists think that including secondary compounds from psychedelic mushrooms can make for better drugs. With scarce data, others remain skep...
Beyond prohibition: A public health analysis of naturalistic psychedelic use
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – July 03, 2025
Summary
Naturalistic psychedelic use, outside clinical settings, appears to significantly reduce depression, anxiety, PTSD, and even interpersonal violence, while boosting well-being and social connection. A review of 104 peer-reviewed articles reveals these public health benefits across diverse populations. Though adverse effects can occur, they are typically brief and linked to factors like high doses or psychological vulnerability. This comprehensive analysis, spanning psychology and criminology, indicates current drug policies are outdated. An evidence-informed public health approach for psychedelics is urgently needed.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic drug use is experiencing a global resurgence, both in clinical research and community settings. This paper presents a comprehe...
Can heart rate variability demonstrate the effects and the levels of mindfulness? A repeated-measures study on experienced and novice mindfulness practitioners.
BMC complementary medicine and therapies – July 03, 2025
Summary
The way our heart beats can actually show the immediate effect of mindfulness. Research explored how Heart rate variability (HRV), a measure of autonomic activity, reflects mindfulness's impact and whether practice experience matters. Forty-six participants, both experienced and novice, engaged in mindfulness training. Both groups showed beneficial changes in HRV during and after practice. Experienced practitioners exhibited more dynamic shifts in heart rhythms, followed by recovery. Novices showed simpler, positive changes. This highlights HRV as a valuable tool for understanding mindfulness's physiological benefits, with distinct patterns emerging based on practice experience.
Abstract
Heart rate variability (HRV) is a potential biomarker that might demonstrate the effects of mindfulness, but it might be influenced by practice exp...
Multiday intravenous ketamine infusion therapy for the management of central sensitisation syndrome secondary to chronic chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathic pain.
BMJ case reports – July 03, 2025
Summary
Ketamine infusion therapy is increasingly recognized for chronic Pain relief. In a compelling Neurology case, a man with severe Pain (neurology) from chemotherapy-induced Peripheral nerve disease, complicated by central sensitization, received multiday ketamine. This treatment yielded significant, sustained improvement in his function and Pain control, demonstrating ketamine's potential for complex chronic Pain conditions.
Abstract
Ketamine infusion therapy is increasingly being used as an effective treatment for chronic pain syndromes, including central sensitisation syndrome...
Should we skip the trip? Clinical implications of psychedelic-associated subjective effects and the potential role of non-hallucinogenic alternatives.
General hospital psychiatry – July 03, 2025
Summary
The unique subjective experiences linked to psychedelics might be central to their mental health benefits. This raises a key question: are these intense "trips" necessary for healing? Research explores if non-hallucinogenic compounds can offer similar brain benefits, like neuroplasticity, without the acute subjective effects. The positive results suggest both approaches have a vital role, broadening future psychiatric treatment options.
Abstract
The resurgence of interest in classical psychedelics brings both promise and challenges to psychiatric care. Increasing evidence supports the thera...
Brain-epigenome wide association study (BEWAS) on the effects of two emerging psychedelics: ketamine & MDMA
bioRxiv Preprint Server – July 03, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like ketamine and MDMA induce lasting changes in brain gene activity. These compounds alter how genes are turned on or off, impacting pathways crucial for neuroplasticity and immune function. Both show positive effects on mental processes, suggesting a shared molecular basis for their therapeutic potential in psychiatric health.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds such as ketamine and MDMA have shown therapeutic promise for mood and trauma-related disorders, yet their molecular mechanism...
Understanding the Experience of Ketamine-Assisted Therapy and the Importance of Context.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – July 02, 2025
Summary
For those battling depression, the environment surrounding treatment can be as vital as the therapy itself. Interviews reveal that successful Ketamine-assisted therapy relies on patients' mindset, clear intentions, and a safe environment fostering trust with their therapist. Music also enhances the experience. These insights help optimize this promising therapy.
Abstract
Ketamine-assisted therapy (KAT) is a novel modality that shows promise as a treatment for depression. The current study sought to add to the scarce...
