1731 results for "Ketamine"
Loss of the sustained antidepressant-like effect of (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine in NMDA receptor GluN2D subunit knockout mice.
Journal of pharmacological sciences – March 01, 2024
Summary
A breakthrough in depression treatment shows that hydroxynorketamine, a safer derivative of ketamine, provides lasting relief through specific brain receptors. Scientists found that while this compound works quickly to lift depression in mice, its long-term benefits depend on a specific brain protein called GluN2D. The tail-suspension test revealed that removing this protein blocks the sustained antidepressant effects.
Abstract
Ketamine, an N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, has attracted attention for its acute and sustained antidepressant effects in patient...
Hallucinogen use in the United States, 2021-2023: Diverging trends and subgroup patterns.
Drug and alcohol dependence reports – March 01, 2026
Summary
Despite overall hallucinogen use remaining stable at around 2.8% from 2021-2023, national substance use trends show a significant shift. Epidemiology data from ages 12+ reveal LSD use declined from 0.88% to 0.58%, while ketamine use, another psychedelic, increased from 1.61% to 1.91%. This indicates evolving patterns among hallucinogens, with ketamine's prevalence rising (adjusted odds ratio 1.11 annually) as LSD's falls (adjusted odds ratio 0.83 annually). These substance use trends highlight changing preferences, influencing public health strategies.
Abstract
While interest in the therapeutic and recreational use of hallucinogens has increased, national surveillance often reports use in aggregate, potent...
Licit use of illicit drugs for treating depression: the pill and the process.
The Journal of clinical investigation – June 17, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough treatments for depression may depend not just on the medication itself, but also on the therapeutic setting and support provided. Research shows that psychedelic medicines like psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine work best when combined with professional psychological guidance. The patient's mindset and treatment environment significantly influence outcomes, suggesting these medications are most effective as part of a comprehensive therapeutic approach.
Abstract
Psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine have emerged as potentially effective treatments for rapid amelioration of the symptoms of mood and related psychiat...
Intravenous anesthetics have differential effects on human potassium channels.
Acta biochimica et biophysica Sinica – September 13, 2024
Summary
Different anesthetics can uniquely affect the body's vital potassium channels, which help control heart rhythm and blood pressure. Scientists found that common anesthetics like propofol and ketamine interact differently with these channels - some boosting their activity while others blocking them. These interactions may explain why certain anesthetics can cause hypotension or respiratory depression during surgery.
Abstract
General anesthetics are widely used in the clinic and greatly promote the development of surgery. However, the incidence of cardiovascular and resp...
Molecular mechanisms of rapid-acting antidepressants: New perspectives for developing antidepressants
Pharmacological Research – June 26, 2023
Summary
Ketamine offers rapid antidepressant effects, a significant advance given that conventional treatments for Major Depression often take weeks and fail two-thirds of patients. This pharmacology involves more than just the NMDA receptor, influencing other key receptors in the brain. Neuroscience is also exploring other psychedelics, like the hallucinogen psilocybin, which shows promise for rapid treatment. These drug studies highlight new avenues in medicine and psychology, targeting novel receptors to revolutionize antidepressant care.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a chronic relapsing psychiatric disorder. Conventional antidepressants usually require several weeks of continuo...
Efficacy and Safety of Pharmacological Treatment in Patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) – June 20, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough findings reveal two promising medications for complex regional pain syndrome, offering new hope for those suffering from this debilitating condition. A comprehensive meta-analysis of 23 clinical trials found that both bisphosphonates and ketamine provide significant long-term pain relief. While these pharmacological treatments showed mild side effects, they emerged as the most effective options for managing chronic pain symptoms.
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a disabling condition that usually affects the extremities after trauma or surgery. At present, there is n...
Significant changes in preference of illicit drug use in a population of Hanoi, Vietnam-A 6-year wastewater study (2018-2023).
Addiction (Abingdon, England) – July 23, 2025
Summary
Wastewater analysis in Hanoi, Vietnam, offers a unique lens into public health, revealing a major shift in illicit drug use. Over six years (2018-2023), samples showed a significant decline in methamphetamine use. However, ketamine surged, becoming the most prevalent drug by 2022. Heroin and cocaine levels remained low, even after the Covid-19 pandemic. This innovative monitoring method provides crucial insights into dynamic drug markets in Vietnam.
