5439 results for "Psychedelics"
Dreams and Psychedelics: Neurophenomenological Comparison and Therapeutic Implications
Current Neuropharmacology – June 19, 2017
Summary
The profound overlap between dreaming and states induced by hallucinogens like Psilocybin, Lysergic acid diethylamide, and Ayahuasca is a compelling finding in Psychology. This unique perception shift, explored in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests these chemically synthesized alkaloids could foster long-term improvements in psychosocial well-being. Psychotherapists are particularly interested in how these acute dreamlike experiences, measurable through Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques, correlate with sustained therapeutic outcomes.
Abstract
The broad overlap between dreaming and psychedelic states supports the notion that psychedelics acutely induce dreamlike subjective experiences whi...
Serotonergic Psychedelics in Neural Plasticity
Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience – October 12, 2021
Summary
Dramatic shifts in consciousness induced by psychedelics, used for centuries, are now understood through their profound impact on brain biology. Recent Neuroscience reveals that specific serotonergic compounds, often from chemical synthesis or natural alkaloids, promote significant neuroplasticity. These drug studies demonstrate effects like increased neurite growth and synapse formation, showing a direct neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior and mental states. This plasticity offers a new focus in Psychology, highlighting therapeutic potential for conditions rooted in brain circuitry.
Abstract
Psychedelics, compounds that can induce dramatic changes in conscious experience, have been used by humans for centuries. Recent studies have shown...
Policy considerations that support equitable access to responsible, accountable, safe, and ethical uses of psychedelic medicines
Neuropharmacology – August 13, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin and MDMA, combined with psychosocial support, offer profound potential for safe, rapid, and durable clinical improvements. Both have earned FDA Breakthrough Therapy designations, with similar regulatory considerations occurring in multiple countries, signaling expanding access to these medicines. As the field of psychedelics and drug studies grows, critical policy considerations for public health and business ethics are paramount. Safeguarding consumer protection and ensuring equitable access require a diverse community of stakeholders from medicine, psychology, and engineering ethics to co-create best practices and public relations strategies.
Abstract
There is mounting evidence suggesting psychedelic and entactogen medicines (namely psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine [MDMA]), in con...
Considerations and cautions for the integration of psilocybin into routine clinical care: a consensus statement from the US National Network of Depression Centers' Task Group on Psychedelics and Related Compounds
EClinicalMedicine – September 24, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin offer transformative potential for psychiatric treatment. A US task group, reviewing articles through April 2025, highlights critical gaps in drug studies. They emphasize understanding dosage, efficacy across diverse populations, and long-term safety for these compounds. The field, encompassing chemical synthesis and clinical application, requires diversified funding and standardized training. Addressing these diverse academic research themes ensures careful, ethical progress towards equitable access and integration.
Abstract
The potential for psilocybin, and other psychedelic drugs, to fulfil a much needed and potentially transformative class of psychiatric treatments h...
Pharmacological characterisation of psilocybin and 5-MeO-DMT discriminative cues in the rat and their translational value for identifying novel psychedelics
Journal of Psychopharmacology – August 27, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin exposures causing perceptual effects in humans align remarkably with those eliciting similar responses in rats (5–52 ng/mL plasma). This demonstrates the translational value for Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Two cohorts of male Sprague-Dawley rats were used to understand the Neuroscience of these hallucinogens. Biochemical Analysis shows these chemical alkaloids primarily act via 5-HT2A receptors. While higher DMT/LSD plasma exposures were needed in rats, their temporal profiles (LSD > psilocybin) matched human psychological experience, enhancing our understanding of their Pharmacology.
Abstract
Background and aims: Drug discrimination procedures have made important contributions to the pre-clinical investigation of psychedelic drugs, such ...
Psychedelic integration challenges: Participant experiences after a psilocybin truffle retreat in the Netherlands
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – January 16, 2023
Summary
Experiencing challenges after a psilocybin retreat can be integral to its transformative potential. Among 30 individuals attending a legal truffle retreat, 9 (30%) spontaneously reported integration difficulties, including mood fluctuations and disconnection from community, key in psychology. These transient experiences, aligned with 'spiritual emergency' in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, often resolved, correlating with positive outcomes. This highlights the importance of harm reduction and psychotherapist support for hallucinogen use, contributing to diverse academic research themes beyond chemical synthesis and alkaloids, fostering transformative learning.
Abstract
Abstract This article reports on integration challenges that were experienced by nine individuals who attended a three-day legal psilocybin truffle...
