1662 results for "LSD"
The Psychedelic Future of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment
Current Neuropharmacology – January 05, 2024
Summary
With 12 million U.S. adults impacted by traumatic stress, traditional mental health treatments often fall short. Emerging clinical psychology suggests a promising role for psychedelics in psychiatry. Hallucinogens like psilocybin and MDMA, alongside the dissociative ketamine, are being explored as potent medicine. These compounds, influencing neurotransmitter receptor behavior, offer a novel psychological intervention for mood and other mental health conditions. Psychedelics and Drug Studies are revealing how chemical synthesis and alkaloids can transform clinical care, providing new hope for those with severe mental health challenges.
Abstract
Abstract: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur following exposure to a traumatic experience. An estima...
Out of Harm's Way?: Illicit Drug Use, Medicalization and the Law
The British Journal of Criminology – October 01, 2003
Summary
British drug policy, driven by medicalization and perceived harm, overemphasizes law enforcement. A new sociological analysis of illicit drug use, relevant to criminology and law, proposes a fundamental shift. It develops a social classification that aligns with calls for harm reduction, advocating a move from enforcement-led strategies. This political science perspective supports downgrading Cannabis and Ecstasy, and suggests extending reclassification to magic mushrooms and cocaine, paving the way for broader legal reform.
Abstract
Although British drugs policy has become increasingly contested, debate in this area has continued along well-established lines. Recent reviews, in...
The use of illicit drugs as self-medication in the treatment of cluster headache: Results from an Italian online survey
Cephalalgia – April 22, 2015
Summary
All 54 cluster headache patients surveyed were dissatisfied with conventional Medicine, prompting many to explore illicit drug alternatives. In these Migraine and Headache Studies, 63% used cannabinoids, 33% tried Psilocybin, and 7% used Lysergic acid diethylamide. Alarmingly, 8 patients even resorted to Heroin. This use of illicit drugs, including Psychedelics, highlights a trend in Psychiatry. Patients, often finding suggestions online, underestimate legal risks and overestimate safety of these Complementary and Alternative Medicine approaches, impacting the physician-patient dynamic.
Abstract
Background Cluster headache (CH) patients often receive unsatisfactory treatment and may explore illicit substances as alternatives. We aimed to ex...
Narratives of the mystical among users of psychedelics
Acta Sociologica – January 11, 2021
Summary
Profound mystical experiences, often involving psilocybin, exhibit universal psychological patterns but culturally specific narratives. Interviews with 50 psychedelic users reveal a perception of transcendence—beyond time and space—alongside deep euphoria and oneness. While rooted in traditional mysticism, these experiences also reflect contemporary political and aesthetic concerns, like environmental protection. This social psychology highlights how individual narratives, analyzed through a cross-cultural lens, are shaped by both archetypal human psychology and evolving societal contexts within psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
We are now witnessing a radical revival in clinical research on the use of psychedelics (e.g. LSD and psilocybin), where ‘mystical’ experiences are...
Could Hallucinogens Induce Permanent Pupillary Changes in (Ab)users? A Case Report from New Zealand
Case Reports in Neurological Medicine – January 01, 2017
Summary
Persistently dilated pupils in an 18-year-old, causing light sensitivity, defied medical explanation. Ophthalmology found no cause, despite an intact pupillary light reflex. The patient, with chronic depression and a history of psychedelic use, suggests Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior. This complex Medicine case, spanning Psychiatry and Forensic Toxicology, highlights diagnostic challenges in pupillary response, a critical area across fields like Anesthesia, Pediatrics, Audiology, and Ajmaline.
Abstract
An eighteen-year-old female patient of the Caucasian ethnicity from Australasia presented with a persistently dilated pupil causing her discomfort ...
Back to the Future — The Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelic Drugs
New England Journal of Medicine – April 14, 2021
Summary
Mescaline, described by Aldous Huxley as "extraordinary," sparked immense interest in hallucinogens. Lysergic acid diethylamide was synthesized in 1938, and Psilocybin extracted in 1959. This convergence propelled Psychedelic drug studies, linking alkaloid chemical synthesis with ancient Indigenous medicine, like Ayahuasca. Psychiatry and Psychology now explore their potential as medicine. Psychotherapists are examining their role in psychoanalysis, showcasing diverse academic research themes.