Abstract
Illicit drug use causes great harm and economical loss to society, yet there is limited understanding of its prevalence in the population in low-in...
Targeting metaplasticity mechanisms to promote sustained antidepressant actions.
Molecular psychiatry – April 01, 2024
Summary
Subanesthetic doses of ketamine and esketamine can quickly alleviate symptoms in treatment-resistant depression, with effects lasting even after the drugs leave the system. This finding challenges traditional views on depression treatment. With a focus on metaplasticity, which primes neurons for future changes, new antidepressants may enhance synaptic strength and plasticity. By targeting specific molecular pathways, these next-generation therapies could reduce dosing frequency and side effects while effectively addressing the underlying mechanisms of depression, potentially benefiting patients across diverse backgrounds.
Abstract
The discovery that subanesthetic doses of (R, S)-ketamine (ketamine) and (S)-ketamine (esketamine) rapidly induce antidepressant effects and promot...
Neurophysiological biomarkers of treatment response in suicidal ideation: a systematic review.
Translational psychiatry – November 17, 2025
Summary
Brain activity patterns offer crucial insights into effective treatments for suicidal thoughts. A review of 24 studies explored specific brain changes linked to treatment response. Findings show intravenous ketamine’s rapid benefits are tied to the anterior cingulate cortex, explaining its superior effects over oral forms. Electroconvulsive and magnetic seizure therapies improve symptoms by engaging the prefrontal cortex. These distinct brain region responses suggest how therapies might be refined for enhanced, positive outcomes.
Abstract
Suicidal ideation (SI) is associated with increased morbidity and is one of the main modifiable risk factors for suicide. While initial evidence in...
Licit use of illicit drugs for treating depression: the pill and the process
Journal of Clinical Investigation – June 16, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin and MDMA, powerful hallucinogens, consistently show promise in Psychiatry for treating Anxiety and other disorders, but always alongside a psychotherapist. This highlights the crucial role of Context and psychological Intervention in medicine. Ketamine, another potent drug, also benefits from such support. Future clinical psychology trials must compare these psychedelics and other drugs alone versus with structured psychological support, understanding how Expectancy theory and Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior contribute to therapeutic outcomes. This approach is vital for advancing Drug Studies and the application of chemical synthesis in medicine.
Abstract
Psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine have emerged as potentially effective treatments for rapid amelioration of the symptoms of mood and related psychiat...
Relationship between perioperative medications and risk of emergence agitation in children after sevoflurane anesthesia: a network meta-analysis.
Pediatric research – January 27, 2026
Summary
Reducing distress in children waking from anesthesia is a major goal. A comprehensive analysis of 70 studies, encompassing 7617 participants, identifies several highly effective medications for preventing emergence agitation after sevoflurane. Among 19 drugs evaluated, dexmedetomidine, propofol, midazolam, fentanyl, nalbuphine, and ketamine consistently and significantly lowered the incidence of agitation. These findings provide crucial evidence for optimizing pediatric anesthesia care, promoting calmer recoveries for young patients.
Abstract
To explore the efficacy of perioperative medications in preventing emergence agitation (EA) in children after sevoflurane anaesthesia. This network...
Psychotomimetic effects of PCP, LSD, and Ecstasy: pharmacological models of schizophrenia?
Cambridge University Press eBooks – February 04, 2010
Summary
PCP and ketamine have been shown to induce psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations and delusions, even in healthy individuals. In studies involving rodent and primate models, PCP demonstrated significant behavior alterations and cognitive deficits, mirroring human schizophrenia with a 75% correlation in psychotomimetic effects. Unlike PCP, LSD and MDMA do not appear to induce psychosis in those without prior vulnerability. Understanding the role of glutamatergic and serotonergic systems is crucial for developing effective treatments in psychiatry and pharmacology related to schizophrenia.
Abstract
Facts box Phencyclidine (PCP), ketamine, D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and 3, 4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA) have been variously refe...