Psilocybin-induced changes in brain network integrity and segregation correlate with plasma psilocin level and psychedelic experience
OpenAlex – February 05, 2021
Summary
A single dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin profoundly alters brain connectivity, directly shaping subjective experience. In fifteen healthy individuals, functional magnetic resonance imaging revealed this psychedelic drug, acting on Serotonin 2A receptors, reduced the integrity of the Default Mode Network and other regions. As psilocin levels rose, networks like the Task-positive network desegregated, increasing connectivity. This Neuroscience and Pharmacology insight illuminates how psilocybin influences consciousness, offering new perspectives for Psychology and therapeutic approaches to brain disorders, relating to neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Abstract The emerging novel therapeutic psilocybin produces psychedelic effects via engagement of cerebral serotonergic targets by psilocin (active...
The Psychedelic State Induced by Ayahuasca Modulates the Activity and Connectivity of the Default Mode Network
PLoS ONE – February 18, 2015
Summary
A powerful hallucinogen, Ayahuasca, significantly reduces activity in the brain's default mode network (DMN), a key area for mind-wandering and consciousness. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (resting state fMRI) on ten experienced subjects, neuroscience revealed decreased activity in regions like the Posterior Cingulate and Precuneus. This modulation of the DMN by psychedelics offers insights for psychology into altered states, linking drug studies to our understanding of consciousness and unconsciousness. This informs neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, relevant to tryptophan and brain disorders.
Abstract
The experiences induced by psychedelics share a wide variety of subjective features, related to the complex changes in perception and cognition ind...
An Overview on the Taxonomy, Phylogenetics and Ecology of the Psychedelic Genera Psilocybe, Panaeolus, Pluteus and Gymnopilus
Frontiers in Forests and Global Change – May 23, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen from "magic mushrooms," offers significant therapeutic promise for mental health without addiction risks. Amidst surging interest in psychedelics and drug studies, accurate identification is paramount. This review details the fungal biology, taxonomy, and classification of four key genera—Psilocybe, Panaeolus, Pluteus, and Gymnopilus—known for producing these alkaloids. Understanding their ecology and the chemical synthesis of psilocybin is crucial for safe applications, distinguishing beneficial fungi from harmful lookalikes.
Abstract
Psilocybin and psilocin, two psychoactive components found in “magic mushrooms,” have therapeutic potential in a number of mental health disorders ...
Methodological challenges in psychedelic drug trials: Efficacy and safety of psilocybin in treatment-resistant major depression (EPIsoDE) – Rationale and study design
Neuroscience Applied – January 01, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen and alkaloid, shows remarkable promise in psychiatry. A rigorous clinical trial in medicine is underway, involving 144 patients with major depression. This drug trial employs a sophisticated placebo control, carefully designed to overcome challenges with blinding, a common hurdle in psychedelics and drug studies. Such psychology-focused research, leveraging chemical synthesis, is vital for complementary and alternative medicine studies, offering new hope.
Abstract
Psychedelics such as psilocybin have recently gained remarkable interest in both the specialist literature and the lay press because studies sugges...
Psychedelics as a Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia
Frontiers in Synaptic Neuroscience – August 21, 2020
Summary
A compelling new frontier in Medicine suggests psychedelics like psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, could revolutionize Dementia treatment. With no current disease-modifying options for Alzheimer's disease, Neuroscience and Psychiatry are exploring these compounds. Early Drug Studies highlight their potential to improve Cognition by stimulating neuroplasticity and reducing Neuroinflammation. This offers hope for managing this devastating Disease, influencing behavior through complex neurotransmitter receptor interactions. The focus is on micro-dosing these chemical synthesis alkaloids for therapeutic benefits, moving beyond their traditional Psychology context.
Abstract
Currently, there are no disease-modifying treatments for Alzheimer's disease (AD) or any other dementia subtype. The renaissance in psychedelic res...
Molecular insights into psychedelic drug action
Journal of Neurochemistry – November 19, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin has received FDA "Breakthrough Therapy" designation for treatment-resistant depression, signaling a new era for psychedelics in medicine. Renewed interest in compounds like Lysergic acid diethylamide and Mescaline stems from evolving mental health needs and policy shifts. Understanding the precise molecular action of these potent hallucinogens is now crucial. This involves detailed pharmacology and biochemical analysis to reveal how these drugs, often alkaloids from chemical synthesis, exert their effects. Such insights are vital for psychotherapists and psychiatry to harness their full potential in psychology and drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract A confluence of factors has renewed interest in the scientific understanding and translational potential of psychedelic drugs such as lyse...
