1731 results for "Ketamine"
Psychedelic Therapy: A Primer for Primary Care Clinicians-Psilocybin.
American journal of therapeutics
Summary
Psilocybin, found in magic mushrooms, shows remarkable potential in treating depression, with some early trials reporting remission rates of up to 57%. Recent research reveals this naturally-occurring compound is generally safe when used in controlled settings, causing mainly temporary effects like nausea. Clinical data suggests it's particularly effective for treatment-resistant depression, substance use disorders, and end-of-life anxiety, with benefits lasting months after just 1-2 doses. While larger trials show more modest success rates of 25-29%, the significant reduction in depressive symptoms still outperforms many traditional treatments.
Abstract
The primary psychoactive drug in magic mushrooms, psilocybin, induces profound alterations in consciousness through the 5-HT2A receptor. This revie...
Psychedelic Therapy: A Primer for Primary Care Clinicians-Historical Perspective and Overview.
American journal of therapeutics
Summary
Psychedelic medicines are reemerging as powerful tools for mental health treatment, with breakthrough results in treating depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Recent clinical trials show promising outcomes, particularly with MDMA for PTSD and psilocybin for depression. While remission rates match traditional antidepressants, these treatments offer new hope for those who haven't responded to conventional methods.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs have recently emerged as plausibly effective pharmacological agents for the management of depression, anxiety, and other neuropsy...
Exploring Novel Antidepressants Targeting G Protein-Coupled Receptors and Key Membrane Receptors Based on Molecular Structures.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) – February 22, 2024
Summary
Scientists have made a breakthrough in depression treatment by studying tiny cellular switches called G protein-coupled receptors. Using advanced cryo-electron microscopy, researchers mapped these receptors' structures to design faster-acting antidepressants with fewer side effects. Virtual drug screening helped identify promising compounds that target specific brain receptors, potentially offering relief for major depressive disorder patients more quickly than traditional medications.
Abstract
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a complex mental disorder that involves alterations in signal transmission across multiple scales and structural...
A Neuroanatomic and Pathophysiologic Framework for Novel Pharmacological Approaches to the Treatment of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
Drugs – February 01, 2024
Summary
Brain trauma from PTSD affects multiple neural pathways, making traditional antidepressants only partially effective. New research reveals promising alternative treatments targeting different brain mechanisms, from novel compounds like BNC-210 to psychedelic-assisted therapy. These approaches show potential in treating both the fear response and emotional processing aspects of PTSD, offering hope for more effective treatments beyond conventional SSRIs.
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating disorder inflicting high degrees of symptomatic and socioeconomic burdens. The development ...
Trauma-Informed Care in Psychedelic Therapy Research: A Qualitative Literature Review of Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Interventions in PTSD and Psychedelic Therapy Across Conditions.
Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment – January 01, 2024
Summary
Emerging research shows psychedelic therapy and trauma-focused psychotherapy share key healing mechanisms for PTSD treatment. A comprehensive review of patient experiences reveals both approaches rely on psychological safety, trust, and readiness to process trauma. Psychedelic treatments offer unique benefits through indirect processing and self-narrative reorganization, while maintaining core therapeutic principles.
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with significant patient burden. While pharmacotherapies and evidence-based psychotherapy inter...
Perceptual Modifying Compounds and Their Potential Therapeutic Applications in Neuropsychiatric Disorders.
ACS medicinal chemistry letters – January 11, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough research reveals how psychedelic compounds reshape brain circuits to combat depression, anxiety, and addiction. These substances promote neural growth and enhance brain plasticity by activating key cellular pathways. Working through the brain's command center, they strengthen connections in areas controlling mood and fear, offering rapid relief where traditional treatments often fall short.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds, including ketamine and LSD, have gained renewed interest as potential treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders. These compo...
Efficacy and Safety of Psychedelics in Treating Anxiety Disorders
Ochsner Journal – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics offer a promising new avenue for treating anxiety disorders. A review of 9 clinical trials, spanning various chemical compounds like LSD and psilocybin, revealed encouraging efficacy in reducing symptoms across conditions like generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety. Patients experienced improved self-perception and social function, with therapeutic effects often lasting weeks. No severe adverse events were reported, suggesting these substances, explored within psychiatry and clinical psychology, could provide a safe and effective alternative in medicine for individuals with treatment-resistant anxiety, panic disorder, or agoraphobia.