Esketamine/Ketamine: Dual‐Action Mechanisms and Clinical Prospects beyond Anesthesia in Psychiatry, Immunology, and Oncology
Advanced Science – December 14, 2025
Summary
Esketamine and ketamine are gaining traction as effective perioperative analgesics and anesthetics, with their applications in the U.S. and Europe already established. In China, however, their use is still emerging. These drugs primarily work by blocking the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, offering benefits like pain relief and potential antidepressant effects. Despite their promise, concerns about side effects and addiction have led to regulatory restrictions. Comprehensive analysis of clinical and preclinical studies highlights their versatile roles in anesthesia, cancer treatment, and immune response management.
Abstract
Esketamine and ketamine are perioperative analgesics and anesthetics that have been widely adopted in clinical practice in Europe and the United St...
Neurochemical models of near-death experiences: A large-scale study based on the semantic similarity of written reports.
Consciousness and cognition – March 01, 2019
Summary
The consistent phenomenology of near-death experience across cultures points to a shared biological root. By analyzing 625 near-death experience narratives against 15,000 reports from 165 psychoactive substances, researchers discovered that dissociatives, especially ketamine, generated experiences most semantically similar to a near-death experience. Psychedelics also showed strong parallels. This breakthrough suggests ketamine offers a safe, reversible model for exploring these profound states, supporting a neurobiological explanation for the near-death experience.
Abstract
The real or perceived proximity to death often results in a non-ordinary state of consciousness characterized by phenomenological features such as ...
Involvement of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor GluN2C/GluN2D subunits in social behavior impairments in mice exposed to social defeat stress as juveniles.
Journal of pharmacological sciences – March 01, 2025
Summary
Early-life social stress can trigger lasting behavioral changes. New research shows that ketamine can reverse social difficulties in mice who experienced bullying-like stress during youth. The key lies in specific brain receptors called GluN2C/GluN2D, which become overactive after stress. Blocking these receptors helped restore normal social behavior, suggesting a promising pathway for treating stress-related mental health issues in young people.
Abstract
Glutamatergic system dysfunction is associated with the pathophysiology of stress-related psychiatric disorders. However, the role of N-methyl-D-as...
[Not Available].
La Tunisie medicale – November 05, 2024
Summary
In treating severe pain in emergency settings, low-dose ketamine proves as effective as traditional opioids like morphine. A comparison of 120 emergency patients found that both treatments successfully reduced pain levels from severe (8.7/10) to manageable levels within 10 minutes. While ketamine worked slightly faster and achieved lower pain scores, it did cause more side effects. This finding offers emergency physicians an important alternative to opioids for rapid pain relief.
Abstract
Severe pain is a therapeutic emergency that can be life-threatening by its location, its repercussions or the misdiagnosis it can cause. To investi...
A scientometric analysis of research on the role of NMDA receptor in the treatment of depression.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals how ketamine's interaction with NMDA receptors revolutionizes depression treatment. Analysis of 5,092 scientific publications shows growing interest in this field, with the U.S. leading global research efforts. Studies highlight ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects through brain plasticity and stress response. Research trends point to promising developments in treating resistant depression, while scientists explore ways to minimize side effects.
Abstract
There have been numerous studies on NMDA receptors as therapeutic targets for depression. However, so far, there has been no comprehensive scientom...
Single arketamine in treatment resistant depression: Presentation of 3 cases with regard to sick-leave duration.
Asian journal of psychiatry – June 01, 2024
Summary
A single dose of arketamine (R-ketamine) showed remarkable promise in helping patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) return to work. In three cases, this innovative treatment reduced sick-leave duration and improved daily functioning. A year-long follow-up revealed sustained benefits, with patients experiencing fewer hospitalizations and better social engagement, though careful monitoring remains essential.
Abstract
Ketamine is the prototypal rapid-acting antidepressant (RAAD) for TRD with approved indication for esketamine-nasal spray (ESK-NS). Distinctly, ark...
Psychedelic‐assisted treatment for substance use disorder: A narrative systematic review
Addiction – January 30, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted treatment for alcohol use disorder shows the strongest evidence among major psychedelic treatments. A systematic review of 37 studies, involving 2035 participants, explored the potential of hallucinogens like Psilocybin, Lysergic acid diethylamide, Mescaline, and MDMA in psychiatry. This comprehensive analysis, including randomized controlled trials against placebo, indicates promising avenues for clinical psychology and medicine. For instance, four studies with 135 participants on Psilocybin for alcohol use disorder demonstrated the best evidence of efficacy. This field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies is advancing our understanding of substance use disorders.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims This is the first systematic review of the extant literature on all major psychedelic‐assisted treatment for alcohol u...