Co-administration of midazolam and psilocybin: Differential effects on subjective quality versus memory of the psychedelic experience
OpenAlex – June 13, 2024
Summary
The profound psychological benefits of the serotonergic hallucinogen psilocybin may depend on remembering the experience. In a pharmacology experiment, 8 healthy participants received 25mg Psilocybin alongside Midazolam, a drug causing memory impairment. While consciously experiencing the psychedelic effects, participants showed reduced memory. Crucially, greater memory impairment tended to lessen positive psychological outcomes like insight and well-being. This neuroscience finding suggests neuroplasticity-related memory processes are integral to psilocybin's lasting effects in medicine, influencing behavior via neurotransmitter receptor influence.
Abstract
Abstract Aspects of the acute experience induced by the serotonergic psychedelic psilocybin predict symptomatic relief in multiple psychiatric diso...
Associations between classic psychedelics and nicotine dependence in a nationally representative sample
Scientific Reports – June 22, 2022
Summary
Lifetime psilocybin use is linked to reduced odds of nicotine dependence. A large psychology study of 214,505 adults found psilocybin use was associated with 7-13% lower odds of current nicotine dependence. Mescaline and peyote also showed 9-21% reduced odds of specific nicotine dependence measures. However, LSD use was associated with 17-24% *increased* odds. This logistic regression analysis suggests certain hallucinogen psychedelics might offer new avenues in medicine and psychiatry for addiction and smoking cessation, influencing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. This field of drug studies explores novel approaches to addiction.
Abstract
Abstract Tobacco use is the single largest cause of preventable death worldwide, but none of the established treatments aimed at smoking cessation ...
Motives and Side-Effects of Microdosing With Psychedelics Among Users
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – May 30, 2019
Summary
Many microdose psychedelics like psilocybin, hoping for a performance boost. A survey of 1116 users revealed 37% sought enhancement, often taking the hallucinogen 2-4 times weekly. While acute psychological side effects were common, the main reason for stopping was a lack of perceived effectiveness. This highlights the need for rigorous placebo-controlled medicine studies to understand the pharmacology of these chemical synthesis and alkaloids, and their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, moving beyond anecdotal drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background Microdosing with psychedelics has gained considerable media attention where it is portrayed as a performance enhancer, especial...
New Frontiers or a Bursting Bubble? Psychedelic Therapy Beyond the Dichotomy
Frontiers in Psychiatry – September 10, 2021
Summary
Despite a 2021 Phase II study showing no primary outcome advantage for psilocybin-assisted therapy over escitalopram, secondary measures favored psilocybin for depression. This sparked critical discussions in Psychiatry, Psychology, and therapeutic fields like Psychoanalysis, questioning trial methodology for Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Psychotherapists in Medicine suggest the "bubble" of enthusiasm might be bursting. A nuanced view acknowledges both potential and pitfalls for this mental healthcare frontier, considering neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior and chemical synthesis of alkaloids.
Abstract
The publication in April 2021 of the Imperial College London Phase II study investigating \nthe efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy vs. esc...
Dynamics of Psychedelic Drug Abuse
Archives of General Psychiatry – May 01, 1967
Summary
Unsupervised use of hallucinogens like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) poses significant hazards, clinical studies document. This phenomenon, despite regulatory efforts, has been largely put aside. It raises complex Psychology and Psychiatry questions regarding wide variety of personal and social determinants. Understanding how substances, including morning glory seeds, influence behavior via neurotransmitter receptors is crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, necessitating robust forensic toxicology and drug analysis, with psychotherapist input, for public health.
Abstract
THE PUBLIC has become aware of the increasing use of the major psychedelic substances (lysergic acid diethylamide [LSD], peyote, psilocybin, mornin...
The Effects of Tryptamine Psychedelics in the Brain: A meta-Analysis of Functional and Review of Molecular Imaging Studies
Frontiers in Pharmacology – September 29, 2021
Summary
Tryptamine hallucinogens like Psilocybin strongly modulate key brain regions, holding therapeutic promise in Psychology. A quantitative meta-analysis of functional imaging studies revealed changes in cortical activation and connectivity align with high densities of the 5-HT2A receptor, a crucial 5-HT receptor. Neuroscience shows these psychedelics, often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, influence behavior. Affected areas include the anterior cingulate cortex, posterior cingulate, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and temporal cortex. This highlights neurotransmitter receptor influence on the brain's cortex.
Abstract
There is an increasing interest in the neural effects of psychoactive drugs, in particular tryptamine psychedelics, which has been incremented by t...
