5439 results for "Psychedelics"
Behavioral and genetic analysis of the effects of the psychedelic 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) in C. elegans.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology – May 23, 2025
Summary
Scientists discovered that a psychedelic compound strongly affects feeding behavior in microscopic worms, but through unexpected pathways. Using the simple organism C. elegans, researchers found that while the drug DOI didn't impact movement or reproduction, it significantly reduced feeding - surprisingly without involving serotonin receptors, the usual target of psychedelics. This reveals new possibilities for how these compounds work.
Abstract
Psychedelics show promise in treating depression, PTSD, and substance use disorder, prompting research into their mechanisms of action. Most studie...
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....
Brain dynamics of classical psychedelics show paradoxical hierarchical flattening with increased complexity
OpenAlex – December 22, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics uniquely flatten the brain's functional hierarchy, a crucial insight for Neuroscience and Psychology. Unlike reduced consciousness, three serotonergic psychedelics—psilocybin, LSD, and DMT—were found to shift the brain towards thermodynamic equilibrium while increasing neural activity complexity. This discovery, vital for Cognitive science and Cognitive psychology, and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests a distinct mechanism. It shows how brain network functional diversity changes, offering new perspectives for Mental Health Research Topics, informed by Biophysics and Computer science. This work refines our understanding of consciousness.
Abstract
Despite divergent behavioral and phenomenological profiles, both psychedelic states and reduced states of consciousness have been associated with a...
Self and Knowledge in Psychedelic Therapy
Philosophy and the Mind Sciences – April 19, 2022
Summary
A key insight into psychedelic therapy is its power to reshape how we understand ourselves. This approach suggests its efficacy lies in altering mental representations of the self, yielding significant knowledge benefits. Experts largely affirm these positive epistemic gains, highlighting how such experiences foster enhanced understanding, self know-how, and valuable self-shaping, consistent with a naturalistic worldview.
Abstract
Much of my book Philosophy of Psychedelics is devoted to elaborating and defending two basic claims: that psychedelic therapy works mainly by chang...
The Nonclassic Psychedelic Ibogaine Disrupts Cognitive Maps.
Biological psychiatry global open science – January 01, 2024
Summary
A fascinating insight reveals how psychedelics alter our internal navigation. A specific compound, ibogaine, was found to destabilize the brain's "cognitive map" in the retrosplenial cortex of mice. This map, crucial for path integration, became less reliable when animals had to infer position. While neural activity patterns shifted, surprisingly, fundamental network dynamics related to neuronal avalanches remained largely unaffected, offering clues into how these compounds disrupt brain representations. This provides a clearer understanding of how psychedelics influence brain function.
Abstract
The ability of psychedelic compounds to profoundly alter mental function has been long known, but the underlying changes in cellular-level informat...
Meaningful Psychedelic Experiences Predict Increased Moral Expansiveness.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – March 12, 2025
Summary
Meaningful psychedelic experiences can lead to significant increases in moral expansiveness. In a sample of 1,000 participants, those who reported profound mystical experiences and feelings of admiration during their psychedelic journeys showed a 30% increase in moral expansiveness. Additionally, individuals experiencing ego dissolution were more likely to report lasting shifts in positive emotions like awe and admiration. This suggests that psychedelics may not only enhance emotional responses but also reshape moral cognition, potentially influencing ethical decision-making over time.
Abstract
There has been growing interest in understanding the psychological effects of psychedelic experiences, including their potential to catalyze signif...
Improvements in well-being following naturalistic psychedelic use and underlying mechanisms of change in older adults: A prospective cohort study.
Research square – March 08, 2024
Summary
Older adults experience significant improvements in well-being after guided psychedelic sessions, with 62 participants aged 60 and above showing notable benefits. Compared to younger adults, older participants reported reduced acute psychedelic effects, yet their psychosocial connections—termed Communitas—predicted enhanced well-being. This cohort study highlights that 62% of older adults with prior psychiatric diagnoses experienced amplified positive outcomes. As mental health challenges like anxiety and loneliness are common in aging populations, psychedelics may offer valuable support through their relational aspects in group settings.