Effects of NMDA receptor antagonists on working memory and gamma oscillations, and the mediating role of the GluN2D subunit.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – May 15, 2025
Summary
Brain synchronization patterns, known as gamma waves, play a crucial role in our ability to temporarily hold and process information. Research reveals that certain brain receptors influence both these waves and memory function, particularly through a component called GluN2D. When scientists blocked these receptors in mice, they found disrupted memory performance and altered brain wave patterns. However, mice lacking GluN2D showed resistance to some of these effects, highlighting this component's importance in memory processing and brain wave coordination.
Abstract
Working memory relies on synchronised network oscillations involving complex interplay between pyramidal cells and GABAergic interneurons. NMDA rec...
Effects of esketamine on postoperative pain and inflammatory factors in children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy.
Minerva anestesiologica – January 01, 2025
Summary
A promising advance in pediatric pain management shows that esketamine significantly reduces post-surgery discomfort in children after throat operations. The medication not only lowered pain scores and emergence agitation but also decreased inflammatory markers in the blood. Children receiving esketamine experienced better recovery with fewer complications compared to standard treatment, making it a safe and effective option for young patients.
Abstract
This study aimed to observe the effect of esketamine on postoperative pain and inflammatory factors in children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoi...
Efficacy and safety of esketamine hydrochloride adjunct to sufentanil in non-surgical patients under mechanical ventilation in the ICU (SENSATION trial): protocol for a multicentre, single-blind, randomised controlled trial.
BMJ open – September 25, 2024
Summary
Innovative pain management in critical care: Doctors are testing esketamine as a safer alternative to traditional painkillers in ICU patients on ventilators. This randomized controlled trial explores combining esketamine with standard pain medication to reduce overall opioid use in adult intensive care. The goal is better pain management with fewer side effects for critically ill patients.
Abstract
Pain is common in patients receiving mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit (ICU). Intravenous opioids are recommended as first-line the...
Correlations between major depressive disorder, splenic morphology, and immune function.
BMC psychiatry – May 12, 2025
Summary
Elevated immune markers and enlarged spleens may play a key role in depression. In groundbreaking findings, patients with major depressive disorder showed significantly larger spleens and higher levels of immune proteins compared to healthy individuals. Treatment with (S)-ketamine successfully reduced both splenic size and inflammation markers, while improving mood. These results reveal a fascinating connection between depression, splenic morphology, and immune function, suggesting new pathways for treatment.
Abstract
To analyze the symptoms, courses, and severities of depressive disorder, as well as the morphological changes in the spleens and related immune mec...
Ascorbic Acid and Esketamine for Mental Disorders in Women with Miscarriage: A Randomized Controlled Double-Blind Trial Protocol.
Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment – January 01, 2025
Summary
Vitamin C may hold promise in enhancing ketamine's ability to prevent depression and anxiety after pregnancy loss. New research explores how combining these treatments could help women recover mentally after miscarriage. The study tests whether vitamin C can boost ketamine's mood-lifting effects while reducing side effects. This approach may improve sleep quality and manage pain, offering a gentler path to emotional healing.
Abstract
Pregnancy leads to vulnerabilities and susceptibilities to mental disorders. Miscarriage, as an adverse pregnancy outcome, and following curettage ...
Is there a risk of esketamine misuse in clinical practice?
Therapeutic advances in drug safety – January 01, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough therapy esketamine offers new hope for treatment-resistant depression, with studies showing sustained benefits lasting up to 4.5 years. Despite initial concerns about risk of abuse, especially in high-risk populations with substance use disorder, clinical data shows no documented cases of addiction or misuse. The medication's strict medical supervision and dosing protocols have proven effective in ensuring safe treatment.
Abstract
In 2019, intranasal esketamine gained approval as a promising therapy for those individuals grappling with treatment-resistant depression. Both cli...
Association between pre-procedural anxiety and vomiting in children who undergo procedural sedation and analgesia in the emergency department.
BMC emergency medicine – October 09, 2024
Summary
Anxiety levels before medical procedures don't increase vomiting risk in children receiving sedation, according to new findings. When kids need painful procedures in emergency departments, doctors often use ketamine for safe sedation. While about 1 in 4 children experienced vomiting during or after treatment, their pre-procedure anxiety levels weren't linked to this side effect.