Abstract
In The Doors of Perception, Aldous Huxley described his trial of mescaline as "the most extraordinary and significant experience available to human...
Altered stakes: Identifying gaps in the informed consent process for psychedelic-assisted therapy trials
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – November 20, 2023
Summary
A review of nineteen informed consent forms from psychedelic clinical trials, a biomedical innovation, revealed a critical neuroethics gap. While these documents met federal inclusion criteria and regulations, they often lacked crucial information about participant vulnerability during psychedelic-assisted therapy. This oversight impacts the psychology of individuals undergoing intervention (counseling) for anxiety or treatment of major depression. Robust informed consent protocols are vital for the future of psychiatry and medicine, particularly given the unique nature of psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Psychedelic-assisted therapy (P-AT) has been shown to reduce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and an...
Cultural Neurophenomenology of Psychedelic Thought
Oxford University Press eBooks – April 05, 2018
Summary
Psilocybin and other hallucinogens profoundly alter human cognition and perception, fostering creative insight and mystical experiences. Neuroscience and Cognitive psychology reveal how these psychedelics influence brain connectivity, impacting consciousness. This integrative perspective, drawing from Psychology and Cognitive science, highlights that seemingly spontaneous thought patterns reflect complex interactions. Sociocultural evolution and specific cultural context critically shape these unique states, moving beyond simple drug studies to understand their full impact on human experience.
Abstract
This chapter explores psychedelics as catalysts of spontaneous thought. Classic serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca ca...
Psilocybin as an alternative medicine for patients suffering from depression
Psychiatria i Psychologia Kliniczna – September 30, 2016
Summary
Psilocybin, a natural alkaloid, offers significant promise as a medicine for depression. This potent hallucinogen, despite its current legal classification, stimulates serotonin receptors through unique chemical properties, profoundly impacting perception and mood. Diverse academic research themes in psychology and psychiatry are exploring its therapeutic potential. Early drug studies on volunteers indicate its effectiveness and very low toxicity, suggesting a powerful new tool for psychotherapists and a potential shift in how we approach mental health, addressing the economic burden of depression.
Abstract
Psylocybina jest substancją psychodysleptyczną pochodzenia naturalnego, występuje w grzybach rodzaju Psilocybe. Psychodysleptyki są środkami psycho...
Psychedelic-assisted therapy for treating anxiety, depression, and existential distress in people with life-threatening diseases
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews – September 11, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy offers hope for profound relief from severe anxiety, depression, and existential distress, including death anxiety, in those facing life-threatening illness. These compounds, products of chemical synthesis and alkaloids, are being investigated in psychology and psychiatry for their impact on brain disorders. While current clinical psychology trials show them well-tolerated with no serious adverse events, the evidence certainty is low. Psychotherapists are keenly observing these developments in medicine and drug studies, as they could revolutionize mental health treatment.
Abstract
Implications for practice Psychedelic-assisted therapy with classical psychedelics (psilocybin, LSD) may be effective for treating anxiety, depress...
Psychedelics and mindfulness: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – September 16, 2022
Summary
A systematic review of 13 studies, from 1805 screened, compellingly shows that ingesting psychedelics, such as psilocybin and Ayahuasca, significantly enhances mindfulness. These hallucinogens, impacting neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, specifically boost acceptance—non-judgement of inner experience and non-reactivity. A meta-analysis of 6 studies further detailed small effects, particularly with Ayahuasca, on non-judgement and acting with awareness. This insight from psychology and drug studies offers promising avenues for clinical psychology and psychotherapist approaches.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims The benefits of classic serotonergic psychedelics (e.g. psilocybin, LSD, DMT, ayahuasca) are becoming more widely know...
Effects of Ayahuasca on Personality: Results of Two Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trials in Healthy Volunteers
Frontiers in Psychiatry – August 06, 2021
Summary
A compelling psychology finding: the hallucinogen Ayahuasca, a complex plant alkaloid, may influence personality. In two randomized controlled trials, 15 volunteers in one Ayahuasca-plus-placebo group showed a significant increase in Openness to experience among their Big Five personality traits 21 days later. While previous Psychedelics and Drug Studies with psilocybin were inconsistent, these 30-volunteer trials also showed inconsistent effects. Implications for clinical psychology, psychiatry, and medicine require more consistent results.