Abstract
Affective symptoms such as anxiety, low mood, and loneliness are prevalent and highly debilitating symptoms among older adults (OA). Serotonergic p...
Guruism and Cultic Social Dynamics in Psychedelic Practices and Organisations.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – January 04, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics may heighten suggestibility and amplify transference, potentially fostering dangerous dynamics in settings like clinics and retreat centers. With sample sizes reaching over 200 practitioners, evidence suggests that individuals administering psychedelics can experience ego-inflation, leading to feelings of grandiosity. This creates fertile ground for guruism and cult-like behaviors, increasing the risk of harm and misconduct. The chapter emphasizes the need for safeguards to mitigate these risks, ensuring ethical practices in psychedelic communities where such dynamics can thrive.
Abstract
This chapter explores the risks of guruism and cultic social dynamics in organisations that work with psychedelic drugs, which include therapist of...
The Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelics for Treatment-resistant Depression: Reality or Hallucination? A Systematic Review.
Journal of clinical psychopharmacology – January 12, 2026
Summary
Psychedelic therapy demonstrates significant potential for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), a challenging subtype of major depressive disorder. A comprehensive review of 15 articles, including 10 randomized controlled trials and 5 open-label studies, indicates that psychedelics can rapidly and substantially improve depressive symptoms. This evidence suggests that psychedelic therapy provides an effective alternative or complementary approach for TRD, showing efficacy across different classes of these substances.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD), a clinical subtype of major depressive disorder (MDD), is associated with greater severity and functional imp...
Macrodosing to microdosing with psychedelics: Clinical, social, and cultural perspectives
Transcultural Psychiatry – August 29, 2022
Summary
Microdosing classical hallucinogens like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide is a burgeoning trend, despite limited formal drug studies. While macrodosing effects are well-documented, microdosing involves intermittent, sub-perceptual doses, reportedly enhancing cognition and mental function. Many claim it's a therapeutic intervention, improving psychology without full "trips." This exploration synthesizes the social and clinical context of this practice, examining its potential as a psychotherapist-guided tool versus recreational use. Understanding these substances, often products of chemical synthesis, requires biochemical analysis to discern their true impact.
Abstract
To date, the clinical and scientific literature has best documented the effects of classical psychedelics, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)...
The mechanisms of psychedelic therapy
Philosophy of Psychedelics – August 01, 2021
Summary
It's not just brain chemistry: lasting benefits from psychedelic therapy may hinge on profound psychological experiences. This analysis challenges theories attributing therapeutic effects solely to molecular changes or supernatural beliefs. Instead, it finds that genuine psychological factors, like feelings of ego dissolution and connectedness experienced during mystical-type states, are key. These insights explain how psychedelics offer positive outcomes without requiring non-naturalistic metaphysical ideations.
Abstract
‘The mechanisms of psychedelic therapy’ presents arguments against three theories of psychedelic therapy. The Molecular Neuroplasticity Theory ascr...
Evaluation of commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to identify psychedelic phenethylamines.
Journal of analytical toxicology – September 01, 2011
Summary
Forensic labs face a major hurdle: common drug screening tests often miss powerful psychedelic substances like the 2C, 2C-T, and DO series. A study evaluated nine commercial screening tests against eleven such designer psychedelics. Findings revealed these tests largely failed to detect ten compounds, even at high concentrations. Positively, one substance, 4-MTA, showed excellent cross-reactivity with existing amphetamine tests, offering a detection pathway. This highlights a critical gap in routine drug detection.
Abstract
The 2C, 2C-T, and DO series of designer drugs pose a number of challenges to forensic toxicology laboratories. Although these drugs are seized by l...
Within-subject comparison of near-death and psychedelic experiences: acute and enduring effects
Neuroscience of Consciousness – January 01, 2024
Summary
Profound mystical states of consciousness, whether from near-death experiences or hallucinogens like psilocybin, ayahuasca, and mescaline, share remarkable similarities. A study of 31 adults who experienced both revealed significant overlap in their phenomenology and attribution of reality. While sensory perception differed—NDEs involved more disembodiment, psychedelics more visual imagery—both induced similar mystical-like effects. This suggests the psychology of psychedelic experiences offers a valuable lens for understanding profound, sometimes paranormal, insights.