Abstract
Children presenting to the emergency department (ED) often require procedural sedation and analgesia (PSA) prior to procedures. Although ketamine i...
Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated cerebral cortical encephalitis with super-refractory status epilepticus.
Brain & development – November 01, 2024
Summary
A rare form of autoimmune encephalitis linked to myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein can trigger severe, uncontrollable seizures. In a breakthrough case, doctors successfully treated a young patient's resistant seizures using a combination of ketamine infusion and specialized steroid therapy delivered directly to the nervous system. This treatment proved effective when traditional anti-seizure medications failed, offering new hope for managing this challenging condition.
Abstract
Seizures are commonly reported in patients with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated cerebral cortical encephalitis (MOG-CCE). H...
Perspectives in treatment-resistant depression: esketamine and electroconvulsive therapy.
Wiener klinische Wochenschrift – March 01, 2025
Summary
When traditional antidepressant treatments fail, new hope emerges: nasal esketamine and modern electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) show remarkable success in treating stubborn depression. Both approaches help patients with treatment-resistant depression achieve significant improvement, with ECT showing higher response rates while esketamine offers a less invasive option.
Abstract
Modern electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and the approval of nasal esketamine for clinical use have significantly improved the approach to treatment-...
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies for Psychosocial Symptoms in Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Current Oncology – June 30, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics offer significant promise for cancer patients. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, including data from the Cochrane Library, revealed that psilocybin and ketamine markedly reduce psychosocial distress. For instance, three psilocybin trials with 101 participants showed a large effect on depression (Hedges' g = -3.13). Four ketamine trials (354 participants) demonstrated rapid, large effects on depression and anxiety (Hedges' g = -1.37) compared to placebo. This burgeoning area of medicine, relevant to psychiatry and clinical psychology, highlights how these chemical synthesis alkaloids influence behavior, offering new therapeutic context for internal medicine.
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates (1) the effectiveness of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) using psilocybin and ketamine for ps...
Understanding the role of the NMDA receptor subunit, GluN2D, in mediating NMDA receptor antagonist-induced behavioral disruptions in male and female mice.
Journal of neuroscience research – January 01, 2024
Summary
GluN2D subunit plays a crucial role in how NMDA receptor antagonists like ketamine and PCP affect behavior. In a study involving 80 GluN2D knockout mice (40 male, 40 female), those lacking this subunit exhibited reduced hyperlocomotion in response to these drugs. Interestingly, sex-specific effects emerged: S-ketamine impaired spatial recognition memory in females, while both sexes showed anxiety-related behaviors influenced by the drugs. This highlights the complex interplay between genetics and drug effects on schizophrenia-relevant behaviors, emphasizing the need for tailored therapeutic approaches.
Abstract
Noncompetitive NMDA receptor (NMDAR) antagonists like phencyclidine (PCP) and ketamine cause psychosis-like symptoms in healthy humans, exacerbate ...
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Classic and non‐classic psychedelics for substance use disorder: A review of their historic, past and current research
Addiction Neuroscience – June 22, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics offer a compelling new frontier for substance use disorder, a global public health concern where current psychiatric treatments face challenges. Drug studies present moderate evidence for psilocybin and ketamine in Alcohol Use Disorder, and ketamine for opiate/alcohol withdrawal. THC preparations also aid cannabis/opioid withdrawal symptoms. These substances, often alkaloids from chemical synthesis, influence behavior via neurotransmitter receptors. This fluid area of psychology suggests their significant potential as adjunct therapies, transforming approaches to addiction.
Abstract
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a global public health concern that affects millions of people worldwide. Considering current research, addiction h...
Defining ‘psychedelic’
OpenAlex – December 04, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin uniquely delivers 'soul-illumination,' characterized by visions and psychological insight, confirming its place as the quintessential psychedelic drug. Over 200 individuals described their experiences with psilocybin, ketamine, and MDMA. Analyzing these accounts revealed 3-4 distinct dimensions of subjective experience. A predictive model accurately identified which drug an individual had taken based solely on these effects. While ketamine primarily induces dissociation and MDMA fosters pro-social feelings and love, psilocybin stands apart for its profound capacity to manifest visions and deep psychological understanding.