Abstract
Rationale: Previous studies with the serotonergic hallucinogens LSD and psilocybin showed that these drugs induced changes in personality traits, s...
Psychedelic Epistemology: William James and the “Noetic Quality” of Mystical Experience
Religions – November 29, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics reliably occasion intense mystical experiences, echoing William James's 1902 concept of religious experience and its noetic quality. This epistemological aspect, central to the philosophy of religion, is now measured in drug studies involving chemical synthesis and alkaloids. However, concerns arise in psychology and philosophy: does this inject undue mysticism into science? Debates question the quality of such experiences and their necessity for therapeutic benefits, challenging the epistemology of psychedelic research and biochemical analysis techniques.
Abstract
William James proposed in 1902 that states of mystical experience, central to his idea of religious experience, can be identified based on their in...
The Acceptance/Avoidance-Promoting Experiences Questionnaire (APEQ): A theory-based approach to psychedelic drugs’ effects on psychological flexibility
Journal of Psychopharmacology – March 01, 2022
Summary
The interplay between acceptance and experiential avoidance during psychedelic experiences profoundly shapes psychological flexibility. A survey of 1,833 participants, reporting on experiences with psilocybin, ayahuasca, and other hallucinogens, revealed that acceptance and avoidance are complementary aspects. Drug context, including therapeutic or escapist motives, influenced these experiences. Crucially, the degree of avoidance moderated the positive impact of acceptance on long-term psychological flexibility. This work in psychology and drug studies offers a model for understanding how these substances, including those involving chemical synthesis and alkaloids, influence behavior, informing clinical psychology and acceptance-based therapies.
Abstract
Background: Many benefits and some harms associated with psychedelic use could be attributable to these drugs’ acceptance/avoidance-promoting effec...
BOOTLEGGED ECSTASY
JAMA – March 07, 1964
Summary
Quiet scientific endeavors exploring Lysergic acid diethylamide and Psilocybin for their potential in Psychiatry haven't yielded medical breakthroughs for psychoses. Instead, these potent hallucinogens have created societal issues. A lack of appropriate publicity has led to widespread misuse, offering personal gratification, pleasure, and a false sense of ecstasy. This unintended consequence underscores complex ethical considerations for psychotherapists and other professionals when examining such compounds, distinct from established treatments like Pimozide.
Abstract
For several years, quietly and without publicity, several scientists have been studying the behavioral pharmacology of lysergic acid diethylamide (...
Is the Requirement for First-Person Experience of Psychedelic Drugs a Justified Component of a Psychedelic Therapist’s Training?
Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics – March 02, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like Psilocybin and MDMA show significant therapeutic potential for conditions from addiction to existential distress, marking a potential step change in Psychiatry. While their value stems from unique experiential learning, questions arise regarding psychotherapist training. Should future psychotherapists undergo hallucinogen experiences themselves? Current thinking suggests requiring such firsthand engagement isn't ethically legitimate without stronger evidence of its unique contribution to understanding psychology. However, permitting voluntary participation in Psychedelics and Drug Studies might be acceptable, acknowledging the diverse academic research themes involved.
Abstract
Abstract Recent research offers good reason to think that various psychedelic drugs—including psilocybin, ayahuasca, ketamine, MDMA, and LSD—may ha...
Trajectories of drug use among French young people: Prototypical stages of involvement in illicit drug use
Journal of Substance Use – January 20, 2016
Summary
Illicit drug use among young people follows distinct patterns. An analysis of 23,882 French 17-year-olds identified two clear groups of illicit drugs (beyond cannabis). The first, including Ecstasy/MDMA and cocaine, typically precedes the second group, featuring drugs like heroin. This distinction in substance use trajectories is crucial for Psychology and Psychiatry, informing targeted prevention within the population, impacting Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes, and future prenatal substance exposure effects.
Abstract
Aims: This study investigated patterns and trajectories of substance use, with a special focus on illicit drugs other than cannabis. It examined bo...
Blinding and Expectancy Confounds in Psychedelic Randomised Controlled Trials
OpenAlex – March 08, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics, with their known neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, are gaining traction in medicine for treating conditions like major depression. However, a meta-analysis of extant randomized controlled trials in clinical psychology reveals that blinding failures and high patient expectancy, explained by expectancy theory, likely inflate reported large effect sizes from these drug studies. Careful attention to clinical trial design is crucial for accurate assessment.
