1662 results for "LSD"
DARK Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: NBOMes
ACS Chemical Neuroscience – October 28, 2019
Summary
Synthetic psychedelics known as NBOMes, derived from the natural alkaloid mescaline through chemical synthesis, emerged in 2010. While their recreational use led to acute toxicity and deaths, prompting Schedule I classification in 2013, these compounds also offer significant value. In neuroscience, specific NBOMes like [¹¹C]Cimbi-36 are crucial biochemical tools for brain imaging, enabling detailed study of serotonin 2A receptors. This dual nature highlights their impact on both public health and our understanding of brain function in cognitive science and psychology.
Abstract
N-Benzylphenethylamines, commonly known as NBOMes, are synthetic psychedelic compounds derived from the phenethylamine class of psychedelics (2C-X ...
Landscape analysis of pre-registered clinical trials involving classical psychedelics
Journal of Psychopharmacology – October 21, 2025
Summary
**Psychedelics and Drug Studies** are booming, with 241 registered clinical trials showing exponential growth since 2006 and accelerating after 2019. Two-thirds are ongoing or planned. Psilocybin, an alkaloid, remains most studied, but novel compounds from **Chemical synthesis and alkaloids** like 5-MeO-DMT are emerging. While universities still lead, industry involvement is rising. Consistent reporting of psychotherapeutic components is crucial for comparing outcomes, underscoring the meticulous standards of **Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis** needed for these potent substances.
Abstract
Psychedelic clinical research is expanding rapidly. This review analyses the state and trends in psychedelic clinical trial registrations. A system...
Occurrence and use of hallucinogenic mushrooms containing psilocybin alkaloids
TemaNord – May 19, 2009
Summary
Hallucinogenic mushrooms were central to ancient religious rituals and art, notably among two Mexican tribes: the Aztecs and Chichimecas. Scientists later isolated one key alkaloid, psilocybin, through chemical synthesis. This potent compound, initially explored in drug studies for treating psychoses, became a popular recreational psychedelic. Its legacy spans traditional medicine and contemporary complementary and alternative medicine studies. Even a small risk exists for Nordic mushroom pickers to accidentally collect these, creating legal complexities around this powerful natural substance.
Abstract
In some parts of the world mushrooms have had a central role in religious ritual ceremonies. Ethnomycological studies among the Indian tribes of Me...
Role of psilocybin in the treatment of depression
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – October 27, 2016
Summary
Contrary to common perception, extensive population-based studies reveal psilocybin, a classic hallucinogen like lysergic acid diethylamide, does not cause serious health problems or dependence, even as a recreational drug. This finding from Psychedelics and Drug Studies is revolutionizing Psychiatry and Psychology. Psilocybin, a naturally occurring alkaloid with novel neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, is now rigorously explored in Medicine for mood and anxiety disorders. Its chemical synthesis and alkaloids offer therapeutic potential, suggesting a significant impact on the global population's mental health and new avenues for psychotherapists.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring alkaloid, pharmacologically similar to the classic hallucinogen lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). Although prim...
The Use of Psilocybin in the Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders with Attention to Relative Safety Profile: A Systematic Review
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – February 28, 2022
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin, a potent alkaloid, shows remarkable promise in psychiatry. A review of 76 articles highlights its efficacy in significantly reducing anxiety and depression symptoms, a major burden on population health. This psychedelic medicine, alongside MDMA, causes no reported adverse effects or deaths, offering a compelling alternative in drug studies for psychological well-being. Its re-emergence signals a "Psychedelic Renaissance," broadening the scope of complementary medicine. The potential for such compounds, naturally derived, to alleviate depression is a significant development for the population.
Abstract
There has been a reemergence of research into the use of substances such as LSD, MDMA, and psilocybin for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. T...
Psychedelic drugs—a new era in psychiatry?
Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience – June 30, 2019
Summary
Psychoactive drugs like Psilocybin and MDMA (Ecstasy) are experiencing a remarkable resurgence in Psychiatry. Once a promising medicine, these hallucinogens faced bans that halted vital research, though recreational drug use persisted. Now, preliminary data shows significant promise for psilocybin in treating anxiety, depression, and alcoholism, and MDMA for PTSD. Regulatory bodies have approved MDMA for a Phase 3 PTSD trial and psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression, signaling a new era for these psychedelics in medicine and psychology. This renaissance in Drug Studies could revolutionize mental health.
Abstract
This article covers the renaissance of classical psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin and LSD plus 3,4-methylene dioxymethamphetamine (MDMA-ecstasy...