Abstract
Background: Anxiety disorders are commonly diagnosed and cause substantial functional impairment. A mixture of pharmacologic and psychosocial treat...
Set and setting predict psychopathology, wellbeing and meaningfulness of psychedelic experiences: a correlational study.
Expert review of clinical pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
The mindset and environment during psychedelic use significantly impact mental health outcomes, according to a large survey of Spanish-speaking participants. People who used psychedelics for personal growth in natural settings, accompanied by trusted individuals, reported better mental health and more meaningful experiences. Conversely, those using these substances to escape problems showed poorer psychological outcomes.
Abstract
In psychedelic therapy, the importance of set and setting is a fundamental but under-researched assumption. The aim of this study is to correlate v...
Psilocybin and Other Classic Psychedelics in Depression.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – January 01, 2024
Summary
Classic psychedelics like psilocybin and DMT show remarkable potential in treating depression through unique brain mechanisms. Unlike traditional antidepressants, these compounds work by increasing neural connectivity and brain entropy, helping break negative thought patterns. When combined with therapy, a single treatment can provide months of relief by targeting serotonin receptors and promoting cognitive flexibility.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin and ketamine are returning to clinical research and intervention across several disorders including the treatm...
Synergistic psychedelic - NMDAR modulator treatment for neuropsychiatric disorders.
Molecular psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Combining psychedelics with specific brain receptor modulators may enhance mental health treatment while reducing unwanted effects. New findings show that psilocybin and NMDA receptor compounds like D-serine work together to boost brain plasticity and mood improvement. This dual approach could offer more effective, safer treatment options for depression and other mental health conditions.
Abstract
Modern research data suggest a therapeutic role for serotonergic psychedelics in depression and other neuropsychiatric disorders, although psychoto...
Neuroimaging in psychedelic drug development: past, present, and future.
Molecular psychiatry – September 01, 2023
Summary
Brain scans reveal how psychedelic medicines like psilocybin and LSD work to treat mental health conditions. Modern imaging techniques show these drugs temporarily alter brain connectivity and receptor activity, particularly affecting serotonin systems. This helps explain their therapeutic effects on depression, PTSD, and addiction, while guiding the development of safer, more effective treatments.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy (PT) is an emerging paradigm with great transdiagnostic potential for treating psychiatric disorders, including depression, add...
Psychoplastogens: A Novel Therapeutic Approach for Neurological Diseases and Disorders.
ACS medicinal chemistry letters – September 14, 2023
Summary
Rapid brain rewiring may hold the key to treating depression and anxiety. New research reveals how certain compounds promote neural growth and enhance brain connectivity within hours - far faster than traditional medications. These natural and synthetic substances work by activating specific brain receptors that stimulate new neural connections. Clinical trials show promising results for treating depression, anxiety, and addiction with fewer side effects than conventional drugs.
Abstract
Neurological diseases often involve changes in synaptic connectivity and plasticity. Psychoplastogens, substances that stimulate neuronal growth an...
Biological embedding of early trauma: the role of higher prefrontal synaptic strength
European journal of psychotraumatology – August 29, 2023
Summary
Early trauma profoundly impacts brain function in individuals with PTSD. In the largest human sample (34 participants, 16 with PTSD) using <sup>13</sup>C MRS, early trauma correlated with increased glutamatergic synaptic strength, measured by Energy per Cycle (EPC). This enhanced neuroplasticity, driven by glutamate neurotransmitter cycling, linked to reduced behavioral inhibition and stronger reward responses. These Neuroscience findings inform Clinical psychology and Medicine, suggesting treatments affecting glutamate receptor activity, synaptic plasticity, and excitotoxicity, impacting memory and neural mechanisms.
Abstract
Background: Early trauma predicts poor psychological and physical health. Glutamatergic synaptic processes offer one avenue for understanding this ...