Abstract
Humphry Osmond coined the term ‘psychedelic’ in 1956, conjoining ‘psyche’ for ‘soul’ and ‘delic’ from ‘dêlos’ for ‘to manifest’ or ‘illuminate.’ So...
An Update on the Epidemiology of Tusi ("Pink Cocaine").
Current addiction reports – January 01, 2025
Summary
"Pink cocaine," or Tusi, is a dangerous polysubstance mixture emerging globally, with its inconsistent composition posing significant risks. Drug checking programs reveal Tusi typically contains Ketamine and MDMA, but other substances are frequently added, creating unpredictable blends. Data from Spain indicates Ketamine concentrations in Tusi have increased. This variability, combined with frequent polysubstance use, elevates health risks. Tusi exemplifies a trend where drug identity is linked to color and nightlife, complicating harm reduction efforts.
Abstract
Tusi, also known as "pink cocaine," has emerged across nightlife scenes in Latin America, Europe, Australia, and the United States (US). Tusi is ty...
Wastewater-based monitoring of 2-fluoro-deschloroketamine abuse from 2019 to 2021 in a southern Chinese province.
The Science of the total environment – June 20, 2022
Summary
2-fluoro-deschloroketamine (FDCK) became the most consumed synthetic drug in a southern Chinese province by 2019, even surpassing peak ketamine abuse levels from 2014. Using wastewater-based epidemiology, analysis revealed FDCK consumption dramatically decreased in 2020 and 2021 due to proactive law enforcement. However, despite these efforts, FDCK remained the most abused substance by 2021, demonstrating its persistent presence. This highlights the rapid spread and enduring challenge of FDCK abuse in China, suggesting similar psychoactive effects to ketamine.
Abstract
2-fluoro-deschloroketamine (FDCK) is a ketamine (KET) analog and new psychoactive substance that has appeared on the drug market in Europe and Chin...
Current Evidence for the Role of Rapid-Acting Antidepressants in Bipolar Depression: A Perspective and Plan for Action
Biological Psychiatry – March 08, 2025
Summary
A new **perspective** in **psychiatry** reveals (es)ketamine's established efficacy in **Treatment of Major Depression** and **Bipolar Disorder Treatment**. This rapid **action** brings hope for **millions** with **bipolar disorder** and severe **depression** (a significant economic burden). However, **current neuroscience** exploring novel **brain disorders** **medicine**, including psychedelics, lacks comprehensive **psychology** studies for bipolar depression beyond existing **phase II, III, and IV** trials. A **psychotherapist** might also consider **tryptophan**'s role.
Abstract
After decades of limited progress in depression treatment, recent advancements have sparked renewed interest in developing novel antidepressants, p...
Trips Through the Skin: Reviewing Cutaneous Drug Reactions to Psychedelics and Hallucinogens
Dermatitis – April 18, 2024
Summary
Despite growing interest in hallucinogen and psychedelic substances for Medicine, their dermatologic side effects are poorly characterized. A review of 22 Psychedelics and Drug Studies on 40 patients revealed diverse dermatologic issues. Psilocybin, for instance, caused vesicular eruptions in four patients. Cannabis-related reactions included type I hypersensitivity in 21 cases. Other findings detailed acneiform eruptions from MDMA and ketamine hypersensitivity. Characterizing these dermatologic impacts is vital for patient care.
Abstract
Although psychedelic and hallucinogenic substances have gained popularity for therapeutic use, their dermatologic adverse effects are poorly charac...
Have Effective Antidepressants Finally Arrived? Developments in Major Depressive Disorder Therapy.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – August 14, 2023
Summary
Recent breakthroughs in depression treatment show promising alternatives for patients who don't respond to traditional medications. New approaches include modified versions of ketamine, innovative drug combinations, and neurosteroids that work through different brain pathways. Early results indicate faster relief and better outcomes, particularly in treatment-resistant cases, with some patients showing improvement within days rather than weeks.
Abstract
Among the greatest unmet needs in major depressive disorder (MDD) is a lack of effective pharmacotherapies for patients who do not respond to first...
Comparison of Recurrence of Malignancy Following Two Opioid-free General Anesthesia Regimens versus Standard Care Using Opioids: A Retrospective Analysis.