Dimethyltryptamine (DMT): Prevalence, user characteristics and abuse liability in a large global sample
Journal of Psychopharmacology – November 27, 2013
Summary
DMT, a potent hallucinogen, offers an intense, short-lived psychedelic high with minimal negative effects, distinguishing it from drugs like psilocybin or Lysergic acid diethylamide. A survey of 22,289 individuals revealed 8.9% lifetime use. Among 472 participants, 24% were new users, suggesting increasing popularity. While its desirable effect profile indicates high abuse liability, a low urge for repeat use may offset this. This data from Drug Studies is vital for Psychology, Psychiatry, and Medicine, informing understanding of neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior and Forensic Toxicology.
Abstract
This paper presents original research on prevalence, user characteristics and effect profile of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a potent hallucinogen...
Lifetime use of MDMA/ecstasy and psilocybin is associated with reduced odds of major depressive episodes
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2022
Summary
Lifetime MDMA/Ecstasy use is associated with 16% lower odds of experiencing a major depressive episode. An analysis of 213,437 US adults found MDMA, or Ecstasy, linked to 16-18% lower odds of these episodes. The hallucinogen Psilocybin, a classic psychedelic, correlated with 10-13% lower odds. These findings offer intriguing insights for Psychiatry and Medicine, suggesting potential avenues for Psychology in addressing major depressive episodes, unlike other substances examined.
Abstract
Background: Depression is a major mental health issue worldwide, with high rates of chronicity and non-recovery associated with the condition. Exis...
Altered states: psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression
The Lancet Psychiatry – May 17, 2016
Summary
A pilot in Psychiatry suggests Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, offers hope for Treatment-resistant depression. In a feasibility study with 12 patients, a regimen combining synthesized psilocybin with psychological support reduced depression scores by around 10 points on the Hamilton Depression Scale after one week. This Medicine, documented in medical literature and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, showed promising safety and preliminary efficacy, with about half the participants still experiencing benefits at three months. This offers hope for the 20% of patients with depression unresponsive to conventional treatments.
Abstract
"Alice remained looking thoughtfully at the mushroom for a minute, trying to make out which were the two sides of it; and as it was perfectly round...
A new behavior change program using psilocybin.
Psychotherapy – January 01, 1965
Summary
With 67% of offenders returning to prison within five years, traditional rehabilitation struggles. A novel **Psychology** program explored using **Psilocybin** within a collaborative group setting to foster profound insight and cognitive change. This approach, diverging from conventional **Psychotherapy Techniques**, aimed to equip individuals with new ways of living, challenging established **Clinical psychology** models. Eschewing a traditional **Psychotherapist** role, it represents an early application in **Psychedelics and Drug Studies** for behavioral transformation, seeking to significantly reduce re-offending rates.
Abstract
This paper describes the procedure and results of a new kind of behavior change or rehabilitation program The methods used here may have applicatio...
Psilocybin use is associated with lowered odds of crime arrests in US adults: A replication and extension
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin use is linked to significantly lowered odds of arrest. National demography data from 211,549 individuals showed lifetime psilocybin use associated with reduced odds for 7 of 11 past-year arrest types (odds ratios 0.30-0.73). This offers criminology a new perspective on reducing recidivism within prison populations. Mescaline also reduced odds for drug possession. These psychology and psychedelics and drug studies findings suggest avenues for medicine.
Abstract
Background: The United States boasts the largest prison population in the world, conferring significant direct and indirect costs (e.g. lost wages ...
Psychedelics as Medicines: An Emerging New Paradigm
Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics – November 04, 2016
Summary
Serotonergic psychedelics, including psilocybin, are emerging as powerful tools in medicine. These hallucinogens show preliminary efficacy against anxiety, addiction, and psychiatric depression, influencing neurotransmitter receptors like 5-HT2A. Neuroscience suggests this mechanism, relevant to psychiatry and psychology, can "reset" brain networks, potentially impacting brain disorders linked to serotonin pathways (derived from tryptophan). Beyond mental health, drug studies reveal their promise against inflammatory diseases. This unique influence on behavior offers new hope for debilitating conditions, opening novel avenues in medicine.
Abstract
Scientific interest in serotonergic psychedelics (e.g., psilocybin and LSD; 5‐HT 2A receptor agonists) has dramatically increased within the last d...
