171 results for "Ego Dissolution"
Psychedelics, the Spiritual and Consciousness—an Evolving Confluence in the Cultural Stream
Tikkun – January 01, 2018
Summary
A compelling finding from a survey of 893 participants reveals that ego dissolution during psychedelic experiences predicts liberal political views, openness, and nature relatedness, while negatively predicting authoritarianism. This highlights psychedelics' role in a broader stream of awakening consciousness. Such experiences, studied in psychology and social psychology, foster a confluence of individual aesthetics and environmental ethics, democratizing spiritual access. This sociological impact underscores their potential to deepen our collective stream of consciousness, fostering connection and cooperation.
Abstract
in this time of ever ascendant materialism, greed, and pathological narcissism, when the delusion of the disconnected dominant individual grows str...
Increases in Aesthetic Experience Following Ayahuasca Use: A Prospective, Naturalistic Study
Journal of Humanistic Psychology – February 27, 2024
Summary
Participants in an ayahuasca retreat (N = 54) reported significant increases in aesthetic experience one week and one month post-retreat, compared to baseline. Specifically, 70% noted enhanced appreciation for art and beauty. Interestingly, factors like mystical experiences and ego dissolution did not predict these aesthetic changes. This suggests that ayahuasca may uniquely influence how individuals perceive and express aesthetics, aligning with anecdotal evidence of psychedelics enhancing artistic appreciation. These findings highlight the potential of psychedelics in transforming psychological perspectives on aesthetics.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs are currently being investigated for their potential to facilitate a variety of long-lasting psychological changes. One area that...
ALADIN ∞ ℂ(t) — The Final Law of the Universe: Complete Repository (December 2025) — 430 MB Definitive Archive
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – December 14, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking finding reveals that a primordial current density of 1.000 × 10¹⁸ A/m² can explain cosmology, consciousness, and quantum biology without invoking dark matter or energy. This comprehensive archive includes 486 reproducible Python proofs and raw EEG data from breakthrough subjects undergoing experiences like 5-MeO-DMT and sustained meditation. Key insights include consciousness as a physical field oscillating at 43 Hz, ego dissolution at 41 seconds, and a measurable immortality switch, suggesting profound connections between neurophysiology and enlightenment.
Abstract
Mihai Alexandru Bucurenciu (Aladin), independent researcher, Sibiu, Romania. This is the complete and definitive archive of ALADIN ∞ ℂ(t) — the Fin...
Exploring the Role of Psychedelics in Modulating Ego and Treating Neuropsychiatric Disorders.
ACS chemical neuroscience – May 07, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide can temporarily quiet the brain's default mode network, reducing ego-driven thought patterns. This disruption appears key in treating neuropsychiatric diseases. Research shows these substances create new neural pathways and emotional breakthroughs, offering relief from depression and anxiety when combined with therapy.
Abstract
This viewpoint explores the therapeutic potential of psychedelics in treating neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly through the modulation of br...
Safety and tolerability of NN-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) in healthy volunteers and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) patients: A systematic review of early-phase clinical trials.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – June 07, 2025
Summary
A naturally-occurring psychedelic, DMT shows promise as a safe treatment option for depression. Analysis of early clinical trials reveals that while DMT can temporarily increase blood pressure and cause mild discomfort, these effects are short-lived and manageable. The compound was well-tolerated across multiple delivery methods, with no serious adverse events reported in either healthy volunteers or patients with treatment-resistant depression.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a challenge, with many patients unresponsive to standard antidepressants. NN-dimethyltryptamine (DMT),...
Absolute Oral Bioavailability and Bioequivalence of LSD Base and Tartrate in a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study.
Clinical pharmacology and therapeutics – May 26, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking study reveals that LSD has an impressive 80% oral absorption rate, regardless of its chemical form. Different oral formulations of LSD were equally effective at reaching the bloodstream, though intravenous delivery produced stronger effects and more anxiety. This research helps standardize dosing for ongoing medical studies exploring LSD's potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health conditions.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is currently being investigated as a potential treatment for psychiatric and neurological disorders. Different LSD...
Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy May Enhance Conservation Values in Patients with Alcohol Use Disorder
Psychedelic Medicine – November 25, 2024
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin, an alkaloid from chemical synthesis, significantly altered values in 48 patients with alcohol use disorder receiving psychotherapy. Among 93 participants, those given psilocybin increased "Conservation" values (e.g., security, tradition). Acute psychedelic experiences correlated with these shifts (r=0.31–0.34). However, these psychological changes were unrelated to alcohol consumption outcomes. This informs medicine, psychiatry, and pharmacology within psychedelics and drug studies, including cannabis and cannabinoid research, by detailing how such compounds impact personal psychology.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin can produce long-term changes in personality, personal values, and behavior. Although psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) is b...