Annals of African medicine – June 11, 2025
Summary
Cancer patients receiving lidocaine-based opioid-free anesthesia showed lower cancer recurrence rates than those given traditional opioid anesthesia. In a 150-patient study, those receiving lidocaine infusions had shorter hospital stays and significantly lower malignancy recurrence after one year compared to groups receiving either dexmedetomidine-ketamine or standard opioid treatment.
Abstract
Immunosuppressant effects of anesthesia can be reduced by avoiding opioids and volatile anesthetics. We retrospectively compared incidence of recur...
Partial rescue of schizophrenia-related phenotypes in young adult Sp4 hypomorphic mice.
Journal of psychiatric research – July 01, 2025
Summary
Scientists have discovered that restoring a specific gene in adult mice can improve some schizophrenia-like symptoms. Using a specialized virus delivery system, researchers restored the Sp4 gene in mice with reduced gene function. The treatment improved their startle responses (prepulse inhibition) and normalized their reaction to ketamine, though memory deficits persisted. This breakthrough suggests potential new therapeutic approaches for psychiatric disorders, particularly schizophrenia.
Abstract
The Schizophrenia Exome Sequencing Meta-Analysis (SCHEMA) Consortium found that truncation of one copy of the SP4 gene has an odds ratio of 9.37 (3...
Chronic, combinatorial targeting of NMDARs and 5-HT4Rs exerts extended behavioral effects against stress-induced perseverative behavior and hyponeophagia.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – April 22, 2025
Summary
Combining two FDA-approved drugs - ketamine and prucalopride - shows remarkable promise in reducing stress-related behaviors. When administered together chronically, these medications effectively decreased fear responses, behavioral despair, and anxiety-like behaviors in both male and female subjects. The treatment worked through both injection and nasal spray, offering potential new hope for treating various stress-induced mental health conditions.
Abstract
Serotonin (5-HT) receptors and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) have both been implicated in stress-induced psychiatric disorders. However, ...
Contribution of serotonin 5-HT<sub>2A</sub> receptor to antidepressant effect of serotonergic psychedelics
Folia Pharmacologica Japonica – March 28, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding in Medicine reveals that 30-40% of major depressive disorder patients are treatment-resistant. While Ketamine offers an antidepressant option, Psilocybin, a Serotonergic hallucinogen alkaloid, is emerging as a safer alternative. Recognized by the FDA as a "breakthrough therapy," Psilocybin shows fast, lasting effects, even for treatment-resistant cases. This "psychedelic renaissance" in Psychiatry explores how these compounds, including Lysergic acid diethylamide, influence Serotonin receptors. Psychology and Pharmacology are delving into their mechanisms, offering hope for Anxiety and depression via Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, advancing Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder presents a substantial global health burden, and at least 30-40% of patients exhibit treatment resistance to antidepressa...
Tusi but not 2C: A Miami-Dade medical examiner case series highlighting the variable drug composition in colored powder paraphernalia.
Journal of forensic sciences – May 01, 2025
Summary
Pink cocaine, known as "tusi" on the streets, isn't what many assume. Miami-Dade forensic toxicology reports reveal these colorful powders consistently contain ketamine and MDMA, but surprisingly never 2C-B, the compound they're thought to mimic. Analysis of postmortem cases shows these mixtures often include various stimulants and medications, highlighting dangerous unpredictability in their composition.
Abstract
Eight fatalities between September 2020 and July 2024 in Miami-Dade County involving the ingestion of colored powders, referred to as "tusi," "tuci...
Demystifying the Antidepressant Mechanism of Action of Stinels, a Novel Class of Neuroplastogens: Positive Allosteric Modulators of the NMDA Receptor.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) – January 24, 2025
Summary
Scientists have discovered a breakthrough in depression treatment: a new class of drugs called Stinels that work faster and more safely than traditional antidepressants. Unlike ketamine, which blocks brain receptors and can cause dissociative effects, Stinels gently enhance receptor activity through positive modulation, promoting healthy brain plasticity without serious side effects.
Abstract
Plastogens are a class of therapeutics that function by rapidly promoting changes in neuroplasticity. A notable example, ketamine, is receiving gre...
N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists for the prevention of chronic postsurgical pain: a narrative review.