Transformative experience and social connectedness mediate the mood-enhancing effects of psychedelic use in naturalistic settings
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences – January 21, 2020
Summary
Psychedelic substances, whose effects are explored in Drug Studies and understood via biochemical analysis, significantly boost positive mood and social connectedness in naturalistic settings. Over 1,200 participants revealed profound psychological shifts. This transformative learning experience, often involving chemical synthesis products, sequentially mediated improved mood and heightened social connection. These insights from social and cognitive psychology provide robust evidence for psychedelics' positive affective consequences, relevant for psychotherapists.
Abstract
Past research suggests that use of psychedelic substances such as LSD or psilocybin may have positive effects on mood and feelings of social connec...
Blinding and expectancy confounds in psychedelic randomized controlled trials
Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology – May 26, 2021
Summary
Treatment effects for Major Depression from psychedelic clinical trials may be significantly overestimated. A systematic review of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) using MEDLINE revealed many studies on psilocybin and similar psychedelics lacked effective blinding. Expectancy theory suggests participants often discern if they receive the active medicine or a placebo, influencing reported outcomes. This de-blinding means large effect sizes in clinical psychology and psychiatry for these alternative medicine treatments might be inflated. Future drug studies must improve blinding to accurately assess therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Introduction: There is increasing interest in the potential for psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin, LSD and ketamine to treat several mental heal...
Case Report: Magic Mushroom (Psilocybe Cubensis) Intoxication
Archives of The Medicine and Case Reports – October 13, 2021
Summary
Consuming Psilocybe mushrooms, containing the hallucinogen Psilocybin, can induce severe psychological and life-threatening physical distress. A single case details a 22-year-old male experiencing disorientation, auditory hallucinations, and bizarre movements, necessitating psychiatric care. This acute event, similar to Mescaline intoxication, also caused life-threatening kidney injury. Such incidents underscore critical safety concerns in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, often overlooked amidst discussions of Pain Management or the Placebo Effect. This aspect of Psychology and Psychiatry highlights the dark side of substances that can lead to experiences sometimes interpreted as paranormal.
Abstract
Introduction. Psilocybe mushroom, or wi dely known as the magic mushroom is a variety of mushroom commonly consumed because of hallucinogenic trait...
Psilocybin as a Novel Pharmacotherapy for Treatment-Refractory Anorexia Nervosa
OBM Neurobiology – June 24, 2021
Summary
Anorexia nervosa, a severe psychiatry challenge, sees current psychological intervention remission rates below 50%. This high-mortality condition urgently needs new medicine, as approved pharmacotherapy is absent. Emerging Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggest hallucinogens like psilocybin offer a novel approach. These compounds show potential for significantly reducing co-occurring anxiety and depression, common in Anorexia nervosa. Influencing Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, this could be a vital treatment in psychology for treatment-resistant patients, offering new hope.
Abstract
Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is a major health problem with one of the highest mortalities and treatment costs of any psychiatric condition. Cognitive beh...
Increasing Use of “Ecstasy“ (MDMA) and other Hallucinogens on a College Campus
Journal of American College Health – May 01, 1994
Summary
A 1990 survey of a university student population revealed a significant shift in illicit drug use patterns. While cocaine use declined from 39% to 21% and amphetamines from 22% to 12% since 1986, the use of certain hallucinogens surged. Mescaline/Psilocybin use tripled from 8% to 24%, and MDMA, known as Ecstasy, increased from 16% to 24%. Lysergic acid diethylamide use remained stable. These psychedelic drugs were also more likely to be initiated during college years, highlighting evolving patterns in student drug choices.
Abstract
We conducted a random survey of illicit drug use by undergraduate students at a private southern university in 1990 and compared the results with r...
What Geometric Visual Hallucinations Tell Us about the Visual Cortex
Neural Computation – March 01, 2002
Summary
Geometric visual hallucinations, like the tunnels and spirals reported after taking psychedelics such as psilocybin or during sleep, are not random. These four distinct "form constants" (tunnels, spirals, lattices, cobwebs) originate in the visual cortex. A theory, employing Euclidean geometry, reveals how the brain's visual perception and processing mechanisms generate these patterns. Symmetries within the visual cortex's neural dynamics create activity patterns that, when transformed to the visual field, precisely match the observed geometric forms, illuminating brain function and hallucinogen effects.
Abstract
Many observers see geometric visual hallucinations after taking hallucinogens such as LSD, cannabis, mescaline or psilocybin; on viewing bright fli...