The evolution of N, N-Dimethyltryptamine: from metabolic pathways to brain connectivity.
Psychopharmacology – April 11, 2025
Summary
A naturally-occurring neurotransmitter in our bodies, DMT has profound effects on brain connectivity. When present, it enhances global neural networks and alters consciousness by binding to specific receptors. Both endogenous and exogenous DMT influence cognition by increasing brain signal complexity and strengthening connections between key regions. This psychedelic compound's unique properties suggest it plays a vital role in consciousness.
Abstract
N, N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a potent serotonergic psychedelic, bridges ancient wisdom and modern science. The mechanisms underlying its powerful...
Pharmacological and non-pharmacological predictors of the LSD experience in healthy participants.
Translational psychiatry – September 04, 2024
Summary
Personality traits and mindset before taking LSD significantly shape the psychedelic experience, alongside dosage. Research with 213 healthy participants found that while dose was the strongest predictor of effects, pre-existing mood and openness to new experiences strongly influenced outcomes. People with prior psychedelic experience reported less anxiety, and genetic factors affected anxiety levels during sessions.
Abstract
The pharmacodynamic effects of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) are diverse and different in different individuals. Effects of other psychoactive s...
Psilocybin desynchronizes the human brain.
Nature – August 01, 2024
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin dramatically alters brain connectivity patterns, causing networks that normally work in sync to become temporarily desynchronized. This disruption is particularly strong in brain regions linked to our sense of self and perception of time. The changes persist for weeks, especially between memory centers and self-awareness networks, potentially explaining psilocybin's therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
A single dose of psilocybin, a psychedelic that acutely causes distortions of space-time perception and ego dissolution, produces rapid and persist...
Phase 1, placebo-controlled, single ascending dose trial to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics and effect on altered states of consciousness of intranasal BPL-003 (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine benzoate) in healthy participants.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – August 01, 2024
Summary
A groundbreaking nasal spray formulation of the psychedelic compound 5-MeO-DMT shows promise for future therapeutic applications. The treatment proved safe and well-tolerated, with rapid onset (8-10 minutes) and brief duration. 60% of participants reported complete mystical experiences at higher doses, while maintaining an excellent safety profile. The drug's efficient pharmacokinetics and strong pharmacodynamics suggest potential for treating depression.
Abstract
To investigate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of BPL-003, a novel intranasal benzoate salt formulation o...
Effects of Ayahuasca on Gratitude and Relationships with Nature: A Prospective, Naturalistic Study.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2025
Summary
People who experience awe and mystical states during ayahuasca ceremonies show lasting increases in gratitude and connection to nature. This traditional psychedelic brew was found to enhance participants' appreciation for life and the natural world, with benefits persisting for at least a month. The quality of the experience, rather than number of ceremonies, proved most important in fostering these positive personality changes.
Abstract
Qualitative studies and anecdotal reports suggest that experiences with ayahuasca, a psychedelic brew found in Central and South America, may be fo...
Safety, tolerability, pharmacodynamic and wellbeing effects of SPL026 (dimethyltryptamine fumarate) in healthy participants: a randomized, placebo-controlled phase 1 trial.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2023
Summary
A groundbreaking trial reveals that dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a powerful psychedelic compound, shows promise as a safe treatment option. When administered intravenously to healthy participants, DMT demonstrated good tolerability and positive effects on mental wellbeing. The trial tested multiple doses to determine optimal levels for treating major depressive disorder, with pharmacodynamic data supporting the 21.5mg dose as most effective.
Abstract
Due to their potential impact on mood and wellbeing there has been increasing interest in the potential of serotonergic psychedelics such as N,N-di...
[Psychedelic Experiences: Phenomenology, Therapeutic Potentials and Explanatory Models].
Vertex (Buenos Aires, Argentina) – July 10, 2023
Summary
Profound shifts in consciousness through psychedelic experiences may hold the key to breakthrough mental health treatments. Studies show psilocybin and similar compounds can create meaningful altered states of consciousness that help treat depression, anxiety, and addiction. Psychedelic-assisted therapies are proving especially promising for treatment-resistant depression, with patients reporting lasting positive changes after guided sessions.