Survey of U.S. Residents and Their Usage of Electronic Cigarettes with Drugs Other Than Nicotine.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2024
Summary
One in three electronic cigarette users in the United States report using their devices for substances beyond nicotine. A nationwide survey reveals that vaping THC and other cannabinoids tops the list of alternative uses, with most users being young adult males. People typically vape these substances alone or with friends, raising concerns about impaired driving and public safety.
Abstract
Electronic cigarettes (e-cigs), originally intended to be used as cigarette substitutes, have evolved into discreet devices for consuming drugs oth...
Seasonal Variation of Use of Common Psychedelics and Party Drugs Among Nightclub/Festival Attendees in New York City
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – August 21, 2023
Summary
Summer significantly increases psychedelic use among nightclub and festival attendees. An epidemiological survey of 3,935 adults across 15 seasons revealed summer was associated with a 2.72 odds ratio for Lysergic acid diethylamide use and 1.65 odds ratio for Psilocybin. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies findings highlight seasonal hallucinogen consumption patterns. Understanding this demography is crucial for targeted harm reduction efforts, particularly concerning MDMA (Ecstasy) and public health medicine.
Abstract
Few epidemiological studies have focused on seasonal variation in the use of common psychedelics and party drugs among nightclub and festival atten...
Use of psychoactive substances by goods carriage drivers associated with Kerala, India.
Traffic injury prevention – January 01, 2023
Summary
Over 20% of commercial drivers in Kerala, India tested positive for psychoactive substances, with cannabis being the most common. Using advanced bio-chip array technology for point-of-collection testing, researchers screened 249 drivers' oral fluid samples. Longer-distance drivers showed higher substance use rates. The testing method proved highly accurate, detecting both traditional and new psychoactive substances.
Abstract
This study aimed to measure the prevalence of drugs of abuse (DOA) among the goods carriage drivers associated with the southern State of India, Ke...
Substance use, harm reduction attitudes and behaviors among attendees of nature rave parties in Israel.
Harm reduction journal – August 09, 2023
Summary
Israeli nature rave parties reveal a fascinating intersection of music culture and public health. At these outdoor celebrations, attendees show strong support for harm reduction strategies while using various substances. A survey of 1,200+ partygoers found cannabis as the most common substance (62%), followed by psychedelics. While participants supported safety measures like drug testing, turning attitudes into actions proved challenging. The findings highlight opportunities to enhance safety at these events.
Abstract
Few studies have analyzed harm reduction behaviors and attitudes among rave party attendees. Since the late 1980s, there has been a large Israeli r...
Neurochemical, Neurocircuitry, and Psychopathological Mechanisms of PTSD: Emerging Pharmacotherapies and Clinical Perspectives.
ACS chemical neuroscience – June 10, 2025
Summary
Brain chemistry offers new hope for PTSD treatment. Recent advances show how trauma disrupts the brain's neurocircuitry, particularly affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and serotonin levels. Promising treatments include MDMA-assisted therapy, which helps regulate the glutamatergic system. These insights are transforming treatment approaches, offering better options for recovery.
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating psychiatric condition triggered by exposure to traumatic events, with complex neurobiologic...
Generalizability of Risk Models for Treatment-Resistant Depression Across Three Health Systems.
medRxiv : the preprint server for health sciences – May 27, 2025
Summary
Depression treatment can fail in up to 30% of cases, making early risk prediction crucial. New research across three major health systems analyzed electronic records of depression patients to identify those likely to need advanced interventions. Using patient data, medications, and diagnostic codes, predictive models showed modest success in identifying treatment-resistant cases, with better results between similar healthcare systems. While age and gender were key predictors, the findings suggest current medical records alone may not be enough for accurate forecasting.
Abstract
As multiple strategies have emerged for managing treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, efficient identification of individuals at elevated...
High Rates of Drug Use and Chemsex Among PrEP Users and People with HIV in Milan Highlight Need for Targeted Interventions.
AIDS and behavior – June 09, 2025
Summary
Nearly half of HIV-prevention medication (PrEP) users and HIV-positive individuals in Milan engage in drug use, with 16% participating in chemsex - sexual activity combined with specific drugs. A comprehensive survey revealed that while drug use is common, over one-third of users don't discuss it with healthcare providers. This highlights opportunities for better risk reduction through improved patient-provider communication.