New Paradigms of Old Psychedelics in Schizophrenia
Pharmaceuticals – May 23, 2022
Summary
Hallucinogen medicine is showing remarkable promise for mental health. Recent Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveal that compounds like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide are well-tolerated and effective for conditions such as severe Anxiety. Neuroscience indicates these substances, including Mescaline, primarily activate the Serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, influencing brain connectivity. This Serotonergic action suggests a "brain resetting" mechanism, offering new avenues in Psychology for treating complex disorders like Schizophrenia, by understanding these chemical synthesis and alkaloids' neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Psychedelics such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin (magic mushrooms), and mescaline exhibit intense effects on the human brain and b...
Legal highs: staying on top of the flood of novel psychoactive substances
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – January 26, 2015
Summary
A startling 81 novel psychoactive substances were identified in 2013 alone, posing a significant challenge for Medicine and Psychiatry. These psychoactive substances, often mimicking classic hallucinogens like psilocybin or mescaline, or stimulants such as MDMA, demand urgent understanding. Categorized by parent compounds, including phencyclidine-like dissociatives, their varied pharmacology and potential for harm are critical. Understanding their Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior is vital for Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, as Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis strive to keep pace.
Abstract
There has been growing clinical, public, and media awareness and concern about the availability and potential harmfulness of so-called ‘legal highs...
Lifetime experience with (classic) psychedelics predicts pro-environmental behavior through an increase in nature relatedness
Journal of Psychopharmacology – June 20, 2017
Summary
Experience with classic hallucinogens like psilocybin and mescaline strongly predicts pro-environmental behavior, a compelling Psychology finding from a 1,487-person general population study. This effect, relevant to social psychology, is explained by a deeper self-identification with nature, independent of Big Five personality traits such as conscientiousness or openness to experience. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlight how neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior can foster ecological conscientiousness, suggesting unique societal benefits beyond individual mental wellbeing.
Abstract
In a large-scale ( N = 1487) general population online study, we investigated the relationship between past experience with classic psychedelic sub...
Psychedelic-Assisted Group Therapy: A Systematic Review
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – March 15, 2019
Summary
While individual psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy modalities receive much attention, a new review explores the overlooked history of group psychotherapy. Classic hallucinogens like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide, substances derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, were often integrated into group psychotherapy. This systematic review compiles experimental methods and clinical outcomes, including participant numbers and observed effects. Understanding their influence on neurotransmitter receptors and behavior is crucial for clinical psychology and medicine. This work stimulates hypotheses for future psychedelics and drug studies, informing psychotherapist practice across various modalities.
Abstract
Contemporary research with classic psychedelic drugs (e.g., lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin) is indebted to the twentieth-century r...
Case report: Prolonged amelioration of mild red-green color vision deficiency following psilocybin mushroom use
Drug Science Policy and Law – January 01, 2023
Summary
A single 5-gram dose of psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, dramatically improved red-green color vision in one individual. Partial improvement, assessed via Ishihara tests, peaked at 8 days and persisted for at least 16 days, despite color blindness being genetic. This intriguing finding for Medicine and Psychology suggests new directions for Psychiatry and Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Understanding these effects requires biochemical analysis of such alkaloids, whether from chemical synthesis or natural sources, to gauge their impact on perception and inform generalizability.
Abstract
Background Recent survey data indicate that some people report long-term improvement in color vision deficiency (CVD), also known as color blindnes...
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...
Serotonergic hallucinogens as translational models relevant to schizophrenia
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – August 13, 2013
Summary
Compelling evidence links serotonergic hallucinogens like psilocybin, mescaline, and lysergic acid diethylamide to temporary psychosis, mimicking schizophrenia symptoms. These psychedelics influence behavior by targeting the serotonin 5-HT2A neurotransmitter receptor. This neurochemical interaction provides crucial insights for Psychology and Neuroscience, particularly within Drug Studies. Understanding how these substances induce a 'model psychosis' through specific receptor influence, revealed by biochemical analysis, helps unravel schizophrenia's pathogenesis. This knowledge is vital for developing novel therapeutic approaches.
Abstract
Abstract One of the oldest models of schizophrenia is based on the effects of serotonergic hallucinogens such as mescaline, psilocybin, and (+)-lys...
Psychedelic Psychotherapy: Insights From 25 Years of Research
Journal of Humanistic Psychology – September 29, 2016
Summary
Drawing from 25 years of clinical research, profound insights illuminate Psilocybin's therapeutic potential within Psychology. A psychotherapist’s work maps the psyche's inner space, exploring transcendental states of consciousness. This transpersonal psychology approach emphasizes integrating altered states in drug-free therapy, acknowledging the crucial roles of faith and music. Understanding neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior and the chemical synthesis of alkaloids is vital. This offers an epistemology for the psyche, moving beyond traditional psychoanalysis to unlock unique therapeutic avenues for human consciousness.