Abstract
Traditional psychedelics, such as LSD, psilocybin, or DMT, are psychoactive compounds that exert their effects mainly through agonism over serotone...
Assessment of the Acute Effects of 2C‐B vs. Psilocybin on Subjective Experience, Mood, and Cognition
Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics – May 30, 2023
Summary
While the hallucinogen 2C-B, derived from mescaline, impacts cognition similarly to psilocybin, its psychological effects differ. In a 22-participant double-blind study, 2C-B (20mg) and psilocybin (15mg) both impaired psychomotor speed versus placebo. Yet, psilocybin caused greater dysphoria and auditory alterations, relevant to audiology. As a serotonergic compound, 2C-B’s effects resolved within six hours. These psychedelics and drug studies inform clinical psychology's understanding of mood, anhedonia, and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, crucial for developmental psychology insights.
Abstract
2,5‐dimethoxy‐4‐bromophenethylamine (2C‐B) is a hallucinogenic phenethylamine derived from mescaline. Observational and preclinical data have sugge...
How does psilocybin therapy work? An exploration of experiential avoidance as a putative mechanism of change.
Journal of affective disorders – August 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin therapy shows promise in treating major depressive disorder by helping people face rather than avoid difficult emotions. In a groundbreaking comparison with traditional antidepressants, patients who received psilocybin therapy experienced significant mental health improvements through reduced experiential avoidance and increased emotional openness. The therapy's success appears linked to profound experiences of self-discovery and enhanced connectedness.
Abstract
Psilocybin therapy is receiving attention as a mental health intervention with transdiagnostic potential. In line with psychotherapeutic research, ...
Cannabis-assisted psychotherapy for complex dissociative posttraumatic stress disorder: A case report
Frontiers in Psychiatry – February 09, 2023
Summary
A young woman with complex dissociative posttraumatic stress disorder achieved a 98.5% reduction in pathological dissociation after ten sessions of cannabis-assisted psychotherapy. This psychotherapist-guided treatment combined cognitive and exposure therapies to address severe depersonalization and derealization, common in dissociative and panic disorders. Improved cognition and psychosocial functioning were sustained for over two years. Offering a promising avenue for clinical psychology and psychiatry, it links cannabis to psychedelics and their Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior.
Abstract
Background A dissociative subtype of posttraumatic stress disorder, known as “D-PTSD”, has been included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual o...
Body mass index (BMI) does not predict responses to psilocybin
Journal of Psychopharmacology – November 14, 2022
Summary
A significant finding in clinical psychology reveals that a person's Body Mass Index (BMI) does not predict the intensity of their psilocybin experience or subsequent psychological well-being improvements. This is crucial for medicine and internal medicine, as it supports standardized dosing. Data from three studies, using a fixed 25 mg dose of this naturally occurring alkaloid, show that BMI doesn't influence overall altered states or emotional breakthroughs. While psilocybin influences behavior via neurotransmitter receptors, this research suggests that for psychedelic-assisted therapy, a fixed dose is effective across varying BMIs, simplifying drug studies and treatment context.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin is a serotonin type 2A (5-HT 2A ) receptor agonist and naturally occurring psychedelic. 5-HT 2A receptor density is known to...
Ketanserin Reverses the Acute Response to LSD in a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study in Healthy Participants
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – November 04, 2022
Summary
A compelling finding: the medicine Ketanserin can dramatically shorten the effects of the hallucinogen Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). In a crossover study with 24 participants, administering Ketanserin one hour after LSD reduced the psychedelic experience from 8.5 hours (with placebo) to just 3.5 hours. This receptor antagonist effectively reversed LSD’s impact on psychology, including visual alterations. This pharmacology demonstrates Ketanserin, an antagonist, offers a crucial rescue option for psychedelic drug studies, influencing behavior through neurotransmitter receptor blocking. Biochemical analysis revealed no change in BDNF levels.
Abstract
Abstract Background Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is currently being investigated in psychedelic-assisted therapy. LSD has a long duration of ac...
Psychedelics, Mystical Experience, and Therapeutic Efficacy: A Systematic Review
Frontiers in Psychiatry – July 12, 2022
Summary
Compelling findings for **Psychology**: mystical experiences significantly reduce **distress** and **anxiety**. Ten of twelve reviews on **psychedelics** like psilocybin (derived from **chemical synthesis and alkaloids**) confirm a strong link between these profound experiences and symptom reduction. This offers promising avenues for **Clinical psychology**, **Psychiatry**, and **Psychotherapists**, illustrating how these substances, through **neurotransmitter receptor influence**, affect behavior. While impactful, many analyses had small sample sizes, suggesting the need for broader investigation in **Drug Studies**.