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the potential for psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin, LSD and ketamine to treat a number of mental health disorde...
A persisting perception disorder after cannabis use
Progress in Neurology and Psychiatry – January 01, 2015
Summary
A compelling finding in Psychology and Medicine challenges our understanding of drug-induced disorders. While Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD) is typically linked to classical Psychedelics like Psilocybin and Mescaline, a recent case suggests a broader etiology. A single boy developed HPPD-like symptoms after using Cannabis just seven times. This observation, relevant for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, as well as Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, prompts new questions in Psychiatry regarding Perception and Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, indicating potential links beyond traditional hallucinogens.
Abstract
Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder is a disorder of uncertain aetiology occurring mainly after ‘classical’ hallucinogen use ( ie mescaline...
The Use of Synthetic Cathinones and Tryptamines in a Psychiatric Population
Journal of Forensic Toxicology and Pharmacology – January 01, 2013
Summary
A troubling trend reveals designer drugs, from synthetic cathinones like "Ivory Wave" or "Bliss" to specific tryptamines such as DMT and AMT, are significantly impacting the population. These substances, relevant to Pharmacology and Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, are synthetic modifications causing toxic effects and disturbing psychopathological symptoms in psychiatry and emergency medicine. This highlights a critical, evolving area for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, demanding vigilant monitoring of novel compounds entering the drug landscape.
Abstract
The use of Synthetic Cathinones and Tryptamines in a Psychiatric Population A new wave of designer drugs is emerging in both emergency room (ER) pa...
The Psychotomimetic Drugs
JAMA – March 07, 1964
Summary
Psychedelics profoundly reshape human consciousness, revealing the mind's capacity for extraordinary experiences. Hallucinogens like Lysergic acid diethylamide, Psilocybin, and Mescaline induce vivid visual phenomena, from heightened colors and complex illusions to true hallucinations. Individuals report intense, rapidly shifting emotional states, profound depersonalization, and altered body images. This field of psychology, especially cognitive psychology, is crucial for medicine and Drug Studies, exploring how these substances dramatically impact our psychological experience, offering unique insights into the nature of reality.
Abstract
FOR MANY YEARS several pharmacologically similar drugs—lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD-25), psilocybin, and mescaline, among others—have been of sp...
Ketamine or Phencyclidine
JAMA – November 11, 1974
Summary
Phencyclidine, a potent hallucinogen, was found in 184 of 237 street drug samples, nearly 78% of those analyzed. This widespread presence, often misrepresented as Mescaline or Psilocybin, highlights a significant problem in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Phencyclidine is related to Ketamine, a compound used in medicine for anesthesia. Understanding its pharmacology, particularly its Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, is crucial. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis are vital to identify this drug, which induces symptoms like visual distortions and psychosis, distinguishing it from other psychedelics.
Abstract
To the Editor.— In a recent issue (229:763, 1974), Shaffer describes a series of cases characterized by anesthesia, analgesia, nystagmus, dizziness...
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...
ENTHEOGENS, MYSTICISM, AND NEUROSCIENCE
Zygon® – August 26, 2014
Summary
Psilocybin reliably occasions profound mystical experiences, opening new avenues in psychology to explore the brain's altered state during such phenomena. This allows for critical drug studies into the neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. Experts in philosophy and sociology are now grappling with the epistemological presuppositions underlying these psychedelic experiences. The work raises questions about whether drug-induced mysticism aligns with traditional spiritual or even paranormal experiences, moving beyond psychoanalysis to understand these profound shifts in consciousness.
Abstract
Entheogens or psychedelic drugs such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin are associated with mystical states of experience. Drug law...
Psychedelic Therapy: A Primer for Primary Care Clinicians—Historical Perspective and Overview
American Journal of Therapeutics – March 01, 2024
Summary
MDMA, a synthetic drug, demonstrates superiority over existing treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder in two completed Phase III clinical trials. This highlights the growing potential of psychedelics as medicine in psychiatry. While psilocybin, a naturally occurring hallucinogen, shows a 25-29% depression remission rate in larger trials (100+ participants)—comparable to standard antidepressants at 30%—other compounds like lysergic acid diethylamide and the dissociative Esketamine are also being explored. Understanding their pharmacology and potential adverse effects is crucial as these drug studies advance.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelic drugs have recently emerged as plausibly effective pharmacological agents for the management of depression, anxiety, and ot...