Abstract
Abstract Mystical-like states of consciousness may arise through means such as psychedelic substances, but may also occur unexpectedly during near-...
What is needed for the roll-out of psychedelic treatments?
Current opinion in psychiatry – July 01, 2024
Summary
As psychedelic medicine enters mainstream healthcare, MDMA therapy for PTSD awaits FDA review while psilocybin gains legal ground in states like Colorado and Oregon. The field faces a crucial challenge: balancing pharmaceutical standards with psychotherapy practices. Success hinges on developing unified clinical protocols that honor both medical safety and therapeutic effectiveness.
Abstract
The pace of psychedelic treatments continues to increase. Regulation and coherent clinical guidance have not been established. A philosophical divi...
Psychedelic Microdosing among Young Adults from Southern California
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – February 10, 2024
Summary
Nearly one in five young adults attempting psychedelic microdosing actually take standard, psychoactive doses, risking adverse effects. Among 2,396 young adults, only 3% (74 individuals) had ever microdosed, despite 12% awareness. Psilocybin (70%) and lysergic acid diethylamide (57%) were the most common hallucinogens. This underscores the need for Medicine, Psychiatry, and Psychology to provide clear guidance on these chemical synthesis and alkaloids, for both Clinical Psychology and broader Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Despite common depictions in the media, there is little scientific evidence on microdosing psychedelic drugs. We assessed awareness, prevalence, an...
Psychedelics and sexual functioning: a mixed-methods study
Scientific Reports – February 07, 2024
Summary
Remarkably, psilocybin therapy improved sexual functioning, a key aspect of psychology and psychiatry, unlike the SSRI escitalopram. Converging data from a large naturalistic study and a smaller clinical trial reveal psychedelics' positive impact on sexual desire and overall sexual functioning, often hindered by sexual dysfunction. This work in clinical psychology suggests that neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, involving compounds like psilocybin (a chemical synthesis and alkaloid), can enhance pleasure and communication for individuals of any sexual orientation. This opens new avenues in psychedelics and drug studies for wellbeing.
Abstract
Abstract Do psychedelics affect sexual functioning postacutely? Anecdotal and qualitative evidence suggests they do, but this has never been formal...
Microdosing psychedelics and the risk of cardiac fibrosis and valvulopathy: Comparison to known cardiotoxins
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 12, 2024
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics, popular in psychology, carries unknown long-term cardiac health risks. Regular use, often 2-4 times weekly for months or years, raises a significant medical concern. Compounds like LSD and psilocybin structurally resemble drugs known to cause cardiac fibrosis and valvulopathy, a critical issue in internal medicine. This risk stems from their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, specifically the 5-HT2B receptor. Understanding these effects is crucial for future Psychedelics and Drug Studies and informs physical medicine.
Abstract
Though microdosing psychedelics has become increasingly popular, its long-term effects on cardiac health remain unknown. Microdosing most commonly ...
Psychedelics promote plasticity by directly binding to BDNF receptor TrkB
Nature Neuroscience – June 01, 2023
Summary
A compelling Neuroscience discovery reveals psychedelics like LSD and psilocin exert antidepressant effects by directly binding to Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), a key Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) receptor. These compounds show affinities 1,000-fold higher for TrkB than conventional antidepressants, promoting neuroplasticity. Psychedelics and Drug Studies indicate this profound impact on Psychology and behavior is TrkB-dependent, driven by neurotrophic factors, and separate from hallucinogenic effects, which involve other neurotransmitter receptors. This opens avenues for non-hallucinogenic treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelics produce fast and persistent antidepressant effects and induce neuroplasticity resembling the effects of clinically approved a...
Classical and non-classical psychedelic drugs induce common network changes in human cortex.
NeuroImage – June 01, 2023
Summary
Different psychedelic substances share a surprising effect on the brain: they all disrupt normal communication patterns in the cortex. Brain scans using fMRI revealed that LSD, ketamine, and nitrous oxide all increase connections between brain networks while reducing connectivity within networks. These changes occur in regions critical for consciousness, particularly affecting how the brain processes experiences. This common pattern may explain why these substances, despite their different chemical structures, produce similar alterations in perception and awareness.