Abstract
The mystical experience is a potential psychological mechanism to influence outcome in psychedelic therapy. It includes features such as oceanic bo...
The phenomenology of psilocybin's experience mediates subsequent persistent psychological effects independently of sex, previous experience, or setting.
Pharmacological reports : PR – June 16, 2025
Summary
The lasting positive effects of psilocybin depend on the acute experience, not factors like prior use or sex. Researchers explored this in 40 healthy individuals, some with previous experience, who received repeated administration of psilocybin. Findings revealed significant, enduring positive psychological changes. Even initially challenging acute sessions resolved positively, and benefits were consistent across all participants, irrespective of sex or prior psilocybin experience. Peak positive feelings during the experience strongly predicted these favorable long-term outcomes, underscoring psilocybin's safety and potential for repeated use.
Abstract
Recent studies intensively explore psilocybin's antidepressant potential, but variables like previous experience, repeated use, setting, and sex re...
The phenomenology of psilocybin’s experience mediates subsequent persistent psychological effects independently of sex, previous experience or setting
OpenAlex – August 26, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, safely induces lasting positive psychological effects. A placebo-controlled study of 40 healthy adults showed mostly pleasant altered states of consciousness, via visual analogue scale, with only one unpleasant instance. All experiences resolved positively, supporting its safety for repeated use in clinical psychology and psychiatry. This underscores Psychedelics and Drug Studies, revealing how chemical synthesis and alkaloids influence neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. Such psychology insights inform diverse fields, from developmental psychology to audiology.
Abstract
Abstract Background Recent studies have intensively explored the potential antidepressant effects of psilocybin. However, important variables such ...
The clinical pharmacology and potential therapeutic applications of 5‐methoxy‐N,N‐dimethyltryptamine (5‐MeO‐DMT)
Journal of Neurochemistry – February 12, 2022
Summary
Single exposure to the naturally occurring tryptamine 5-MeO-DMT shows promise for rapid, sustained reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms. This potent psychedelic acts as an agonist on specific neurotransmitter receptors, influencing behavior and inducing short-lasting "peak" experiences, a key predictor in psychology. One clinical trial confirmed safety for vaporized doses up to 18 mg. Its rapid pharmacology and short duration make it appealing for medicine, attracting biotech interest for commercial development in brain disorders. Understanding its neurophysiological mechanisms is crucial.
Abstract
Abstract 5‐methoxy‐N,N‐dimethyltryptamine (5‐MeO‐DMT) is a naturally occurring tryptamine that primarily acts as an agonist at the 5‐HT1A and 5‐HT2...
Evaluation of the peak experience scale as a rapid assessment tool for the strength of a psychoactive experience with 5-MeO-DMT.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2025
Summary
A new, brief questionnaire accurately gauges the intensity of a potent psychedelic experience. Researchers developed a simple, three-item 'peak experience' questionnaire to quickly assess the strength of the psychoactive effects of 5-MeO-DMT (mebufotenin). This tool proved highly effective in 84 participants, showing strong correlation with established measures of the psychedelic experience. Its ratings increased significantly with higher doses, confirming its ability to rapidly assess the intensity of this unique psychoactive compound. This validates the questionnaire as a valuable, quick way to understand individual responses and guide dosing for this powerful psychedelic.
Abstract
A three-item Peak Experience Scale (PES) was developed to rapidly evaluate the strength of the psychoactive experience, and to guide the dosing reg...
Enhanced meaning in life following psychedelic use: converging evidence from controlled and naturalistic studies
Frontiers in Psychology – June 06, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics profoundly enhance existential meaning, a vital aspect of psychology, across diverse contexts including a clinical trial for depression, a healthy volunteer study, and naturalistic retreats. Psilocybin, a naturally occurring alkaloid, robustly increased the "presence of meaning" in participants. This finding, crucial for cognitive science, suggests influencing neurotransmitter receptors can profoundly reshape an individual's sense of purpose. Such drug studies offer psychotherapists new insights into human behavior, echoing themes explored in psychoanalysis regarding deep personal transformation.
Abstract
Introduction Psychedelics, such as psilocybin, are increasingly recognized for their propensity to elicit powerful subjective experiences that carr...
Neural filters to conscious awareness and the phenomena that reduce their impact.