Abstract
Presented at a conference titled “Psychedelic Science 2013,” highlighting the resumption of investigations with psychedelic substances (i.e., psilo...
Extraordinary Experiences during Cross-Modal Perception
Perceptual and Motor Skills – December 01, 1976
Summary
Compellingly, 33% of individuals reported psychedelic-like sensations when beer taste harmonized with rhythmic sound. Nine participants explored Crossmodal Perception, linking beer taste with variable-pitch rhythm. Audiology identified frequencies for this taste-sound Harmony. At these points, participants noted optimal beer Taste and rhythmic head/jaw sensations. Three described experiences akin to Mescaline or Psilocybin, informing Cognitive psychology, Psychedelics and Drug Studies, Mental Health and Psychiatry communication, Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies.
Abstract
9 Ss were requested to perceive simultaneously the taste of beer and a rhythmic sound, the pitch of which could be varied. The frequencies at which...
Values and Beliefs of Psychedelic Drug Users: A Cross-Cultural Study
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – June 01, 2006
Summary
Individuals who use hallucinogens like psilocybin demonstrate a distinct psychological profile, scoring higher on mystical beliefs, spirituality, and concern for others, while valuing financial prosperity less. This pattern emerged from a psychology study of 183 people, including 88 psychedelic users, 29 non-psychedelic illegal drug users, and 66 social drinkers, and held true across cultures. Furthermore, both groups using illegal drugs exhibited greater empathy than social drinkers. This suggests unique enduring psychological characteristics, though pre-existing traits of users may contribute to these associations with psychedelics.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs such as LSD and psilocybin are often claimed to be capable of inducing life-changing experiences described as mystical or transce...
Effects of Chemical Stimulation of Electrically-Induced Phosphenes on their Bandwidth, Shape, Number and Intensity
Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery – January 01, 1963
Summary
Combining electrical brain stimulation with psychedelics like psilocybin profoundly alters perception. In one subject, this stimulation created a great number of new visual patterns, called phosphenes. These drug-induced phosphenes exhibited significantly increased intensity and broader bandwidth compared to two baseline patterns. This work, at the intersection of neuroscience and biomedical engineering, explores how chemical stimulation influences visual experiences. It offers insights for computer science models of perception and the biophysics of brain activity, advancing psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
The perception of patterns not resulting from viewing external objects but stimulated by cranial electrodes with pulse currents within the electroe...
Breakdown or Breakthrough? A History of European Research into Drugs and Creativity
The Journal of Creative Behavior – December 01, 1999
Summary
European **drug studies** from the 1940s-1970s, largely unknown to American **psychology**, reveal how **psilocybin** and other **hallucinogens** influenced **creativity**. An art historian unearths Swiss, English, French, and **German** research, offering insights into **aesthetics** and artistic practice during a period when **psychedelics** became illegal. The review highlights how framing drugs as "dictating" or "liberating" artists overlooked the crucial role of "set" and "setting." Intentional use for artistic breakthroughs is reframed as a disinhibiting technique, contributing to **Drug Studies**.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Language barriers have largely prevented American scholars from learning about European studies concerning drugs and creativity. An art hi...
People of color in North America report improvements in racial trauma and mental health symptoms following psychedelic experiences
Drugs Education Prevention and Policy – December 10, 2020
Summary
A single psychedelic experience, often involving psilocybin, may significantly reduce mental health symptoms stemming from racism. An internet survey of 313 Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) revealed moderate reductions in traumatic stress (d=-.45), depression (d=-.52), and anxiety (d=-.53) in the 30 days post-use. This suggests a powerful role for hallucinogens in clinical psychology and psychiatry. Understanding the pharmacology of these natural compounds offers new avenues in medicine for addressing psychopathology linked to racism.
Abstract
This study examined how psychedelics reduced symptoms of racial trauma among black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) subsequent to an experi...
Knowledge, Perceptions, and Use of Psychedelics among Individuals with Fibromyalgia
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – January 10, 2022
Summary
Among a population with Fibromyalgia, 11 of 12 individuals using hallucinogens like psilocybin or Lysergic acid diethylamide specifically for chronic pain reported improved symptoms. A survey of 354 North American adults revealed 29.9% had used a psychedelic, with 36.8% perceiving positive effects on their health. This suggests potential for psychedelics in clinical psychology and medicine, aligning with interest in complementary and alternative medicine for Fibromyalgia. Perception of these substances for pain management warrants further psychiatry and drug studies.