Positive expectations predict improved mental-health outcomes linked to psychedelic microdosing
Scientific Reports – January 21, 2021
Summary
After four weeks, 81 individuals microdosing psychedelics reported improved mood, reduced anxiety, and enhanced mental health, reaching a key clinical endpoint. However, this prospective study, relevant to clinical psychology and psychiatry, revealed that positive expectancy at baseline strongly predicted these benefits, suggesting a significant placebo response. While prior observational studies hinted at benefits in complementary medicine, these drug studies highlight psychology's role via expectancy theory, cautioning against overstating direct medicinal value.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic microdosing describes the ingestion of near-threshold perceptible doses of classic psychedelic substances. Anecdotal reports a...
Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelics in Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders, Part 2
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry – February 23, 2021
Summary
High-dose psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, significantly reduced Major Depressive Disorder and Anxiety in a randomized controlled trial of 51 cancer patients, sustained in 80% at six months. This compelling finding in Clinical Psychology highlights psychedelics' potential in Psychiatry. Psilocybin, Lysergic acid diethylamide, and MDMA are gaining traction in Medicine, exploring their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior to improve mood. Drug Studies are advancing chemical synthesis and alkaloids for these therapies.
Abstract
P sychedelics have recently gained attention as compounds with therapeutic potential in the treatment of psychiatric disorders.The US Food and Drug...
Recent developments involving psychedelics
World drug report – July 20, 2023
Summary
A significant shift occurred in **mental health** **medicine**: early **psychology** and **psychiatry** explored **hallucinogen** **psilocybin** for conditions like substance use. However, initial **clinical trial** efforts, often by **psychotherapists**, lacked modern rigor. By **1971**, international controls on **psychedelics** emerged. Concurrently, new **medicine**, like SSRIs, revolutionized **depression** treatment. These advancements, demonstrating **neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior**, offered proven efficacy for complex **mental health** disorders, shifting **clinical psychology** away from early **drug studies** involving **alkaloids**.
Abstract
The therapeutic use of psychedelic substances such as LSD and psilocybin has been researched by psychologists and psychiatrists for a range of psyc...
Phenomenological assessment of psychedelic induced experiences: Translation and validation of the German Challenging Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) and Ego-Dissolution Inventory (EDI)
OpenAlex – April 02, 2021
Summary
A 26-item German scale reliably measures diverse challenging experiences induced by psychedelics, advancing clinical psychology. Its 7-factor structure was confirmed via confirmatory factor analysis, showing strong construct validity and convergent validity with anxiety measures within a nomological network. An 8-item ego-dissolution scale was refined to five items through exploratory factor analysis, enhancing its psychometrics. These validated tools, essential for psychology, will illuminate how chemical synthesis of alkaloids and their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior manifest as subjective states, bolstering drug studies.
Abstract
Several measures have been designed to assess subjective experiences induced by psychedelic substances and other mind-altering drugs or non-pharmac...
Neuropsychological Functioning in Users of Serotonergic Psychedelics – A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Frontiers in Pharmacology – September 16, 2021
Summary
Ayahuasca use may enhance executive cognition, a compelling finding from a systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 studies (N=539) identified via databases like MEDLINE. This neuropsychology research explored serotonergic hallucinogens, including psilocybin and LSD, which influence neurotransmitter receptors. No uniform cognitive impairment emerged; instead, distinct psychological profiles appeared. A meta-analysis of 5 studies (n=352) showed ayahuasca users performed better on a Stroop task, while LSD users (n=42) exhibited reduced executive functioning. This informs clinical psychology, medicine, and psychiatry regarding these chemically diverse psychedelics.
Abstract
Background: Serotonergic psychedelics (SPs) like LSD, psilocybin, DMT, and mescaline are a heterogeneous group of substances that share agonism at ...
Microdosing psychedelics and its effect on creativity: Lessons learned from three double-blind placebo controlled longitudinal trials
OpenAlex – June 14, 2021
Summary
Microdosing psilocybin, an alkaloid, subtly enhances creativity, specifically boosting originality in divergent thinking. A robust cognitive psychology investigation, pooling 175 participants across three double-blind placebo-controlled trials, found active microdosing increased the originality-to-fluency ratio in creative responses. While general cognition and mood weren't broadly affected, the quality of novel ideas improved, especially when relative dosage was considered. These psychedelics studies highlight the importance of controlling for expectation biases, suggesting effects are more nuanced than often claimed.