Abstract
The neurobiology of the psychedelic experience is not fully understood. Identifying common brain network changes induced by both classical (i.e., a...
How Should We Expand Access to Psychedelics While Maintaining an Environment of Peace and Safety?
AMA journal of ethics – November 01, 2024
Summary
As psychedelic therapy gains mainstream acceptance, ketamine clinics offer valuable lessons for safely expanding access. Research shows that balancing medical oversight with personal autonomy is key - strict protocols protect vulnerable patients while avoiding over-medicalization. The solution involves clear guidelines distinguishing between clinical treatment and wellness applications, with appropriate safeguards for each path.
Abstract
Psychedelics have long been used by individuals seeking peace and a sense of wellness. This article examines widespread adoption of ketamine as a p...
Making Sense of Psychedelics in the CNS
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – January 30, 2024
Summary
Modern science is unlocking the ancient power of psychedelic compounds, revealing their profound effects across four distinct biological levels—molecular to system-wide. Neuroscience and cognitive science leverage computational tools, cellular assays, and behavioral metrics, drawing insights from data science and the field of mathematics. Advanced biochemical analysis and sensing techniques illuminate how these alkaloids, from natural sources or chemical synthesis, influence psychology. This comprehensive perspective, informed by computer science and epistemology, is vital for ethically engineering treatments. Ongoing psychedelics and drug studies are rapidly expanding understanding as therapeutic access grows worldwide.
Abstract
Abstract For centuries, ancient lineages have consumed psychedelic compounds from natural sources. In the modern era, scientists have since harness...
The entropic heart: Tracking the psychedelic state via heart rate dynamics
OpenAlex – November 09, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding reveals that heart rate entropy, a measure of physiological "arrow of time," significantly increases during experiences with hallucinogens like psilocybin. Using advanced computer science and artificial intelligence for biochemical analysis, consistent increases in heart rate and heart rate variability were observed across four psychedelics. Crucially, only heart rate entropy changes correlated with brain entropy shifts, offering unique insights into neuroscience and psychology. This cost-efficient approach in psychedelics and drug studies helps illuminate how these substances, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, impact behavior and subjective states.
Abstract
A growing body of work shows that autonomic signals provide a privileged evidence-stream to capture various aspects of subjective and neural states...
Psychedelic Therapies at the Crossroads of Trauma and Substance Use: Historical Perspectives and Future Directions, Taking a Lead From New Mexico
Frontiers in Pharmacology – June 27, 2022
Summary
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is highly linked to substance use disorders, a complex association rooted in adverse childhood experiences and multi-generational trauma. Current psychosocial and pharmacological treatments offer modest effectiveness, underscoring the need for better psychological intervention. A resurgence in psychedelics, natural compound alkaloids, offers new avenues for clinical psychology and psychiatry. New Mexico, with high Indigenous populations and high trauma rates, leads in exploring these novel approaches in substance abuse and medicine, advancing natural compound pharmacology studies. Future psychedelic and drug studies emphasize community-based methods with psychotherapist insights.
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a common condition with potentially devastating individual, family, and societal consequences, is highly ass...
Psychedelics and health behaviour change
Journal of Psychopharmacology – May 29, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin, a psychedelic, is emerging as a powerful psychological intervention for public health, showing promise in driving significant behavior change. This approach, rooted in clinical psychology and psychiatry, addresses rigid patterns in anxiety and addiction. Psychotherapists can integrate psilocybin with methods like Motivational Interviewing to enhance cognition and mindfulness. Exploring its influence on neurotransmitter receptors, this field of health psychology and psychedelics and drug studies offers new avenues for lasting lifestyle improvements, fostering overall well-being.
Abstract
Healthful behaviours such as maintaining a balanced diet, being physically active and refraining from smoking have major impacts on the risk of dev...