Abstract
Chemsex, the use of psychostimulant substances during sexual activity particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM), is a growing public healt...
Iatrogenic tension pneumothorax resulting from misconnection of the endotracheal tube to the auxiliary oxygen flowmeter of the anaesthetic machine.
Veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia – March 07, 2025
Summary
A routine veterinary scan turned critical when a simple equipment mix-up caused a life-threatening lung complication in a young canine patient. Quick thinking saved the day when veterinarians spotted dangerous chest pressure caused by incorrect connection of breathing tubes to the anaesthetic machine. The adverse event was resolved through emergency pressure relief and chest tube placement. This case highlights how standardized equipment connections can prevent serious tension pneumothorax and other adverse events during animal procedures.
Abstract
A 1-year-old, male entire English Springer Spaniel dog, presented for computed tomography investigation of bilateral pelvic limb gait abnormality. ...
A Review of Treatment Modalities for Comorbid Neuropathic Pain and Depression.
Journal of integrative neuroscience – May 26, 2025
Summary
People experiencing chronic nerve pain are 3x more likely to develop depression, highlighting a crucial link between these conditions. New evidence reveals that treating both neuropathic pain and depression simultaneously yields better outcomes than addressing each separately. Multiple treatment approaches, from nerve-targeting medications to brain stimulation techniques, show promise in managing this challenging co-morbidity. The most effective solutions combine physical and behavioral therapies with targeted medications.
Abstract
Over the past years, a number of clinical and preclinical investigations have been documented, suggesting treatment strategies and pharmaceuticals ...
Comparison of Esketamine/Propofol and Sufentanil/Propofol on Intraoperative Hypoxemia During Bronchoscopy: A Randomized Trial.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2025
Summary
During bronchoscopy procedures, low oxygen levels affect up to 67% of patients using traditional sedation methods. New research shows that combining esketamine with propofol reduces this risk significantly, dropping the occurrence of hypoxemia to just 27%. The study compared two sedation approaches in 66 patients, finding that the esketamine combination led to faster recovery times and better oxygen levels than the traditional sufentanil-propofol mix, with similar safety profiles.
Abstract
Propofol and sufentanil are the most commonly used anesthetics during bronchoscopy. Esketamine is an s-enantiomer of ketamine racemate and has both...
[Anhedonia: from clinical practice to biomarkers].
Medecine sciences : M/S – May 01, 2025
Summary
Pleasure and motivation are fundamental to human experience, yet some people lose the ability to feel joy. This reduced capacity, known as anhedonia, goes beyond simple sadness. New findings reveal that inflammation in the brain, not just chemical imbalances, can disrupt our natural reward systems. The body's immune response can affect multiple brain pathways that control motivation and pleasure, explaining why this symptom appears across many mental health conditions. Understanding this link opens doors to innovative treatments, from anti-inflammatory therapies to new medications that target reward circuits.
Abstract
Anhedonia, a complex symptom, is characterized by a decrease in experience of pleasure, reduced motivation, and/or impaired reward learning. Althou...
Strategies to Facilitate Intravenous Access for Electroconvulsive Therapy Procedures in Pediatric and Neurodivergent Patients: A Case Series.
Journal of child and adolescent psychopharmacology – May 19, 2025
Summary
Healthcare teams have found innovative ways to help young patients and those with autism spectrum disorder receive vital psychiatric treatments. By using personalized approaches like oral anxiety medication, gentle sedation, or specialized vascular access devices, doctors can now better assist patients who struggle with IV placement during electroconvulsive therapy. This advancement in child and adolescent psychiatry helps ensure all patients can access needed care.
Abstract
Introduction: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an effective treatment for severe and treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders, particularly depr...
Acute changes in serum iron concentrations in anesthetized healthy horses.
Veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia – January 01, 2025
Summary
During anesthesia, horses experience a dramatic drop in blood iron levels, with the most significant decrease occurring 24 hours after the procedure. In healthy horses monitored over time, serum iron dropped by nearly 60% a day after anesthesia, suggesting that the body's inflammatory response affects iron regulation. This finding helps veterinarians better interpret blood work in horses recovering from surgery, preventing potential misdiagnosis of inflammatory conditions.