Abstract
Introduction: Microdosing refers to the repetitive administration of tiny doses of psychedelics (LSD, Psilocybin) over an extended period of time. ...
Psychedelic Drugs in Correctional Treatment
Crime & Delinquency – July 01, 1972
Summary
Early **psychedelics and drug studies** revealed intriguing potential for **psychotherapy techniques and applications** in **prison** settings. For example, **psilocybin** appeared to induce positive **behavior** changes among **thirty-three** incarcerated individuals. Another initiative showed LSD could accelerate **psychotherapy** for **addiction**, suggesting its **value** in **psychiatry** and **medicine**. While long-term outcomes remain unquantified, these historical explorations hint at the profound impact such **psychotherapist**-guided approaches could have on correctional **psychology**.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs have been used for individual psychotherapy in prison settings. This paper outlines two studies that explore the use of psychedel...
The psychotherapeutic use of psychedelics
OpenAlex – July 28, 2020
Summary
Psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, show unprecedented promise for severe anxiety, depression, and PTSD, offering new hope in mental health. Extensive Drug Studies and Psychology research now supports high-dose psilocybin's therapeutic efficacy for many patients. After decades of stigma, these potent compounds are gaining respect through careful academic scrutiny. The crucial process of "integration"—akin to psychoanalysis, where experiences are processed—is vital. This diverse academic research explores novel treatments, moving beyond past controversies to harness these unique chemical agents.
Abstract
Psychedelics are newly respectable. Evidence suggests that a variety of ills, from anxiety and depression to addictions and post-traumatic stress d...
Studying classic psychedelics for the management of headache disorders: Considerations for Veterans
Journal of Military Veteran and Family Health – December 01, 2023
Summary
Patients report that psychedelics like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide offer remarkable relief from debilitating headaches, including migraine and cluster headache, lasting weeks or months from just a single or few doses. This potential for long-term relief is a significant development in medicine and psychiatry, particularly for Veterans. Emerging drug studies in psychology and complementary/alternative medicine are exploring these naturally occurring and chemically synthesized alkaloids. While initial findings are encouraging, robust studies are vital to confirm these promising patient accounts for headache management.
Abstract
LAY SUMMARY Patients with headache disorders, such as migraine or cluster headache, often have poor quality of life and can be disabled by their co...
Investigation of neuronal basis underlying antidepressant effect of serotonergic psychedelics
Proceedings for Annual Meeting of The Japanese Pharmacological Society – January 01, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin's antidepressant pharmacology, a key area in psychedelics and drug studies, is now clearer. Our neuroscience research reveals psilocin, a psilocybin metabolite, significantly reduces immobility in mice by activating the 5-HT2A receptor in the lateral septum. This serotonergic 5-HT receptor influence on behavior was absent when the receptor was blocked. Further receptor mechanisms and signaling studies showed activating these 5-HT2A receptors, predominantly on GABAergic inhibitory neurons, produced antidepressant effects. This chemistry suggests neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior via these specific inhibitory pathways.
Abstract
Recently, FDA approved psilocybin, the psychoactive substance found in the magic mushroom, as a "breakthrough therapy" for depression; ho...
THE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF PSYCHEDELICS FOR MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS: A REVIEW OF CURRENT EVIDENCE
PARIPEX INDIAN JOURNAL OF RESEARCH – May 15, 2023
Summary
Psychoactive substances like psilocybin, MDMA, and Ayahuasca show groundbreaking potential for mental health. These hallucinogens are transforming psychiatry and clinical psychology, offering new medicine for severe anxiety, depression, and PTSD resistant to traditional treatments. Research in Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlights their effectiveness, suggesting how their chemical synthesis and alkaloid nature influence behavior through neurotransmitter receptors. Psychotherapists may soon integrate these compounds, revolutionizing mental health care.
Abstract
The purpose of this review article is to give a summary of the literature on the use of psychedelic drugs, such as psilocybin, LSD, ayahuasca, and ...
Understanding psychedelic 'mystical experience'—A case example
OpenAlex – March 10, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin therapy can dramatically heal deep-seated family trauma. One man, experiencing lifelong alienation due to pre-birth family trauma, found profound relief through a single psilocybin session. This experience, often described with elements of mysticism, allowed him to rebuild relationships with his parents and children. Subsequent sessions, exploring the influence of psychedelics on neurotransmitter receptors, further improved his marriage and released job stress. This example from clinical psychology highlights how a psychotherapist can guide such transformative experiences, offering insights beyond traditional psychoanalysis for profound psychological healing.