Abstract
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a difficult to treat chronic pain condition for which there is strong interest in alternative treatments. There is growing int...
Drugs of Abuse Monitoring in Blood for Control of Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring – April 01, 2002
Summary
Driving under the influence is a critical public safety issue; forensic toxicology is crucial for detection. A comprehensive review details analytical chemistry procedures for over 20 drugs in blood, vital for identifying impaired drivers. Covered are stimulants like Amphetamine, Methamphetamine, MDMA; opiates such as Codeine, Morphine, Methadone; and hallucinogens including Lysergic acid diethylamide, Psilocybin. Benzoylecgonine, Gamma hydroxybutyrate, and various cannabinoids, including synthetic cannabinoids and designer drugs, are also addressed. Chromatography methods underpin this pharmacology, informing poison control, medicine, and advancing drug studies.
Abstract
Driving under the influence of drugs is an issue of growing concern in the industrialized countries as a risk and a cause for road accidents. In fo...
Methoxetamine (MXE) – A Phenomenological Study of Experiences Induced by a “Legal High” from the Internet
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – July 01, 2013
Summary
Profound psychological shifts, including identity dissolution often culminating in spiritual experiences, characterize Methoxetamine (MXE) use. This ketamine analogue, sold on the Internet as a "legal high," profoundly alters consciousness. Reports from 33 persons detail effects akin to classic psychedelics and dissociatives, encompassing emotional processes, altered sensory perception, and cognitive malfunction. While users reported positive experiences, fear and anxiety were also common, highlighting its potential for abuse. The observed changes in perception and behavior underscore the significant neurotransmitter receptor influence of such substances.
Abstract
Methoxetamine (MXE), a ketamine analogue, is one of the new "legal highs" sold on the Internet. The aim of this qualitative study was to provide an...
Restructuring consciousness –the psychedelic state in light of integrated information theory
Frontiers in Human Neuroscience – June 12, 2015
Summary
Psychedelic drugs like psilocybin dramatically alter consciousness, offering a unique window into psychology and cognitive science. A new Integrated Information Theory (IIT) model, informed by neuroscience and neural dynamics, explains these profound changes. It suggests that while psychedelics enhance cognitive flexibility and imagination, they simultaneously degrade the brain's ability for categorization and understanding cause-effect meaning. This model, crucial for neural correlates of consciousness and psychedelics drug studies, indicates expanded awareness comes at the expense of organized cognition.
Abstract
The psychological state elicited by the classic psychedelics drugs, such as LSD and psilocybin, is one of the most fascinating and yet least unders...
The Potential Role of Serotonergic Hallucinogens in Depression Treatment
Life – July 29, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, demonstrates remarkable promise for treating depressive symptoms. A review of 14 clinical trials from the last 10 years in Psychedelics and Drug Studies found this serotonergic compound, derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, significantly reduced depression. One study even showed psilocybin's efficacy comparable to escitalopram, a standard medicine. No serious adverse effect was reported. This Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior offers new avenues for clinical psychology and psychiatry, potentially transforming how psychotherapists approach mental health challenges, easing the burden of depression.
Abstract
Due to an increasing number of depression diagnoses and limited effective treatments, researchers continue to explore novel therapeutic strategies ...
Evaluating the Potential Use of Serotonergic Psychedelics in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Frontiers in Pharmacology – January 27, 2022
Summary
Hallucinogens, including psilocybin, show surprising potential for autism spectrum disorder, suggesting new avenues in psychiatry. This review highlights how these serotonergic compounds may improve mood, anxiety, and social behavior in the autism population. Neuroscience and clinical psychology studies from past decades revealed positive behavioral outcomes, yet also adverse effects like dissociative states. Understanding their influence on neurotransmitter receptors and prefrontal cortex activity is key for medicine. Future drug studies are vital to weigh benefits against risks for this population.
Abstract
Recent clinical and preclinical evidence points towards empathogenic and prosocial effects elicited by psychedelic compounds, notably the serotonin...
Novel antidepressant drugs: Beyond monoamine targets
CNS Spectrums – September 30, 2021
Summary
Millions struggle with Major depressive disorder, yet current antidepressant medicine targeting monoamine neurotransmitters like dopamine often fails on efficacy or tolerability. New pharmacology in psychiatry and psychology is exploring pathways beyond these. For instance, nine glutamatergic and GABAergic drugs are in development. Furthermore, Psychedelics and Drug Studies show promise, with compounds like psilocybin, relevant to tryptophan and brain disorders, offering novel treatment of Major Depression. This expanded strategy aims for superior outcomes.