Abstract
To determine if serum iron concentrations decrease acutely during and after general anesthesia in healthy horses. Prospective experimental study. A...
Effectiveness of non-surgical interventions for patients with chronic sciatica: A systematic review with network meta-analysis.
The journal of pain – May 13, 2025
Summary
Relief for chronic sciatica sufferers: Multiple non-surgical interventions show promise in managing leg pain. Spinal manipulation, exercise combined with neural mobilization, and targeted injections demonstrated significant pain reduction. Physical therapy and specialized injection treatments offered lasting functional improvements, giving patients more options beyond surgery.
Abstract
The objective of the study was to investigate the comparative effectiveness of non-surgical interventions for adults with chronic sciatica. EMBASE,...
Decreasing Preoperative Anxiety in Patients with Newly Available Multimodal Approaches-A Narrative Review.
Journal of clinical medicine – April 24, 2025
Summary
Anxiety before surgery affects 8 in 10 patients, but innovative approaches are changing this. A combination of medication and therapy shows promising results in reducing patient stress. Anti-anxiety agents provide quick relief, while perioperative care teams now use music, virtual reality, and psychotherapy. Informed consent processes have evolved to be more reassuring and comprehensive.
Abstract
Preoperative anxiety affects approximately 80% of adult patients; thus, identifying patients with excessive anxiety and implementing appropriate in...
The Role of microRNA in Anaesthetics-induced Brain Injury: A Narrative Review.
Turkish journal of anaesthesiology and reanimation – May 08, 2025
Summary
Small molecules in our cells may hold the key to making anaesthesia safer for developing brains. Recent findings show that microRNAs play a crucial role in how anaesthetic agents affect brain cells, particularly in young children. These molecules can either protect neurons or contribute to their damage. Understanding their function helps doctors develop safer anaesthesia protocols and protect vulnerable patients from neurotoxicity.
Abstract
Anaesthetics are commonly used agents during medical interventions and surgeries. Exposure to anaesthetic agents in late intrauterine life or early...
Case Report: Successful management of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures with intranasal esketamine.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking case shows how intranasal esketamine helped a patient overcome both treatment-resistant depression and functional seizures. The medication completely stopped the patient's psychogenic seizures while significantly improving their anxiety and depression symptoms. This success suggests esketamine could offer new hope for people with complex neuropsychiatric disorders linked to past trauma.
Abstract
Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), or functional seizures (FS), are episodes that resemble epileptic seizures but may be psychological in o...
Advances in the study of NMDA receptors in depression pathogenesis and the antidepressant efficacy of their antagonists.
Asian journal of psychiatry – June 01, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough brain research reveals why traditional antidepressants can take weeks to work, while newer treatments targeting NMDA receptors can lift severe depression within hours. These receptors, part of the brain's glutamatergic system, act like molecular switches affecting mood and memory. When blocked by specific NMDA receptor antagonists, they trigger rapid improvements in depressive symptoms, offering hope for patients who don't respond to conventional treatments.
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDA receptors) play a crucial role as ionotropic glutamate receptors in regulating neuroplasticity, learning, memo...
Implementation of a multimodal pain protocol in adult burn patients.
Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries – June 01, 2025
Summary
Burn patients who received a balanced combination of pain medications needed 44% less morphine while maintaining effective pain control. A new electronic prescription system helped doctors better manage acute pain in burns by automatically suggesting multiple pain relief options. The approach combined traditional opioids with safer alternatives like acetaminophen, leading to better multimodal pain treatment without compromising patient comfort.
Abstract
The 2020 American Burn Association guidelines recommend a multimodal approach to pain management comprised of both opioids and non-opioids. The pur...
Opioid-free anesthesia in bariatric surgery: a prospective randomized controlled trial.
European journal of medical research – April 23, 2025
Summary
Patients undergoing bariatric surgery experienced better pain control and needed less morphine when given opioid-free anesthesia compared to traditional methods. The approach combined several non-opioid medications to manage pain, reducing morphine use by more than 50%. Patients reported lower pain levels during rest and movement, with no increase in nausea or vomiting. They were also more satisfied with their care.