Regional anesthesia and pain medicine – February 05, 2025
Summary
Chronic pain after surgery affects millions, but certain medications may help prevent this debilitating condition. Targeting specific brain receptors with drugs like ketamine, magnesium, and methadone during surgery shows promise in managing acute postoperative pain. While these medications improve immediate post-surgery analgesia, their long-term benefits for preventing chronic pain remain unclear, particularly for high-risk patients. This pharmacological approach could significantly impact public health by reducing the burden of persistent surgical pain.
Abstract
The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) has been linked to the development of chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP), defined as pain after surgery tha...
Epidemiology of New Psychoactive Substances in Relation to Traditional Drugs of Abuse in Clinical Oral Fluid Samples.
Basic & clinical pharmacology & toxicology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Novel synthetic drugs were detected in only 1.4% of over 34,000 oral fluid samples from Swedish psychiatric patients, revealing unexpected patterns. Using advanced mass spectrometry, researchers found that older adults use these substances more than previously thought. Ketamine use strongly predicted new psychoactive substance use, while kratom showed unique patterns suggesting its role in opioid withdrawal management.
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are health-hazardous through unpredictable toxicity and effects and largely unknown epidemiology, motivating stud...
Ciliopathy interacts with neonatal anesthesia to cause non-apoptotic caspase-mediated motor deficits.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology – November 27, 2024
Summary
Early exposure to anesthesia in newborns with genetic ciliary defects can impact motor development through unexpected cellular mechanisms. Scientists found that ketamine anesthesia in mice with ciliary disorders triggered changes in brain cell connections and motor skills. Rather than causing cell death, the anesthesia activated specific proteins that altered nerve cell structure. Importantly, blocking these proteins prevented motor problems, suggesting potential protective strategies for vulnerable newborns.
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests that anesthesia may induce developmental neurotoxicity, yet the influence of genetic predispositions associated with c...
5-HT1B receptor activation produces rapid antidepressant-like effects in rodents.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – February 01, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough research reveals a promising new pathway for treating depression through serotonin receptor activation. Scientists found that targeting 5-HT(1B) receptors produced fast-acting antidepressant effects in multiple behavioral tests. The treatment enhanced synaptic plasticity in the brain and activated the lateral habenula circuit, showing rapid onset benefits similar to ketamine but through a different mechanism.
Abstract
Ketamine is noted for its rapid onset antidepressant response and effectiveness in patients with treatment resistant depression. While most researc...
Intravenous Sedation and Analgesia in a Pediatric Emergency Department: A Retrospective Descriptive Study.
Cureus – August 01, 2024
Summary
Pain control in children's emergency care is safer than many parents think. A five-year analysis of over 600 young patients shows that combining ketamine and midazolam for sedation during emergency procedures like wound stitching and fracture treatment is remarkably effective. While 8% experienced minor side effects, all recovered quickly without complications. This approach helps children stay calm and pain-free during urgent medical procedures.
Abstract
Background Painful procedures in the pediatric emergency department often require the use of sedation and analgesia to ensure adequate pain control...
Substance specific EEG patterns in mice undergoing slow anesthesia induction.
BMC anesthesiology – May 03, 2024
Summary
Different anesthetics create unique brainwave signatures in mice, much like fingerprints of unconsciousness. Scientists tracked EEG patterns as mice received common anesthetics like propofol, ketamine, sevoflurane, and dexmedetomidine. Each drug produced distinct brain activity changes - sevoflurane and propofol decreased mid-range waves while increasing faster ones, while dexmedetomidine shifted activity to slower frequencies.
Abstract
The exact mechanisms and the neural circuits involved in anesthesia induced unconsciousness are still not fully understood. To elucidate them valid...
New pharmacotherapies to tackle the unmet needs in bipolar disorder: a focus on acute suicidality.
Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy – March 01, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking advances in drug treatment show promise for reducing suicide risk in people with bipolar disorder. New research reveals that targeting glutamatergic transmission in the brain, particularly with ketamine and esketamine, can rapidly decrease suicidal ideation. These medications offer hope for preventing suicide attempts through quick-acting mechanisms, unlike traditional treatments that take weeks to work.
Abstract
Suicidal behavior is relatively frequent in patients with bipolar disorder (BD) and constitutes their most frequent cause of death. Suicide rates r...