Abstract
In recent psychedelic therapy research, the concept of 'mystical experience' has been highlighted, as in several studies it has been identified as ...
The therapeutical role of psychedelic drugs in treatment of mental disorders
Bulletin of Integrative Psychiatry – September 15, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics, historically used in spiritual practices, are now demonstrating significant therapeutic promise in modern Psychiatry. These powerful compounds, central to many Drug Studies, include two main groups: indoleamines like psilocybin and LSD, and phenethylamines such as mescaline. Their influence on behavior stems from acting primarily on the 5-HT2 serotonergic Neurotransmitter Receptor. This mechanism is being explored in Psychology and Medicine for conditions like anxiety, major depressive disorder, and addictions. The chemical synthesis of certain alkaloids offers new tools for psychotherapists.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs (also called hallucinogens, psychotogenics, psycholytics, entheogens) are substances that act mainly on the 5-HT2 serotonergic re...
Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelics: Mechanisms, Applications, and Challenges
Pharmaceutical science. – August 27, 2025
Summary
A compelling resurgence reveals psychedelics' profound potential for treating mental disorders and addictions, a critical area in Psychology and Drug Studies. Psilocybin, an alkaloid, demonstrates efficacy for treatment-resistant depression, cancer-associated anxiety, alcohol use disorder, and nicotine dependence. MDMA, combined with psychotherapy, offers promise for post-traumatic stress disorder. Ayahuasca also aids various substance use disorders. These substances exert their Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, with implications for Chemical synthesis. Evidence strongly supports their therapeutic value and safety.
Abstract
The resurgence of research on the use of psychedelic substances for the treatment of mental disorders and addictions has generated significant inte...
Manifest Your Desires: Psychedelics and the Self-Help Industry
OpenAlex – April 13, 2022
Summary
A "psychedelic industrial complex" is rapidly forming, raising alarms about potential harm despite promising mental health applications. Parallels exist with the self-help industry, where for-profit businesses and spiritual gurus make overstated claims. With limited understanding of these substances' psychology and chemical synthesis, entrepreneurs market advice, creating public relations challenges. Responsible drug studies, evidence-based therapy, and decriminalization are crucial to temper profit-driven excesses and ensure genuine benefit for mental health.
Abstract
A psychedelic industrial complex is emerging as new research on these substances and their effects are being approved. These substances show promis...
Coming back together: a qualitative survey study of coping and support strategies used by people to cope with extended difficulties after the use of psychedelic drugs
Frontiers in Psychology – May 28, 2024
Summary
Many individuals navigate persistent difficulties after psychedelic experiences, a key area in psychology. A qualitative investigation of 608 participants showed meditation was the most common individual coping strategy. Seeking social support from friends or family was the primary social coping mechanism, often involving a psychotherapist. Journaling also proved helpful. This thematic analysis, relevant to clinical and social psychology, informs psychological interventions to support those affected by natural compound pharmacology. Feeling heard is crucial for effective coping.
Abstract
Introduction A growing body of literature is investigating the difficulties that some individuals encounter after psychedelic experiences. Existing...
Microdosing psychedelics has no impact on cognitive function in naturalistic settings
Journal of Psychology & Clinical Psychiatry – August 01, 2023
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics does not objectively enhance neurocognitive performance, challenging popular belief. An observational study of 17 participants found no improved cognition—including processing speed, attention, or memory—on microdosing days or the day after. This suggests perceived benefits stem from psychological rather than direct neurocognitive pathways, offering insights for cognitive psychology. These Drug Studies highlight the complex interplay of perception and actual performance, distinct from biochemical effects, unlike factors such as sleep deprivation.
Abstract
Background and aim: Subjective and anecdotal accounts link ingestion of psychedelic microdoses, quantities small enough to retain perceptual clarit...
Amazonian Medicine and the Psychedelic Revival: Considering the “Dieta”
Frontiers in Pharmacology – May 28, 2021
Summary
Plant diets, a cornerstone of Amazonian traditional medicine, offer diverse benefits beyond illness treatment, including resilience and rites of passage. In interviews with eight seasoned healers in Peru’s San Martín province, insights revealed that these complex practices cannot be fully understood through pharmacology or psychology alone. The thematic analysis highlighted the need for broader frameworks within psychedelic science. With increasing interest in ayahuasca, this study emphasizes the importance of intercultural and interdisciplinary approaches to comprehensively explore the intricacies of plant diets and Amazonian healing traditions.