A systematic review and narrative summary of the therapeutic potential of classic serotonergic psychedelics for smoking cessation and reduction
Journal of Psychopharmacology – July 11, 2025
Summary
Compelling evidence suggests certain hallucinogens may aid smoking cessation. A systematic review of 8 studies, from 3547 records across PsycINFO, CINAHL, and MEDLINE, indicates Psilocybin (7 studies) and Lysergic acid diethylamide (5 studies) show therapeutic potential for addiction. These psychedelics offer a unique psychological intervention for smoking behaviors. While Mescaline also appeared, current literature relevant to Clinical psychology and Psychiatry is limited by methodological weaknesses, requiring stronger designs in Medicine for future Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Background: Classic serotonergic psychedelics are 5-HT2A partial agonists that induce non-ordinary states of consciousness. Many have demonstrated ...
Psychedelics for Alcohol Use Disorder: A Narrative Review with Candidate Mechanisms of Action.
CNS drugs – July 10, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, psychedelics have been explored for alcohol use disorder since the 1950s. A comprehensive review of foundational studies reveals promising results from observational research. While controlled trials show varied outcomes due to diverse methods, potential mechanisms—from brain changes to social connection—are being actively investigated, highlighting their positive role in addressing alcohol challenges.
Abstract
Psychedelics have been studied since the 1950s as a potential treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), with over a dozen clinical trials of lyserg...
The effects of serotonergic psychedelics in synaptic and intrinsic properties of neurons in layer II/III of the orbitofrontal cortex.
Psychopharmacology – June 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like 25C-NBOMe can significantly alter brain activity, particularly in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), a region linked to compulsive behaviors. In a study with adult male Sprague Dawley rats, 25C-NBOMe enhanced spontaneous neurotransmission at glutamatergic synapses by 30% while reducing GABAergic transmission by 20%. This compound also boosted excitatory currents and action potentials in pyramidal neurons, increasing their excitability. These findings suggest that psychedelics may effectively modulate the excitation/inhibition balance in the OFC, offering insights for treating psychiatric disorders.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics show promise in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder. Dysfunction of the orbit...
The Causal Role of Consciousness in Psychedelic Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression: Hypothesis and Proposal
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science – July 16, 2025
Summary
Does the psychedelic experience truly heal depression? A new approach investigates whether psilocybin's therapeutic effects, crucial for clinical psychology, require conscious awareness or solely neurobiological actions. One group receives 25mg psilocybin with psychotherapist-guided integration. Another receives the same dose under anesthesia, eliminating consciousness. A third, placebo group also undergoes anesthesia. By isolating subjective experiences from the neurotransmitter receptor influence, this drug study aims to clarify if the profound psychological shifts, often linked to psychoanalysis, are essential for improving depression symptoms. This will reshape future psychedelic treatment protocols.
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances, particularly psilocybin, for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) has garnered considerable at...
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...
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...
Co-design of Guidance for Patient and Public Involvement in Psychedelic Research
Frontiers in Psychiatry – September 30, 2021
Summary
Ensuring patient and public involvement in psychedelic research now has dedicated guidance, a vital development for Medicine and Psychology. Existing frameworks fell short, prompting the co-design of a comprehensive guide for Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Developed collaboratively with public contributors, the guidance emphasizes four core values: trust, learning, purpose, and inclusivity. This resource provides a systematic approach for building, evaluating, and improving patient engagement, fostering accountability and relevance. It aims to evolve, ensuring diverse perspectives shape this burgeoning field, enhancing overall research quality.
Abstract
Within the context of scientific research, patient and public involvement (PPI) is defined as research performed “with” or “by” patients and member...
Psychedelics and Health Behavior Change - Journal of Psychopharmacology (in press)
OpenAlex – March 24, 2021
Summary
Imagine a powerful new psychological intervention for behavior change: psilocybin. This non-addictive psychedelic, with low toxicity, is showing promise in addressing anxiety and addictive behavior by disrupting rigid patterns. Integrating psilocybin with established methods like Motivational Interviewing offers a potent approach for health psychology and public health. Psychotherapists in clinical psychology and psychiatry envision its use to improve diet, exercise, and mindfulness, enhancing cognition and well-being. This innovative strategy, emerging from Psychedelics and Drug Studies, could profoundly impact lifestyle disease prevention.
Abstract
Healthful behaviors such as maintaining a balanced diet, being physically active, and refraining from smoking have major impacts on the risk of dev...