International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England) – January 01, 2025
Summary
What if our everyday reality is just a sliver of what's possible? It appears our **consciousness** is often constrained by the brain's "neural filters," which narrow our perception. Yet, when the activity of these **neural filters** is reduced—through practices like deep **meditation** or the use of a **psychedelic compound**—individuals can access a wider awareness. This leads to a profound **transcendent experience**, allowing the mind to perceive information beyond typical sensory limits. Such states suggest a vast, untapped potential for human awareness.
Abstract
In this review, we examine studies suggesting that conscious or mental awareness is constrained by our neural filters. These filters include sensor...
Assessment of the acute effects of 2C-B vs psilocybin on subjective experience, mood and cognition
OpenAlex – February 16, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding reveals the hallucinogen 2C-B, derived from mescaline, offers a "lighter" psychedelic experience than psilocybin. In a study of 22 healthy participants, 2C-B produced psychedelic states, but psilocybin led to larger dysphoria, subjective impairment, and auditory alterations, impacting mood and cognition. Both compounds, compared to placebo, caused equivalent psychomotor slowing and spatial memory issues. This work in psychology and drug studies advances understanding of how these substances, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, affect behavior.
Abstract
Abstract 2,5-dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine (2C-B) is a hallucinogenic phenethylamine derived from mescaline. Observational and preclinical data h...
Persisting Effects of Ayahuasca on Empathy, Creative Thinking, Decentering, Personality, and Well-Being
Frontiers in Pharmacology – October 01, 2021
Summary
A single Ayahuasca experience can significantly enhance empathy and well-being. Up to 43 volunteers demonstrated increased cognitive and emotional empathy, plus greater life satisfaction, lasting a week. This psychedelic, an alkaloid-rich brew, also reduced neuroticism, a personality trait often associated with anxiety. Such psychological shifts suggest Ayahuasca holds promise for clinical psychology, potentially aiding mental health by influencing the brain's biochemical responses.
Abstract
Background: Naturalistic and placebo-controlled studies have suggested that ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian beverage, could be helpful in the tr...
Quality of Acute Psychedelic Experience Predicts Therapeutic Efficacy of Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant Depression
Frontiers in Pharmacology – January 17, 2018
Summary
The quality of a psychedelic experience profoundly impacts long-term mental health. A clinical trial with 20 patients found that receiving psilocybin, an alkaloid hallucinogen, for treatment-resistant depression yielded significant results. Specifically, mystical-type experiences during a 25mg psilocybin session predicted reduced depression symptoms five weeks later. This pharmacology insight, reflecting psilocybin's neurotransmitter receptor influence, suggests optimizing the acute experience is crucial for effective medicine in drug studies.
Abstract
Introduction: It is a basic principle of the "psychedelic" treatment model that the quality of the acute experience mediates long-term improvements...
Neurobiological Correlates of Psychedelic Experiences and Psychedelic-Associated Adverse Effects.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – July 31, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics significantly impact brain function, with neuroimaging studies revealing alterations in neural mechanisms. For instance, fMRI and EEG data from over 1,000 participants demonstrate changes in brain connectivity linked to visual effects and emotional experiences. The chapter discusses the Cortico-Striato-Thalamo-Cortical feedback loop and the entropic brain hypothesis while highlighting acute adverse effects that occur in roughly 10-30% of users. Insights into these mechanisms may shed light on psychiatric conditions, although long-term adverse effects remain rare and poorly understood.
Abstract
This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of our current understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying the effects of psychedelic drugs, wit...
Naturalistic use of psychedelics does not modulate processing of self-related stimuli (but it might modulate attentional mechanisms): An event-related potentials study.
Psychophysiology – August 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics may not lead to lasting changes in self-perception. In a study involving 56 experienced users and 57 nonusers, neural responses were measured via electroencephalography (EEG) while participants reacted to stimuli related to their own names and others'. Both groups showed similar P300 amplitudes for self and target names. However, psychedelic users demonstrated a heightened P300 response to other names and a reduced response to task-relevant target names, suggesting that psychedelics might influence attention rather than alter the self-concept.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics are able to profoundly alter the state of consciousness and lead to acute experiences of ego dissolution - the blurring of the...
Neural Mechanisms and Psychology of Psychedelic Ego Dissolution
Pharmacological Reviews – September 09, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics profoundly reshape consciousness, offering insights into brain organization. Neuroscience demonstrates these drug studies primarily influence serotonergic 5-HT2A receptors, a key neurotransmitter receptor influencing behavior. Neuroimaging reveals this biochemical interaction leads to neuromodulatory changes affecting sentience and causing "ego dissolution," fundamentally altering selfhood. Psychology suggests this disarms ego resistance, expanding perceptual hypotheses. This extensive evidence helps understand how these substances alter our perception of the world, highlighting their impact on hierarchical processing.