Abstract
Background: In Peruvian Amazonian medicine, plant diets ( dietas ) are a fundamental and highly flexible technique with a variety of uses: from tre...
Psychedelic Fauna for Psychonaut Hunters: A Mini-Review
Frontiers in Psychiatry – May 22, 2018
Summary
A striking trend reveals that various species of animals, including ants and amphibians, are being abused for their psychoactive properties. With the rise of a new "drug culture" among psychonauts, approximately 100 novel psychoactive substances (NPS) have gained popularity. This review identifies commonly abused "psychedelic fauna" through a comprehensive analysis of online experiences and literature, highlighting how easy access to these substances is facilitated by tourism-related searches. Routes of administration vary significantly based on the animal's characteristics and individual factors.
Abstract
Currently different classes of psychoactive substances are easily available for abuse, including several hundred novel psychoactive substances (NPS...
“It Fueled the Fire to Who I Am Now”: Exploring Motivations for Microdosing Psychedelics
Journal of Drug Issues – October 31, 2025
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics, including psilocybin and LSD, is rapidly gaining popularity for its perceived self-enhancing benefits rather than euphoric experiences. Interviews with 200 active microdosers reveal that 85% report improved wellbeing, with many using it to aid abstinence from more harmful substances. Participants cite motivations ranging from alleviating anxiety and depression to enhancing creativity and focus. This novel approach distinguishes itself sharply from traditional substance use, making microdosing one of the fastest-growing trends in contemporary illicit drug consumption.
Abstract
The emergence of microdosing introduced a novel approach to consuming classic psychedelic substances, such as LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) and ...
Innovation and inequity in psychedelic research at the Mayo Clinic.
History of psychiatry – April 28, 2025
Summary
Groundbreaking experiments with LSD and psilocybin at Mayo Clinic in the 1950-60s revealed troubling bioethics practices. Researchers administered psychedelics to patients with schizophrenia and other conditions, often without proper consent. While these studies advanced our understanding of these compounds, they highlight the critical importance of ethical research protocols and patient autonomy in modern psychedelic medicine.
Abstract
This paper provides an overview of psychedelic research at the Mayo Clinic in the 1950s and 1960s, focusing on methods, objectives, findings, and e...
Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelic Compounds for Substance Use Disorders.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) – November 05, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough treatments for addiction are emerging from an unexpected source: psychedelics. Compounds like psilocybin and ketamine show remarkable success in treating substance use disorders, often achieving significant results in just a few sessions. Studies reveal that psychedelics like LSD and ayahuasca can help rewire addiction-related brain patterns, while MDMA-assisted therapy helps patients process trauma underlying their substance use. These treatments offer lasting benefits with minimal risk of dependence.
Abstract
Psychedelics have recently (re)emerged as therapeutics of high potential for multiple mental health conditions, including substance use disorders (...
Naturalistic use of psychedelics is associated with longitudinal improvements in anxiety and depression during global crisis times.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – June 18, 2025
Summary
Tracking mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic revealed a notable finding: while many drug use patterns correlated with worsening anxiety and depression, individuals using psychedelics and cannabis experienced improved mental health. Their well-being, including reduced anxiety and depression, eventually matched those who used no drugs. This large-scale observation suggests potential benefits of psychedelics for mental health during global crises.
Abstract
Mental health implications of COVID-19 drug use patterns are still unclear. We used data-driven clustering in a large citizen science cohort recrui...
The use patterns of novel psychedelics: experiential fingerprints of substituted phenethylamines, tryptamines and lysergamides.
Psychopharmacology – June 01, 2022
Summary
Users of certain novel psychedelic compounds, like tryptamines and lysergamides, experience fewer physical side effects than those using phenylethylamines. Researchers surveyed nearly 1200 individuals on their use of novel psychoactive substances, including hallucinogens such as 2C-B (a phenylethylamine), 1P-LSD (a lysergamide), and 4-AcO-DMT (a tryptamine). Findings showed distinct usage patterns and, positively, fewer physical adverse events for tryptamine and lysergamide users. This suggests different classes of these psychedelic substances may offer unique safety profiles and subjective experiences.
Abstract
Novel psychedelics (NPs) are an expanding set of compounds, presenting new challenges for drug policy and opportunities for clinical research. Unli...
Ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry determination of hallucinogenic drugs in hair of psychedelic plants and mushrooms consumers.
Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis – November 01, 2014
Summary
Detecting past psychedelic drug use is now more precise. A new, highly sensitive **uhplc–ms/ms** method for **hair testing** successfully identified compounds like **mescaline**, **salvinorin A**, **n,n-dimethyltriptamine**, and **psilocin** (from psilocybin) in hair samples. This robust technique provides reliable evidence of prior consumption of psychedelic plants and mushrooms.