Abstract
Bariatric surgeries are increasingly used to manage obesity, presenting significant perioperative challenges, especially with opioid use. Opioid-Fr...
High-flow oxygenation therapy for a sedated elderly frail patient with hiccups undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation.
JA clinical reports – April 21, 2025
Summary
High-flow nasal oxygenation therapy proved remarkably effective in managing hiccups and maintaining stable breathing during a delicate heart valve procedure. The technique helped an 82-year-old patient with severe heart issues undergo transcatheter aortic valve implantation under conscious sedation, preventing complications and unwanted body movements while ensuring proper oxygen levels throughout the procedure.
Abstract
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) can be performed under sedation, but body movements may lower the efficacy of the procedure and may ...
Less is better: role of adjuvants.
Current opinion in anaesthesiology – April 11, 2025
Summary
Adding certain medications to local anaesthetics can significantly enhance pain control during regional anaesthesia. Recent evidence shows that carefully chosen adjuvants can boost the effectiveness of peripheral nerve blocks while reducing the amount of anaesthetic needed. Dexamethasone and dexmedetomidine stand out as promising options, with dexamethasone showing particularly strong results. This approach offers better pain management with lower medication doses.
Abstract
To update published data about adjuvants and examine their evolution in use over the last 2 years. This scoping review highlights current and updat...
Rapid Screening of Illicit Drugs from Biofluid via Dried Blood/Urine Spot and Ultrasonic Desorption-Assisted Low-Temperature Arc Plasma Ionization Mass Spectrometry.
Analytical chemistry – April 29, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking 3-second test now enables rapid detection of illicit drugs in blood and urine samples. Using innovative paper-based collection and advanced plasma technology, this method achieves highly accurate results with minimal sample preparation. The technique proves reliable across various storage conditions and can detect multiple drugs simultaneously, making it a game-changer for medical screening and forensic analysis.
Abstract
A novel method for rapid and sensitive illicit drug screening in biofluids has been developed by employing a paper-based sample collection coupled ...
Assessment of laparotomy-induced stress response in opium- and morphine-addicted rats by measuring serum glucose and corticosterone levels: an animal experiment.
Annals of medicine and surgery (2012) – March 01, 2025
Summary
Regular opium and morphine use may alter how the body responds to surgery. In an animal study, rats addicted to these substances showed significantly lower stress responses during laparotomy compared to non-addicted rats. Blood tests revealed reduced glucose and stress hormone levels in addicted rats after surgery, suggesting chronic opioid use dampens the body's natural surgical stress response.
Abstract
Surgical procedures induce stress responses similar to severe illnesses, activating the metabolic and neuroendocrine systems, especially the hypoth...
Psychedelics in the treatment of eating disorders: Rationale and potential mechanisms
European Neuropsychopharmacology – June 21, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy offers compelling promise for severe Eating disorders like Anorexia nervosa and Bulimia nervosa. Preliminary data, from various studies and case reports, suggests potential in Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology for improving body image and cognitive flexibility. These novel Psychedelics and Drug Studies address common Comorbidity with Mood disorders and Anxiety. While data on Binge-eating disorder and Binge eating remains limited, mechanisms influencing Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior offer new avenues. Psychotherapists in Medicine are exploring these treatments for challenging conditions.
Abstract
Eating disorders are serious illnesses showing high rates of mortality and comorbidity with other mental health problems. Psychedelic-assisted ther...
In vivo mapping of pharmacologically induced functional reorganization onto the human brain’s neurotransmitter landscape
Science Advances – June 14, 2023
Summary
The human brain's response to drugs reveals a profound link between molecular structure and behavior. Neuroscience shows diverse pharmacological agents, including 10 psychedelics and anesthetics, reorganize brain function by engaging multiple neurotransmitter systems. By mapping 19 neurotransmitter receptors and transporters, a clear influence on behavior emerged. This pharmacology insight has significant implications for Psychology and Medicine, informing drug studies and our understanding of brain disorders. Crucially, regional drug susceptibility mirrors vulnerability to structural alterations seen in conditions like those linked to Tryptophan imbalances.