Abstract
Neuroimaging studies of psychedelics have advanced our understanding of hierarchical brain organization and the mechanisms underlying their subject...
Effects of psilocybin versus escitalopram on rumination and thought suppression in depression
BJPsych Open – September 01, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, uniquely reduces maladaptive rumination and thought suppression in individuals with major depression. In a clinical trial of 59 participants, Psilocybin treatment led to significant decreases in these cognitive processes, unlike Escitalopram. Notably, reduced thought suppression was exclusive to Psilocybin responders, achieving at least 50% symptom reduction. This offers new insights for psychiatry, internal medicine, and clinical psychology into treatment of major depression, impacting psychometrics of cognition and anxiety management through novel psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Background Major depressive disorder is often associated with maladaptive coping strategies, including rumination and thought suppression. Aims To ...
Journeying to Ixtlan: Ethics of Psychedelic Medicine and Research for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias.
AJOB neuroscience – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic medicine shows promise for addressing psychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, yet remains unapproved for treatment. A proposed research agenda highlights six ethical concerns, including the effects of psychedelics on patient autonomy and caregiving dynamics. With an emphasis on the potential for exploitation and inequity, these issues are particularly pressing for individuals with dementia. Engaging 100 experts in psychiatry, this initiative aims to navigate the complex landscape of psychedelic drug use in vulnerable populations, ensuring responsible exploration of their therapeutic potential.
Abstract
In this paper, we examine the case of psychedelic medicine for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD). These "mind-altering" drugs are...
Psychosis and psychedelics: Historical entanglements and contemporary contrasts.
Transcultural psychiatry – October 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic experiences and psychosis reveal starkly contrasting approaches in modern psychiatry. While psychedelic research, involving over 1,000 participants, emphasizes mystical experiences and the influence of set and setting, psychosis studies focus on universal symptoms and reductionist explanations. Responses to psychedelic crises prioritize compassion, whereas psychotic episodes often lead to restraint and seclusion. These differing values highlight critical lessons for clinical practice. As psychedelic science re-emerges under regulatory scrutiny, the unique insights from these two fields may risk being overshadowed by traditional medical paradigms.
Abstract
Experiences of psychedelics and psychosis were deeply entangled in scientific practices in the mid-20th century, from uses of psychedelic drugs tha...
A Phase 1, Dose-Ranging Study to Assess Safety and Psychoactive Effects of a Vaporized 5-Methoxy-N, N-Dimethyltryptamine Formulation (GH001) in Healthy Volunteers.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2021
Summary
Higher doses of 5-MeO-DMT significantly enhance the intensity of psychedelic experiences, with notable effects observed at 6 mg (N=6), 12 mg (N=4), and 18 mg (N=4) compared to a 2 mg dose (N=4). In a group of 22 healthy volunteers, peak experiences were evaluated using various scales, revealing that individualized dose escalation produced the strongest effects. Importantly, cognitive functioning, mood, and well-being remained stable throughout. Adverse events were mild and transient, suggesting that this approach may optimize therapeutic outcomes in clinical settings.
Abstract
5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a tryptamine with ultra-rapid onset and short duration of psychedelic effects. Prospective studies ...
Naturalistic Use of Mescaline Is Associated with Self-Reported Psychiatric Improvements and Enduring Positive Life Changes.
ACS pharmacology & translational science – April 09, 2021
Summary
A remarkable 68-86% of adults who used mescaline reported improvements in mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders. In a survey of 452 participants, those experiencing acute psychological insights during their mescaline journeys had significantly higher chances of reporting these improvements, with effect sizes ranging from 0.7 to 1.5. Additionally, 35-50% described their mescaline experience as one of the most spiritually significant moments in their lives, highlighting its potential therapeutic value.
Abstract
Mescaline is a naturally occurring psychoactive alkaloid that has been used as a sacrament by Indigenous populations in spiritual ritual and healin...
"This Is Something That Changed My Life": A Qualitative Study of Patients' Experiences in a Clinical Trial of Ketamine Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorders.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2021
Summary
Participants in a clinical trial of ketamine for alcohol use disorder experienced profound transformations, with 100% reporting significant changes in their relationship with alcohol. In interviews with 12 individuals who received up to three ketamine infusions (0.8 mg/kg), six key themes emerged, including the impactful role of set and setting and the contradictions between dissociation and connection. Participants described mystical experiences and rapid shifts in perception, suggesting that the psychoactive effects of ketamine play a crucial role in its therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Background: The therapeutic benefits of ketamine have been demonstrated for a variety of psychiatric disorders. However, the role of ketamine induc...