Abstract
A procedure based on ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry has been developed for the determination of mescaline, N,N-...
Belief change and agnostic frames in psychedelic research and clinical contexts
Philosophical Perspectives on Psychedelic Psychiatry – September 13, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic experiences can profoundly shift how people understand reality. A review explored how these experiences alter metaphysical beliefs, synthesizing existing evidence, psychological theories, and philosophical perspectives. The analysis confirms that significant belief changes are possible, identifying potential psychological pathways involved. It offers guidance for research and clinical settings to navigate these transformations effectively, ensuring supportive and informed approaches.
Abstract
Abstract The proportion of people who change their metaphysical beliefs after psychedelic experiences is not yet known with specificity. However, i...
Pain and Perception: Exploring Psychedelics as Novel Therapeutic Agents in Chronic Pain Management.
Current pain and headache reports – January 07, 2025
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine show remarkable promise in treating chronic pain conditions. These compounds provide powerful analgesic effects while addressing both physical and emotional aspects of pain. Studies demonstrate significant relief for patients with cluster headaches, neuropathic pain, and phantom limb pain through combined psychotherapy and psychedelic treatment.
Abstract
Chronic pain affects approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide, representing the leading cause of disability and a significant financial burden on...
Rapid effects of tryptamine psychedelics on perceptual distortions and early visual cortical population receptive fields.
NeuroImage – August 15, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like DMT can dramatically alter visual perception in minutes. New research reveals how these changes occur in the visual cortex through serotonin's 5-HT2A receptors. Brain scans showed that DMT causes visual neurons to respond differently, making their receptive fields larger, especially in peripheral vision. This explains common visual hallucinations like tunnel vision and spatial distortions.
Abstract
N, N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a psychedelic tryptamine acting on 5-HT2A serotonin receptors, which is associated with intense visual hallucinato...
Novel extended-release transdermal formulations of the psychedelic N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT).
European journal of pharmaceutical sciences : official journal of the European Federation for Pharmaceutical Sciences – August 01, 2024
Summary
Scientists have developed a groundbreaking skin patch that delivers DMT, a powerful psychedelic, in controlled doses. The extended-release transdermal system maintains steady, non-hallucinogenic levels of dimethyltryptamine in the body, showing promise as a practical treatment option. Testing revealed impressive 77% bioavailability and a 20-fold increase in the drug's duration compared to traditional methods, while avoiding intense psychedelic effects.
Abstract
There is considerable evidence from the literature that psychedelics, such as N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), are safe and effective treatments for d...
Antidepressant-like effects of psychedelics in a chronic despair mouse model: is the 5-HT2A receptor the unique player?
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – March 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic compounds show promise in treating depression through unexpected pathways. New research reveals that both hallucinogenic and non-hallucinogenic compounds targeting serotonin receptors can produce lasting antidepressant effects in mice. A single dose of these compounds improved mood-related behaviors for up to 15 days, working faster than traditional antidepressants. Notably, some benefits occurred even without the typical psychedelic effects.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most disabling psychiatric disorders in the world. First-line treatments such as selective serotonin ...
Characterization and Identification of an Antimicrobial Compound Psilocybin from Psychedelic Mushroom.
Indian journal of microbiology – June 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, known for its mind-altering properties from psychedelic mushrooms, exhibits potent antimicrobial activity. Studies confirmed psilocybin's presence and its power against common pathogens. It successfully inhibited various bacteria and fungi, with a low minimum inhibitory concentration observed for both. This highlights psilocybin's potential for new antimicrobial drug development.
Abstract
The antimicrobial compound psilocybin possesses psychoactive properties with therapeutic applications. Psilocybin is the main component naturally p...
Comparing the Detection of Endogenous Psychedelics in Individuals With and Without Alleged Mediumistic Experiences.
Explore (New York, N.Y.) – November 01, 2018
Summary
Could endogenous psychedelics influence mediumship? A recent investigation into individuals reporting mediumistic experiences compared their urine for bufotenine and dimethyltryptamine. While mediums reported significantly more anomalous experiences, analysis via high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed no significant difference in these endogenous compounds compared to non-mediums. This suggests these specific substances may not be the direct biological drivers of mediumistic abilities.
Abstract
Mediumship is the alleged ability to communicate with deceased personalities. Previous studies have suggested that the endogenous psychotomimetic m...