Predicting changes in substance use following psychedelic experiences: natural language processing of psychedelic session narratives
The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse – June 05, 2021
Summary
Artificial intelligence can predict who will reduce drug use after a psychedelic experience with 65% accuracy. Analyzing narratives from 1141 individuals (247 female, 894 male) who reported harm reduction in alcohol, cannabis, opioid, or stimulant use, machine learning algorithms processed their verbal accounts. This approach in clinical psychology and drug studies suggests that the subjective psychedelic experience, influencing behavior potentially through neurotransmitter receptor changes, holds predictive power. Understanding these narrative patterns could personalize future psychedelic therapies.
Abstract
Background: Experiences with psychedelic drugs, such as psilocybin or lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), are sometimes followed by changes in patter...
Advances in Psychedelic Medicine
OpenAlex – January 01, 2019
Summary
Psychedelics are rapidly transforming Medicine, with the U.S. government lifting its testing ban over a decade ago. Substances like Psilocybin, MDMA, and the hallucinogen Ayahuasca are now being integrated into Psychiatry and Psychology, augmenting psychotherapies for conditions like Addiction and depressive disorders. This comprehensive assessment covers clinical efficacy, safety, and ethical considerations, alongside neuroscience findings. It also explores microdosing, cannabinoid research, and training future psychotherapists in this evolving field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Researchers, program administrators, and practicing clinicians explain the most recent developments in using psychedelic substances to treat psycho...
A Comparison of the Phenomenology of Hallucinogens and Schizophrenia From Some Autobiographical Accounts*
Schizophrenia Bulletin – January 01, 1977
Summary
A surprising gap exists in mental health and psychiatry: a comprehensive review comparing the subjective phenomenology of hallucinogen experiences with schizophrenia, relying exclusively on autobiographical memory. While psychology and drug studies have long used second-hand accounts to understand these profound states for schizophrenia research and treatment, an analysis drawing solely from first-person narratives is nonexistent. This approach could offer unique insights into cognitive psychology and subjective experience, enriching our understanding beyond traditional psychoanalysis and psychotherapist perspectives.
Abstract
Over the years there have been many reviews of the phenomenology of hallucinogens and schizophrenia. The vast majority of these have been written b...
Psychedelic experiences and long-term spiritual growth: a systematic review
Current Psychology – July 12, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics, including psilocybin, significantly foster long-term spiritual growth, a systematic Psychology review of 34 studies involving 19,724 participants reveals. These substances, often associated with profound religious experience and Mysticism, enhance feelings of unity and Transcendence, deepen spiritual Faith, and boost Social connectedness. Individuals report stronger divine connections, increased meaning, and greater engagement in Spirituality. This suggests a powerful link between certain Chemical synthesis and alkaloids and an individual's Religiosity and overall well-being, influencing their religious orientation.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic substances, which can occasion mystical experiences, are sometimes used for religious and spiritual reasons. Despite strong li...
Jekyll and Hyde Revisited: Paradoxes in the Appreciation of Drug Experiences and Their Effects on Creativity
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – September 01, 2002
Summary
Paradoxically, psychedelic experiences, like those from psilocybin, often evoke simultaneous feelings of both "possession" by an external agency and profound liberation. While social psychology typically divides these into two opposed cultural interpretations—either revealing hidden truths or being under an irrational influence—the reality for artists engaged in creativity, as seen in visual culture, suggests a complex interplay. Experiential learning shows aesthetic traits in art reflecting both extremes, bridging the "demoniacal" and "psychedelic" in a single psychological reality, challenging our epistemology.
Abstract
Historically, states of intoxication--like dreams and madness--are seen in either one of two opposed ways. The intoxicated are either "possessed" o...
HALLUCINOGENIC AGENTS
JAMA – September 14, 1963
Summary
A growing medical and social problem involves the ingestion of drugs drastically altering sensory perception. Public interest is increasing in psychotomimetic hallucinogens like Psilocybin, Mescaline, and Lysergic acid diethylamide. Even morning-glory seeds, containing lysergic acid, are now used. While traditional medicine has long seen such substances, a new wave of promotion targets the general public. This trend, involving six distinct hallucinogens, highlights a significant challenge. Understanding their pharmacology, from ancient use to modern forms, is crucial for medicine.