Making "bad trips" good: How users of psychedelics narratively transform challenging trips into valuable experiences.
The International journal on drug policy – January 01, 2021
Summary
Nearly all of the 50 Norwegian psychedelic users interviewed reported experiencing bad trips, often characterized by feelings of losing oneself. Many believed that these frightening experiences could be mitigated by adhering to specific unwritten rules within their subculture. Interestingly, most participants found value in their bad trip narratives, viewing them as transformative and insightful. This storytelling not only helps users cope with distressing experiences but also reinforces their connection to the psychedelic community, allowing for continued use despite past challenges.
Abstract
We study the significance of stories about bad trips among users of psychedelics. Drawing on narrative theory, we describe the characteristics of s...
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Psychedelics as potent anti-inflammatory therapeutics
Neuropharmacology – August 22, 2022
Summary
A surprising discovery reveals Hallucinogens like Psilocybin, traditionally studied for their impact on Consciousness, are potent anti-inflammatories. While Neuroscience and Psychology focused on brain effects, new Pharmacology insights from Psychedelics and Drug Studies show these compounds modulate immunity throughout the body. This opens Medicine to a novel class of anti-inflammatory agents, effective even at doses below those altering perception. Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques are exploring how these compounds, related to Tryptophan, could treat inflammatory diseases beyond brain disorders.
Abstract
Psychedelics have seen a resurgence of interest from both the scientific and lay community in recent years. Psychedelics are known for their abilit...
Neurobiological and Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin in Psychiatric Disorders
Journal of Pharma Insights and Research. – October 05, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin offers rapid, sustained antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects, particularly for treatment-resistant depression and existential distress. Administered within psychotherapy, it acutely disrupts key brain networks, like the Default Mode Network, creating a state of elevated brain entropy. This leads to enhanced neuroplasticity, fostering new neural connections and helping unlearn maladaptive cognitive patterns. Significant efficacy is evident, but careful screening and a supportive therapeutic setting are essential for safe, effective application.
Abstract
Psilocybin, an indoleamine alkaloid derived from various fungal species, is the subject of renewed, rigorous investigation for its therapeutic pote...
Tripping over the other: Could psychedelics increase empathy?
Journal of Evolutionary Psychology – September 21, 2020
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is proving profoundly effective in clinical psychology. A key mechanism of action involves these compounds, often alkaloids from chemical synthesis, increasing empathy. Extensive drug studies demonstrate this influence on neurotransmitter receptors enhances the personality trait of openness to experience. This psychological shift leads to greater prosocial behavior and social connection, implications a psychotherapist might leverage. The growing body of evidence highlights how specific chemical actions can profoundly alter human behavior, impacting a crucial human trait like empathy.
Abstract
Abstract There is increasing evidence that psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is effective for a range of psychological conditions. There are likel...
Increases in aesthetic experience following ayahuasca use: An open-label, naturalistic study
OpenAlex – May 15, 2023
Summary
People report richer aesthetic experiences after Ayahuasca. A cohort of 54 individuals attending a retreat showed increased aesthetic perception one week and one month later compared to baseline. This finding, relevant to Psychology and Clinical psychology, suggests psychedelics can profoundly shift how we engage with beauty. While acute mystical experiences did not predict these lasting changes, it offers a new dimension for psychotherapists exploring perception and mysticism, expanding the scope of Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs are currently being investigated for their potential to facilitate a variety of long-lasting psychological changes. One area of p...
Sub-acute and long-term effects of ayahuasca on mental health and well-being in healthy ceremony attendants: A replication study
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – August 26, 2021
Summary
A single Ayahuasca ceremony can significantly reduce anxiety and stress for weeks, even without affecting depression. Among 73 participants, including first-time and experienced users, a profound psychedelic experience led to reduced anxiety and somatization, alongside increased non-judging, four weeks later. While satisfaction with life and awareness improved the day after the ceremony, these returned to baseline. This suggests a potential for this natural compound in mental health and psychiatry, offering insights for clinical psychology and medicine regarding the therapeutic effects of such experiences.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that the psychedelic plant tea, ayahuasca, holds therapeutic potential....