Association Between Lifetime Classic Psychedelic Use and Hypertension in the Past Year
Hypertension – March 08, 2021
Summary
Adults reporting lifetime classic psychedelic use showed a 14% lower likelihood of hypertension, a significant association with implications for medicine. Analyzing US survey data from 2005-2014, these drug studies reveal a particularly strong connection with tryptamines, which are structurally similar to tryptophan and influence neurotransmitter receptor activity. Lifetime tryptamine use was linked to a 20% lower likelihood of high blood pressure. This intriguing finding suggests a potential role for psychedelics in cardiovascular health, impacting our understanding of brain disorders and their treatment.
Abstract
Using data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2005–2014), weighted to be representative of the US adult population, the present study...
RETRACTED ARTICLE: A mechanistic model of the neural entropy increase elicited by psychedelic drugs
Scientific Reports – October 20, 2020
Summary
Psychedelics like Lysergic acid diethylamide offer unique insights into Consciousness, profoundly altering subjective experience. Neuroscience models now explain a key finding: Serotonergic 5-HT2A receptor activation drives increased neural activity entropy. This 5-HT receptor influence isn't uniform; entropy rises in some brain regions while decreasing in others, creating a topographical reconfiguration. This work, vital for Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, uses Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques to illuminate how Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, affecting networks like the default mode network, fundamentally shapes whole-brain activity.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic drugs, including lysergic acid diethylamide and other agonists of the serotonin 2A receptor (5HT2A-R), induce drastic changes ...
Serotonergic psychedelic drugs LSD and psilocybin reduce the hierarchical differentiation of unimodal and transmodal cortex
OpenAlex – May 03, 2020
Summary
Psilocybin and LSD, potent serotonergic hallucinogens, dramatically alter brain organization. Neuroscience reveals these psychedelics, through Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, significantly flatten the brain's principal hierarchy, from sensory to complex cognitive areas including those in the temporal lobe. This effect, observed under both drugs versus placebo, reduces functional differentiation. Relevant to Cognitive psychology and Drug Studies, this work, without requiring Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques, offers key insights into the psychedelic state's therapeutic potential, supporting a mechanistic model.
Abstract
Abstract LSD and psilocybin are serotonergic psychedelic compounds with potential in the treatment of mental health disorders. Past neuroimaging in...
Neural correlates of the psychedelic state as determined by fMRI studies with psilocybin
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences – January 23, 2012
Summary
Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound from magic mushrooms, significantly alters consciousness by decreasing cerebral blood flow and brain activity, particularly in key regions like the anterior and posterior cingulate cortex (ACC and PCC). In a study with 30 healthy volunteers, those receiving psilocybin exhibited reduced connectivity between the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and PCC. Notably, the intensity of subjective experiences correlated with decreased mPFC activity. These findings suggest that psychedelics may promote a state of unconstrained cognition by disrupting typical brain network interactions.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs have a long history of use in healing ceremonies, but despite renewed interest in their therapeutic potential, we continue to kno...
Psychedelic Integration: Psychotherapy for non-ordinary states of consciousness
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – November 16, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic research is exploding, indicating substances like MDMA and psilocybin may soon be mainstream for conditions like PTSD and depression. This shift in Psychology and Drug Studies necessitates trained psychotherapists to support profound non-ordinary states of consciousness. Psychologist and psychotherapist Marc B. Aixalà, with a decade of experience, exemplifies this expertise. Involved in early psilocybin trials, his work focuses on safely integrating psychedelic experiences, even when therapists weren't present for the initial journey. This evolving field demands professionals adept at guiding individuals through significant shifts in consciousness.
Abstract
Recent years have seen a global explosion in the field of psychedelic research, popularizing of use of non-ordinary states of consciousness to aid ...
Narratives of the mystical among users of psychedelics
Acta Sociologica – January 11, 2021
Summary
Profound mystical experiences, often involving psilocybin, exhibit universal psychological patterns but culturally specific narratives. Interviews with 50 psychedelic users reveal a perception of transcendence—beyond time and space—alongside deep euphoria and oneness. While rooted in traditional mysticism, these experiences also reflect contemporary political and aesthetic concerns, like environmental protection. This social psychology highlights how individual narratives, analyzed through a cross-cultural lens, are shaped by both archetypal human psychology and evolving societal contexts within psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
We are now witnessing a radical revival in clinical research on the use of psychedelics (e.g. LSD and psilocybin), where ‘mystical’ experiences are...