Abstract
Abstract Treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) including treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a major unmet need. Although there are...
Psilocybin in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder: What do we know so far?
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2021
Summary
Promising findings suggest psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, may offer relief for obsessive-compulsive disorder. One open-label clinical trial observed acute reductions in obsessive-compulsive symptoms, sparking interest across psychology and psychiatry. This initial data is encouraging for medicine and clinical psychology, prompting further rigorous clinical trials. These investigations aim to solidify psilocybin's potential in mental health research topics, exploring new therapeutic avenues for psychotherapists and advancing psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin is a naturally occurring plant alkaloid in mushrooms and a prodrug of psilocin. It is a serotonin receptor (5-HT2A) agonist...
Serotonergic Hyperactivity as a Potential Factor in Developmental, Acquired and Drug-Induced Synesthesia
Frontiers in Human Neuroscience – January 01, 2013
Summary
A compelling Neuroscience insight suggests excessive serotonin levels may unify synesthesia's varied forms. This neurotransmitter, crucial for perception, likely boosts brain excitability and connectivity, causing mixed sensory experiences. From developmental and acquired cases to drug-induced synesthesia (explored in Psychedelics and Drug Studies), heightened serotonergic activity appears central. This finding, relevant to Psychology and Medicine, supported by Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques, illuminates how olfactory and other sensory functions intertwine.
Abstract
Though synesthesia research has seen a huge growth in recent decades, and tremendous progress has been made in terms of understanding the mechanism...
Central Aromatic Amine Levels and Behavior
Archives of Neurology – July 01, 1963
Summary
The profound impact of biogenic amines like Serotonin on behavior is a core focus in Psychology and Drug Studies. Pharmacology reveals how agents modulate these crucial compounds. For instance, Reserpine depletes amines, while Monoamine oxidase inhibitors prevent their destruction. Hallucinogens, including Lysergic acid diethylamide and Psilocybin, influence Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior by blocking or mimicking amine actions. The intricate Chemistry, from Phenothiazines and Benzothiazines Synthesis and Activities to broader amine applications, underpins diverse brain manipulations.
Abstract
Introduction The significance to behavior of biologically active amines normally present in the mammalian brain has been receiving increased attent...
Mycotherapy: Potential of Fungal Bioactives for the Treatment of Mental Health Disorders and Morbidities of Chronic Pain
Journal of Fungi – March 11, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, reveals rapid, long-lasting antidepressant and anxiolytic effects for mental health challenges. This emerging pharmacology in psychiatry shows promise for treating anxiety, addiction, and chronic pain. Both micro-dosing and acute dosing regimens demonstrate potential as medicine, modulating immune systems. Such psychedelics, derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, represent a significant area for drug studies within complementary and alternative medicine, providing new hope for patients.
Abstract
Mushrooms have been used as traditional medicine for millennia, fungi are the main natural source of psychedelic compounds. There is now increasing...
Patterns, Trends, and Meanings of Drug Use by Dance-drug Users in Edinburgh, Scotland
Drugs Education Prevention and Policy – June 01, 2004
Summary
Over 40% of clubbers report anxiety and paranoia, stemming from drug use. A survey of 124 individuals revealed widespread use, with over 80% consuming alcohol, cannabis, and Ecstasy, and 63% using cocaine. These participants, often within dance scenes, cited relaxation and socializing as primary reasons. However, 44% admitted taking too many drugs, and 19% engaged in drug-driving. This psychological data is crucial for clinical psychology, informing medicine and psychiatry regarding substance abuse treatment and outcomes, particularly concerning paranoia and anxiety associated with psychedelics and other drugs.
Abstract
A survey of drug use in the past year was completed by 124 clubbers (50% male, 50% female, age range 14–44, mean 24 years). Participants were self ...
Heaven and Hell—A Phenomenological Study of Recreational Use of 4-HO-MET in Sweden
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – July 01, 2011
Summary
Users of the psychedelic 4-HO-MET describe profound shifts between "heaven" and "hell," yet remain satisfied and curious for more. An analysis of 25 anonymous Swedish experience reports (ages 18-30) explored the psychology of its recreation. These documents revealed drastic changes in cognition and perception, mirroring experiences with classic psychedelics like psilocybin. Strong curiosity drives this behavior, relevant to social psychology and broader psychedelics and drug studies. Understanding the substance's impact on neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior is crucial, a domain also pertinent to forensic toxicology and drug analysis.