Psychiatric Residents' Perspectives on Psychedelics and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – July 02, 2025
Summary
Nearly 40% of future psychiatrists consider psychedelic-assisted therapy when choosing their training. A recent survey of psychiatry residency trainees revealed significant optimism for psychedelics' therapeutic potential. Despite limited formal graduate medical education on psychedelics, many residents were influenced by these emerging treatments when selecting programs, indicating a strong desire for expanded training in this promising field.
Abstract
This study evaluated the attitudes, knowledge, and educational experiences of psychiatry residents regarding psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted ...
[Hypnosis: An ancient therapeutic practice revived in modern science].
Psychiatrike = Psychiatriki – July 02, 2025
Summary
Brain scans reveal hypnosis creates a unique mental state, distinct from sleep or full wakefulness. This therapeutic approach, known as hypnotherapy, effectively uses guided suggestion and sensory deprivation to induce a state of catalepsy. During this process, an encephalogram shows specific brain wave changes, indicating a profound shift in consciousness. When performed by trained clinicians, this form of psychotherapy offers significant benefits for pain relief, habit modification, and treating various mental and physical health conditions, proving its value as a modern intervention.
Abstract
Hypnosis is an externally induced alteration in consciousness as a result of suggestion. Hypnotherapy, also called clinical hypnosis, is the use of...
Esketamine Monotherapy in Adults With Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
JAMA psychiatry – July 02, 2025
Summary
Many adults with severe depression find standard treatments insufficient. A clinical trial explored if esketamine nasal spray alone could reduce symptoms in those with treatment-resistant depression. Adults unresponsive to prior antidepressants received esketamine (56mg or 84mg) or placebo twice weekly for four weeks. Both esketamine doses significantly improved depressive symptoms by day 28, with effects seen within 24 hours. This offers a promising new treatment option for patients seeking relief.
Abstract
Esketamine nasal spray, administered in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, is approved for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). However, the...
Experienced meditators show greater forward traveling cortical alpha wave strengths.
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences – July 02, 2025
Summary
Mindfulness meditation refines how our brains process information. Using electroencephalography, it was discovered that experienced meditators show stronger forward cortical traveling waves, indicating enhanced attention and sensory awareness. This suggests meditation boosts bottom-up processing. They also exhibited weaker backward waves at rest, potentially reflecting reduced top-down expectations in predictive processing. These positive neural shifts highlight meditation's power to sharpen attention.
Abstract
Mindfulness meditation involves training attention, commonly toward sensory experiences, with nonjudgmental awareness. Theoretical perspectives pro...
From Breath to Strength: Does Mindfulness Improve Handgrip Strength Among Older Adults in India? A Propensity Score Matching Analysis.
Psychogeriatrics : the official journal of the Japanese Psychogeriatric Society – July 01, 2025
Summary
Mindfulness activities could surprisingly boost physical strength in older adults. A large study in India explored if engaging in mindfulness activities improves handgrip strength among those aging. It found that participants, especially men, showed modest but meaningful improvements in handgrip strength. This suggests integrating mindfulness into healthy aging strategies.
Abstract
The integration of mindfulness activities into the daily lives of older adults has demonstrated profound benefits for their overall well-being and ...
Examining mystical experiences as a predictor of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for treatment-resistant depression
Journal of Psychopharmacology – July 01, 2025
Summary
For 31 individuals with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, a single 25 mg dose of psilocybin, administered in a therapeutic context with a psychotherapist, yielded a greater antidepressant effect when accompanied by profound mystical experiences. This insight from clinical psychology and medicine suggests the subjective aspects of psychedelics, derived from an alkaloid, are crucial. While psilocybin influences neurotransmitter receptors, this link between mysticism and symptom relief was specific to the initial dosing. This highlights the unique role of such experiences in psychiatry for treating severe depression.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) is a promising treatment for various psychiatric disorders. However, the exact biological and p...
Single-dose (10 mg) psilocybin reduces symptoms in adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder: A pharmacological challenge study.
Comprehensive psychiatry – July 01, 2025
Summary
For many with Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), current treatments fall short. Researchers explored if psilocybin, a psychedelic, could offer relief. Participants with OCD received a single 10mg dose. Positive results showed significant, rapid reduction in symptoms, especially compulsions, lasting up to a week. Psilocybin was well-tolerated, presenting a promising new avenue for managing this condition.
Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common and disabling condition. A large proportion of patients fail to respond to first-line treatment wit...