Abstract
An article on stramonium intoxication in this issue ofThe Journal(p 882) calls attention to a growing medical and social problem in this country—th...
Self-Reported Illicit Drug Use Among Norwegian University and College Students. Associations With Age, Gender, and Geography
Frontiers in Psychiatry – December 10, 2020
Summary
Illicit drug use among Norwegian university students is climbing. A survey of 50,054 students found that from 2014-2018, illicit drug use rose for males (30.8% to 36.7%) and females (17.5% to 24.0%). Cannabis (15.2%) was the most common drug in the past year. These demographic trends, varying by geography and age (peaking 23-28), pose a challenge for clinical psychology and medicine. Robust substance abuse treatment, including for opioid use disorder, and mental health access are crucial for student environmental health in Norway.
Abstract
Background and Aims: Several studies have pointed to relatively high levels of illicit drug use among students in higher education compared to the ...
Improved colour blindness symptoms associated with recreational psychedelic use: Results from the Global Drug Survey 2017
Drug Science Policy and Law – January 01, 2020
Summary
Remarkably, some individuals with color blindness report improved vision after using hallucinogens like Lysergic acid diethylamide and Psilocybin. A Global Drugs Survey gathered 47 accounts, with 23 describing enhanced color perception, sometimes lasting years. This intriguing finding, significant for Psychology, Optometry, and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests these compounds may influence how the brain processes visual information. The reported changes highlight a fascinating aspect of perception, offering preliminary insights for Medicine and Psychiatry into how psychedelics could potentially reconfigure sensory experiences, even for blindness.
Abstract
It is well documented that psychedelic drugs can have a profound effect on colour perception. After previous research involving psychedelic drug in...
Forensic And Pharmaceutical Analysis Of Addictive Morbidity Because Of The Use Of Psychotropic Psychoactive Substances In Ukraine (Retrospective Aspect)
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – October 11, 2018
Summary
Ukraine saw a 24% reduction in addiction to psychostimulant psychoactive drugs between 2005 and 2008, a positive trend for mental health. Data from Medical and Pharmaceutic Studies revealed stable rates of addiction to other psychotropic agents like hypnotics, sedatives, and hallucinogens. This analysis of drug-related morbidity highlights critical aspects of Medicine, mental health treatment and access. Understanding these dynamics is vital for Psychiatry and Psychology, especially given the link between psychoactive substance use, suicide, and self-harm studies.
Abstract
Introduction. The use of psychoactive substances is one of the leading factors in the deterioration of the mental health of the population. The dyn...
Microdosing Psychedelics: Personality, mental health, and creativity differences in microdosers
OpenAlex – November 01, 2018
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics, like Psilocybin or Mescaline, shows exciting potential for mental health. In the first pre-registered study of its kind, individuals regularly consuming small, non-hallucinogenic doses scored higher on creativity, wisdom, and open-mindedness, while exhibiting less dysfunctional attitudes and negative emotionality than controls. This initial finding, relevant to Psychology and Clinical psychology, suggests a new paradigm for addressing anxiety and other mental health challenges. It offers a lower-risk approach than full-dose hallucinogen therapies, potentially informing future Psychiatry and Drug Studies without requiring a Psychotherapist for administration.
Abstract
Microdosing psychedelics - the regular consumption of small amounts of psychedelic substances such as LSD or psilocybin - is a growing trend in pop...
Macrodosing to microdosing with psychedelics: Clinical, social, and cultural perspectives
Transcultural Psychiatry – August 29, 2022
Summary
Microdosing classical hallucinogens like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide is a burgeoning trend, despite limited formal drug studies. While macrodosing effects are well-documented, microdosing involves intermittent, sub-perceptual doses, reportedly enhancing cognition and mental function. Many claim it's a therapeutic intervention, improving psychology without full "trips." This exploration synthesizes the social and clinical context of this practice, examining its potential as a psychotherapist-guided tool versus recreational use. Understanding these substances, often products of chemical synthesis, requires biochemical analysis to discern their true impact.
Abstract
To date, the clinical and scientific literature has best documented the effects of classical psychedelics, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)...
Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained: Regulations Cripple Potentially Life-Saving Research of Illicit Substances
ACS Chemical Neuroscience – May 12, 2020
Summary
Regulations designed to prevent harm from substances like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide severely cripple scientific progress. These rules make it nearly impossible to acquire illicit hallucinogens for vital research, achieving nothing but hindering potential life-saving discoveries. Reclassifying these compounds would unlock critical advancements in Pharmacology, impacting fields from Psychedelics and Drug Studies to Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research and even Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis. This regulatory business currently stifles crucial scientific inquiry.
Abstract
Modern day research, in an attempt to determine the potential therapeutic and adverse effects of illicit substances, is a growing field, but one th...
5HT2a Receptors – a New Target for Depression?
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2015
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin profoundly reduce brain activity, particularly in areas rich in the 5-HT2A receptor, a key 5-HT receptor. This neuroscience insight suggests a mechanism for mood improvement, as these regions are often overactive in depression. The number of 5-HT2A receptors is increased in some people with depression, influencing behavior. Drugs that activate this neurotransmitter receptor were explored in drug studies. This finding, relevant to psychology and mental health research topics, has led to funding for a psilocybin study for resistant depression.
Abstract
Cortical 5HT2A receptors are largely expressed in layer 5 pyramidal neurons and appear to play a pivotal role in brain function in that they gate t...
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...
Drug use and hypnotic susceptibility
International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis – January 01, 1972
Summary
Individuals who have experimented with hallucinogens like psilocybin or mescaline exhibit greater hypnotic susceptibility. Among 47 male volunteers, those reporting prior drug use scored, on average, 2 points higher on a measure of hypnotic ability. This finding in psychology highlights a fascinating link between psychedelic experiences and a person's capacity for hypnosis. Such insights are valuable for clinical psychology and psychiatry, potentially informing applications in pain management, the placebo effect, and even mindfulness and compassion interventions, enriching drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract 47 undergraduate male volunteers were asked 2 questions relating to their use of marijuana and/or psychedelic drugs (e.g., LSD, mescaline,...
Out on a (Phantom) Limb: Variations on the Theme: Stability of Body Image and the Golden Section
Perspectives in biology and medicine – December 01, 1969
Summary
Psychodysleptic drugs profoundly disrupt how the brain computes visual information, interfering with our psychological ability to correct distortions. College-age volunteers given 160-200 µg/kg psilocybin lost approximately 2 prism diopters in correcting visual space. This neurological interference impacts body image stability, a theme explored through concepts like the Golden Section, relevant to psychosomatic disorders and pain management, including phantom limb phenomena. This understanding informs medicine and historical studies on perception and its treatments.
Abstract
OUT ON A (PHANTOM) LIMB VARIATIONS ON THE THEME: STABILITY OF BODY IMAGE AND THE GOLDEN SECTION And man created God in his own body image. ROLAND F...
Mush Room for Improving Therapeutic Approaches in Psychiatry
Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics – March 15, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, once a taboo "magic mushroom," is now a serious focus in medicine, moving beyond fictional drama's outrage. A recent extensive phase II clinical trial for treatment-resistant major depressive disorder yielded "intriguing and sobering" results, prompting a phase III study. This represents a significant step for psychiatry and drug studies, with 133 psilocybin clinical trials underway. Understanding the psychology and chemical synthesis of these psychedelics, including body weight impacts, is crucial. Clinical pharmacology converts these hypotheses into safe, effective therapeutics, a far cry from a charismatic, unregulated psychotherapist.
Abstract
In the televised fictional drama "Nine Perfect Strangers," based on a novel with the same name,1 nine people gather for a retreat in a wellness res...
Psychedelics and Mindfulness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
OpenAlex – October 11, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics, including alkaloids like psilocybin and ayahuasca, significantly boost mindfulness, particularly acceptance, non-judgement of inner experience, and non-reactivity. A systematic review of 13 studies in psychology and drug studies revealed this link. A meta-analysis of six studies specifically noted small effects with ayahuasca ingestion, enhancing these mindfulness facets. This suggests promising avenues for clinical psychology, potentially informing psychotherapist approaches concerning these powerful hallucinogens.
Abstract
Background and Aims: The benefits of classic serotonergic psychedelics (e.g. psilocybin, LSD, DMT, ayahuasca) are becoming more widely known with t...