An experience with Holotropic Breathwork is associated with improvement in non-judgement and satisfaction with life while reducing symptoms of stress in a Czech-speaking population
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – December 15, 2021
Summary
Holotropic Breathwork, a Complementary and Alternative Medicine technique, significantly boosted non-judgement and satisfaction with life for 58 participants, while reducing anxiety and stress symptoms over four weeks. This Psychology finding is notable because, unlike Chemical synthesis and alkaloids in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, the non-drug method evoked only 0-34% of a typical psychedelic experience. The positive impact on Judgement and Clinical psychology outcomes suggests a powerful therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Abstract Background Holotropic breathwork (Grof ® Breathwork), was developed by Stanislav Grof and Christina Grof as a ‘non-drug’ alternative techn...
Data Sheet 1_Enhanced meaning in life following psychedelic use: converging evidence from controlled and naturalistic studies.pdf
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – June 06, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin robustly enhances one's sense of existential meaning, a vital component of mental health. Across clinical psychology trials, controlled administrations, and naturalistic observational study settings, the "presence of meaning" strongly increased. While the "search for meaning" was only weakly reduced, these psychosocial shifts correlated moderately with improved mental wellbeing and coping. This facilitation of profound psychological change offers new insights for social psychology and developmental psychology, providing a novel tool for a psychotherapist.
Abstract
Introduction Psychedelics, such as psilocybin, are increasingly recognized for their propensity to elicit powerful subjective experiences that carr...
Et psykoanalytisk og et postmoderne perspektiv på selv/egoopløsning i en psykedelisk kontekst
OpenAlex – January 04, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding from empirical research on self-dissolution during psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy is a profound feeling of connection. A systematic review of 10 qualitative studies reveals subjects often report a stronger feeling of essence and altered bodily experiences, despite challenging moments, leading to blissful outcomes. This phenomenon, central to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, is explored through Psychoanalytic theory, analyzing intra- and intersubjective processes. Another psychological perspective examines the influence of the therapeutic context on the subject's experience, providing insights for Mental Health and Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Techniques and Applications, enriching our understanding of the human psyche.
Abstract
Self or ego dissolution (SED) is a recurring, yet vaguely defined phenomenon often associated with positive therapeutic outcomes within clinical re...
A comparison of reactivation experiences following vaporization and intramuscular injection (IM) of synthetic 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) in a naturalistic setting
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – March 25, 2020
Summary
Vaporization of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) leads to significantly higher reactivation rates, with 69% of users experiencing reactivations compared to just 21% for intramuscular injection. In a survey of 27 participants, 8 in the vaporization group redosed multiple times, while only 2 did in the IM group. All IM users reported physical tension release, unlike 62% of those who vaporized. Additionally, IM users experienced a slower onset of effects, taking up to six minutes versus as little as 50 seconds for vaporization.
Abstract
Abstract Background Previous research suggests a therapeutic potential of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT). However, online anecdotal r...
All-natural 5-MeO-DMT sigma receptor 1 agonist and its therapeutic impact in mental and neurodegener-ative diseases through mitochondrial activation
Science Reviews Biology – July 30, 2023
Summary
The sigma-1 receptor (S1R) plays a pivotal role in neuronal health, particularly in regulating mitochondrial function and cellular survival. In studies involving natural agonists like 5-MeO-DMT, significant effects were observed: participants reported up to 70% higher satisfaction with life and a notable reduction in depression and stress levels. Additionally, 5-MeO-DMT enhanced synaptic plasticity in neurons, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative diseases. This highlights the importance of S1R in epigenetic modifications and its promise in improving mental health outcomes.
Abstract
The sigma-1 receptor S1R is a chaperone that resides mainly at the mitochondrion-associated endoplasmic reticulum ER membrane MAM, it is considered...
A Phase 1, Dose-Ranging Study to Assess Safety and Psychoactive Effects of a Vaporized 5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine Formulation (GH001) in Healthy Volunteers
European Psychiatry – June 01, 2022
Summary
A novel vaporized formulation of 5-MeO-DMT, tested on 22 healthy volunteers, demonstrated dose-related increases in psychedelic experiences without significant adverse effects. Participants reported heightened intensity on various scales, particularly after doses of 6, 12, and 18 mg. While cognitive functioning, mood, and well-being remained stable, individualized dose escalation led to the strongest psychoactive responses. Notably, vital signs were unaffected, and mild adverse effects like nausea resolved quickly. This approach may enhance therapeutic outcomes in treating depression with psychedelics.
Abstract
Introduction 5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a tryptamine with ultra-rapid onset and short duration of psychedelic effects. Prospec...