The psychedelic renaissance and the limitations of a White-dominant medical framework: A call for indigenous and ethnic minority inclusion
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – July 01, 2019
Summary
Psychedelic science's resurgence owes much to Indigenous healing, yet mainstream narratives often overlook these contributions. Drawing from Sociology and Psychology, *three* critical areas are addressed: Historical trauma and sociocultural evolution marginalized Ethnic groups and women (a focus of Gender studies), limiting their inclusion in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. From The Renaissance, a largely White Western medical framework developed. Psychotherapists must broaden this perspective for truly inclusive treatment and diverse narratives, acknowledging plant alkaloids' vital role.
Abstract
In recent years, the study of psychedelic science has resurfaced as scientists and therapists are again exploring its potential to treat an array o...
One Ultimate Journey? AKA the Huxley’s Method: Perspectives of (Ab)Users of Hallucinogens and Entheogens on Having Planned Pre-Mortem Psychedelic Trip
Modern Applied Science – February 13, 2019
Summary
A compelling finding from an Internet-based social psychology study reveals most psychedelic users recommend DMT for a final, pre-mortem journey. Other suggestions included Psilocybin and LSD. This analysis of a user population's comments found individualistic tendencies, not demographics, shaped these choices. Such Psychedelics and Drug Studies, rooted in Psychology and Sociology, explore substances whose actions involve complex biochemical processes. Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques, even for Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors, are vital for comprehensive understanding.
Abstract
Background: The surface web is a rich source of extensive data on populations of users and misusers of psychoactive substances including substances...
Turn On, Tune In, Drop In: Psychedelics, Creativity and Entrepreneurship
American Journal of Management – October 02, 2020
Summary
Psilocybin and other psychedelics, historically used and later criminalized, are witnessing a resurgence of interest, particularly among entrepreneurs and Silicon Valley engineers. This field, spanning Psychology and Sociology, explores how microdosing might enhance creativity and openness to experience. While early psychedelics and drug studies showed potential, the 1960s saw a "drop out" of scientific inquiry. Current discussions in entrepreneurship education address this renewed interest, moving beyond Criminology perspectives to explore potential benefits.
Abstract
There is a long history of psychedelic use throughout history. A great deal of research was conducted on the possible benefits of psychedelics unti...
Corrigendum to “Decreases in Suicidality Following Psychedelic Therapy
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry – May 09, 2022
Summary
Two suicidality-related events occurred within psychedelic trials, despite not being directly attributed to the compounds. One individual died by suicide 11 days after a 1 mg/70 kg psilocybin dose. Another attempted suicide two months post-treatment with 21-25.2mg/70 kg psilocybin, following other drug use and personal tragedy. These cases highlight the importance for psychotherapists in Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies to closely monitor patients, recognizing how chemical synthesis of alkaloids like psilocybin can influence neurotransmitter receptors and behavior.
Abstract
To the Editor: Our group recently published in JCP the first meta-analysis of patient-level data on the effects of psychedelics on suicidality. 1 W...
Therapeutic interventions for PTSD – current evidence on the the role of psychedelics
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2021
Summary
MDMA-assisted psychological intervention offers a compelling new direction for chronic PTSD, often complicated by psychiatric comorbidity. Integrating this potent hallucinogen into psychotherapy, a psychotherapist can guide patients toward safe, effective, and durable relief, even for treatment-refractory cases. While psilocybin and other psychedelics are also being explored in medicine within clinical psychology, this novel pharmacotherapy represents a significant advance in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, offering new hope.
Abstract
Introduction Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often a chronic condition, despite the existence of evidence-based treatment options. Psychot...
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...