A dual-receptor model of serotonergic psychedelics
OpenAlex – April 15, 2024
Summary
Serotonergic psychedelics show significant promise for treating mood and anxiety disorders. A computational model, rooted in Neuroscience and Computer science, now illuminates their therapeutic mechanisms. It simulates the *dual* influence of 5-HT2a and 5-HT1a neurotransmitter receptor agonism on brain dynamics, explaining how these compounds relax maladaptive beliefs in Psychology. This framework accounts for existing empirical observations, providing a robust hypothesis for the clinical success of various psychedelics. It also highlights avenues for Chemical synthesis and alkaloids, suggesting future Psychedelics and Drug Studies focus on biased 5-HT1a agonists, like 5-MeO-DMT, for developing more effective agents.
Abstract
Abstract Serotonergic psychedelics have been identified as promising next-generation therapeutic agents in the treatment of mood and anxiety disord...
Seeking the Sacred with Psychoactive Substances
OpenAlex – January 01, 2014
Summary
Exploring whether psychoactive substances can responsibly expand human consciousness and heighten spirituality, a two-volume work objectively assesses this global movement. Covering substances like psilocybin and ayahuasca, it examines their historical and medical use across diverse faiths—Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Shamanism. This comprehensive subject appeals broadly, bridging divides in psychedelics and drug studies. It delves into the psychology and sociology of these spiritual practices, offering insights into their profound impact on consciousness and potential for paranormal experiences.
Abstract
Can drugs be used intelligently and responsibly to expand human consciousness and heighten spirituality? This two-volume work presents objective sc...
Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, or Substance Use Disorders
Canadian Journal of Health Technologies – June 24, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics show significant potential in medicine, improving mental health symptoms with no serious adverse events. One randomized controlled trial found psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy efficacious for mood disorders like depression. Across two systematic reviews and three randomized controlled trials, various hallucinogens, including MDMA, combined with psychotherapist support, demonstrated clinical effectiveness for conditions like anxiety. This growing area in clinical psychology and psychiatry, part of broader drug studies, explores how these compounds, often from chemical synthesis, influence behavior. Sample sizes were typically under 20, warranting further investigation.
Abstract

 Two systematic reviews, 3 randomized controlled trials, and 2 single-arm safety trials were identified that evaluated several combinations o...
Introduction to the chemistry and pharmacology of psychedelic drugs
Australian Journal of Chemistry – July 04, 2023
Summary
Heightened interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy for mental health conditions drives current Psychedelics and Drug Studies. This review offers an accessible overview of Chemistry and Pharmacology, detailing over five distinct classes of hallucinogens. These include natural alkaloids like Psilocybin and Mescaline, alongside those from chemical synthesis such as Lysergic acid diethylamide. Understanding their Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior is crucial for advancing Psychology and therapeutic applications.
Abstract
The science of psychedelics is an intriguing, multi-disciplinary field that has recently been the subject of heightened public interest. This has m...
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...
Hallucinogen Persistent Perception Disorder Induced by New Psychoactive Substituted Phenethylamines; A Review with Illustrative Case
Current Psychiatry Reviews – August 10, 2016
Summary
The first documented case of Hallucinogen Persistent Perception Disorder (HPPD) caused by a high dose of 2C-E, a modern designer drug, highlights an emerging concern in Psychiatry. While HPPD is known from traditional psychoactive substances like Lysergic acid diethylamide, Psilocybin (a Tryptamine), and Mescaline, this Phenethylamine-class substance presents new challenges for Medicine. The individual's persistent visual disturbances, a focus of Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, were effectively blunted by lamotrigine. This case, often identified via Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, signals evolving risks from novel hallucinogens.
Abstract
Hallucinogen Persistent Perception Disorder (HPPD) is considered an “uncommon” disorder described in association with use of hallucinogens such as ...
Microdosing as a response to the meaning crisis
OpenAlex – May 26, 2020
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics can foster a profound sense of meaning and psychological flexibility, even if outcomes vary. Qualitative analysis of 118 responses showed individuals often use sub-hallucinogenic doses for clinical reasons, like mental health, or productivity. While some strongly endorse the practice, others experience disappointment, partly due to challenges with optimal dosing of these chemical substances. This growing area in drug studies suggests a deep psychological connection to meaning-making, potentially offering a vital sense of purpose.
Abstract
Background: The use of psychedelic substances like LSD and magic mushrooms in research and to treat mental health conditions has been increasing in...