Abstract
The psychoactive substance 4-HO-MET (4-hydroxy-N-methyl-N-ethyltryptamine) with psychedelic qualities is one of many legal so-called Internet drugs...
Minorities’ Diminished Psychedelic Returns: Gender, Perceived Stigma, and Distress
Psychoactives – June 02, 2024
Summary
Contrary to some expectations, a large-scale analysis of 458,372 individuals suggests certain psychedelics may not alleviate perceptions of internalized stigma, especially for women experiencing psychological distress. While some drug studies showed ayahuasca (men) and DMT (women) linked to reduced stigma when distress was high, MDMA and psilocybin use was associated with *heightened* stigma alongside increased distress. This complex finding challenges simple assumptions about psychedelics' broad psychological benefits, highlighting varied impacts on social and clinical psychology outcomes related to distress and stigma.
Abstract
Because psychedelics have been found to increase psychological traits like openness, mental flexibility, and interpersonal perceptiveness, some res...
Exploring protective associations between the use of classic psychedelics and cocaine use disorder: a population-based survey study
Scientific Reports – February 16, 2022
Summary
Strikingly, lifetime peyote use significantly reduces the odds of Cocaine Use Disorder (CUD) by over 50% (Odds ratio: 0.47). A comprehensive logistic regression analysis of 214,505 U.S. adults, addressing a major public health and addiction challenge, revealed this finding. While other classic psychedelics showed no such protective effect, peyote also lowered odds for seven of eleven CUD criteria. This insight from drug studies and clinical psychology offers promising directions for medicine and psychiatry in developing new treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Cocaine Use Disorder (CUD) is a significant public health problem associated with elevated morbidity and mortality within the United State...
Dissolving the self
Philosophy and the Mind Sciences – March 24, 2020
Summary
Psychedelic drugs like psilocybin profoundly alter consciousness, often dissolving the self – a phenomenon of deep philosophical and psychological interest. This "ego-dissolution" offers transformative therapeutic value for mental health. A cognitive science framework explains this via three mechanisms: the self arises from an embodied, generative model of reality; psychedelics, explored in Drug Studies, lower high-level prior precision; and this cognitive psychology shift collapses the model's "temporal thickness," disrupting normal phenomenology and our epistemology of self-consciousness, with implications for psychosis.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin, LSD and DMT are known to induce powerful alterations in phenomenology. Perhaps of most philosophical and scie...
Psychedelic treatment of functional neurological disorder: a systematic review
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2020
Summary
Sixty-nine percent of patients with Functional Neurological Disorder (formerly **Conversion disorder**) experienced recovery in early **psychedelics and drug studies**. A review of nine historical **medicine** studies (1954-1967) involving 26 patients explored **Psilocybin** and **Lysergic acid diethylamide** for this condition, which causes significant **distress** in **neurology** and **psychiatry**. Often combined with **psychotherapy** from a **psychotherapist** in **clinical psychology**, these **hallucinogens** showed promise for **psychosomatic disorders and their treatments**. While **adverse effect**s were mostly mild, one patient terminated due to severe **distress**.
Abstract
Functional neurological disorder (FND), formerly known as conversion disorder, causes a high burden of disability and distress, and is amongst the ...
Ethnoracial health disparities and the ethnopsychopharmacology of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies.
Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology – June 07, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics, used in psychotherapy, offer significant hope for treating psychiatric conditions like PTSD and depression, advancing Clinical psychology and Medicine. Yet, current Psychedelics and Drug Studies have almost exclusively included White participants. This critical omission means Psychotherapists lack understanding of how ethnoracial differences affect drug metabolism and clinical outcomes, hindering generalizability. Expanding research to include diverse populations, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, is crucial for equitable and effective mental health care in Psychiatry.
Abstract
Emerging evidence from randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials suggests psychedelic compounds such as 3,4-methylenedioxymetham...
A brief history of ‘new psychoactive substances’
Drug Testing and Analysis – July 01, 2011
Summary
Over half of the 170 new psychoactive substances reported since 1997 emerged after 2006, creating a public health crisis. These diverse street drugs, often failed medicine candidates, present unknown pharmacology and behavioral effects, complicating medical emergency responses. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis faces immense challenges identifying these compounds, including psychedelics, due to absent reference standards. Understanding their Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior is vital for psychiatry, but scarce data on these psychoactive substances raises serious concerns about future health impacts.
Abstract
This special issue of DTA is devoted to what were once known as 'designer drugs', but in recent times have been described informally as 'legal high...