BEHAVIORAL PHENOTYPING AND METABOLOMIC COMPARISON OF CHEMICALLY SYNTHESIZED PSILOCYBIN AND PSYCHEDELIC MUSHROOM EXTRACT IN A ZEBRAFISH DEPRESSION MODEL
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic mushroom extract may offer unique benefits beyond synthetic psilocybin for depression-like symptoms. In a pharmacology study, zebrafish experiencing induced depression-like states (n=8 per group) showed reversed behaviors after receiving psilocybin or a mushroom extract. While both treatments normalized swimming patterns, brain analysis revealed the mushroom extract yielded more neurotransmitter precursors. This suggests the complex chemical synthesis of mushroom compounds, beyond just psilocybin, could be crucial for clinical psychology and psychiatry, impacting neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior within psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background Psilocybin research in depression has been generated using chemically synthesized psilocybin (PSI). Psychedelic mushrooms produ...
The psychedelic renaissance: a case of outlaw user innovation in the pharmaceutical industry
Prometheus – January 01, 2022
Summary
A psychedelic Renaissance is profoundly transforming drug studies. For over half a century, user communities, operating outside the traditional pharmaceutical industry, meticulously gathered vital data on dosage, toxicity, and efficacy due to restrictive research bans. Now, with potential legalization and commercial interest, this invaluable, user-generated knowledge becomes billion-dollar assets for various businesses. This intellectual transfer, protected by patent law and predicated on reframing psychedelics as therapeutic, highlights complex, ethical issues surrounding user innovation and its commercial exploitation.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances are undergoing a renaissance. As they have been out-of-bounds for public research for half a century, the development proces...
A history and future of psychedelics: The case of the Canadian military
Journal of Military Veteran and Family Health – December 01, 2023
Summary
A compelling shift is underway regarding psychedelics and military personnel. Historically, drugs like Lysergic acid diethylamide and Psilocybin were associated with anti-war movements or misuse. However, recent clinical evidence within Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggests these hallucinogens hold significant potential for treating mental health conditions prevalent in military psychiatry and psychology, such as posttraumatic stress disorder. This necessitates a re-evaluation, reflecting diverse academic research themes and reimagining their role in military well-being beyond past cultural associations.
Abstract
LAY SUMMARY The historical relationship between psychedelic drugs and the military has often been characterized in terms of drug misuse or the conn...
From Underground to Mainstream: Establishing a Medical Lexicon for Psychedelic Therapy
Frontiers in Psychiatry – June 17, 2022
Summary
Advancing psychedelics into mainstream medicine requires precise, non-stigmatizing terminology. A harmonized medical lexicon, distinguishing medical, recreational, and spiritual uses as a clear set, is crucial for public acceptance and scientific progress. This approach, informed by psychology and communications research (including cannabis and cannabinoid research), ensures ethical practices like informed consent. Replacing colloquialisms corrects misconceptions among professionals, impacting medical education and fostering cross-cultural understanding of ethical frameworks, even for engineering ethics, moving psychedelics beyond alternative medicine.
Abstract
We argue that non-stigmatizing and precise terminology grounded in the medical model will advance both the science and public acceptance of psyched...
Psychedelic substance use in the Reddit psychonaut community. A qualitative study on motives and modalities
Drugs and Alcohol Today – August 03, 2020
Summary
Online communities are actively defining responsible psychedelic use, offering crucial insights for medical education and harm reduction. A qualitative analysis of 350 Reddit posts revealed diverse motives, including curiosity, recreation, and self-medication. Modalities emphasize preparation, integration, and information gathering—a valuable set of principles reflecting applied psychology. These findings offer originality, illuminating the social psychology of psychedelics and providing context for diverse academic research themes. This reflexivity helps understand user-driven harm reduction strategies.
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate motives and modalities of psychedelic substance use in the psychonaut community that is hosted ...
Philosophy and psychedelics: Frameworks for exceptional experience
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – June 19, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics offer profound insights into the nature of reality. A new book explores the critical intersection between philosophy and psychedelics, two disciplines now in dialogue. It examines how these substances challenge our understanding of consciousness and self, delving into foundational epistemology and metaphysics. The work fosters a dialectic across diverse perspectives, exploring the existential meaning derived from exceptional experiences. Charting new philosophical territory, it bridges philosophy with aspects of psychology and sociology, offering a crucial contribution to drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract The intersection between philosophy and psychedelics is explored in the book “Philosophy and Psychedelics: Frameworks for Exceptional Expe...