Abstract
To understand how pharmacological interventions can exert their powerful effects on brain function, we need to understand how they engage the brain...
Therapeutic role of psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine in trauma: A literature review
World Journal of Psychiatry – May 19, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like MDMA and psilocybin are transforming psychiatry, showing promise for rapid improvement in conditions such as PTSD and depression. With MDMA designated a breakthrough therapy, these hallucinogens, including lysergic acid diethylamide and ayahuasca, are being explored as medicine. Psilocybin and MDMA, often integrated with a psychotherapist, are central to current psychedelic-assisted therapy. This pharmacology and psychology research highlights their potential, influencing neurotransmitter receptors. Chemical synthesis of these compounds is vital for drug studies.
Abstract
With the Food and Drug Administration designation in 2017 of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) as a breakthrough therapy in post-traumatic s...
Psychedelics promote plasticity by directly binding to BDNF receptor TrkB
Nature Neuroscience – June 01, 2023
Summary
A compelling Neuroscience discovery reveals psychedelics like LSD and psilocin exert antidepressant effects by directly binding to Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), a key Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) receptor. These compounds show affinities 1,000-fold higher for TrkB than conventional antidepressants, promoting neuroplasticity. Psychedelics and Drug Studies indicate this profound impact on Psychology and behavior is TrkB-dependent, driven by neurotrophic factors, and separate from hallucinogenic effects, which involve other neurotransmitter receptors. This opens avenues for non-hallucinogenic treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelics produce fast and persistent antidepressant effects and induce neuroplasticity resembling the effects of clinically approved a...
Role of Psychedelics in Treatment-Resistant Depression.
The Psychiatric clinics of North America – June 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough findings show that psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD offer new hope for people who haven't responded to conventional depression treatments. Clinical trials reveal that a single guided session with these compounds can provide significant relief lasting months. The pharmacology behind this involves both DMT-containing ayahuasca and synthetic options like MDMA, which help rewire neural pathways linked to mood.
Abstract
There is increasing interest in exploring the therapeutic potential of psychedelics in treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Classic psychedelics (...
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The thalamus in psychosis spectrum disorder.
Frontiers in neuroscience – January 01, 2023
Summary
The thalamus, a deep brain structure that acts like a neural switchboard, plays a crucial role in psychosis. Recent discoveries show how disrupted connections between the thalamus and cortex affect cognition and perception. Studies combining brain imaging and pharmacology reveal that this disruption mirrors effects seen with psychosis-inducing drugs. The mediodorsal nucleus appears particularly important, suggesting new treatment paths for mental health conditions.
Abstract
Psychosis spectrum disorder (PSD) affects 1% of the world population and results in a lifetime of chronic disability, causing devastating personal ...
Is the Requirement for First-Person Experience of Psychedelic Drugs a Justified Component of a Psychedelic Therapist's Training?
Cambridge quarterly of healthcare ethics : CQ : the international journal of healthcare ethics committees – March 02, 2023
Summary
Should therapists personally experience psychedelics before guiding others? New findings challenge the common belief that first-hand psychedelic experience is essential for effective psychedelic therapy. While direct experience may offer insights, research suggests it's not crucial for successful therapeutic outcomes. Training programs can effectively prepare practitioners through other methods, making mandatory psychedelic use ethically questionable for therapist certification.
Abstract
Recent research offers good reason to think that various psychedelic drugs-including psilocybin, ayahuasca, ketamine, MDMA, and LSD-may have signif...
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...
Among psychedelic-experienced users, only past use of psilocybin reliably predicts nature relatedness
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Experience with the hallucinogen psilocybin uniquely predicts a stronger connection to nature, according to a reanalysis of 3817 participants. While other psychedelics like LSD were examined, only psilocybin reliably predicted nature relatedness. Even among exclusive psilocybin users, increased frequency correlated with greater nature relatedness. This finding, crucial for psychology and clinical psychology, distinguishes psilocybin from other substances, including those like MDMA explored in broader psychiatry and drug studies, suggesting specific therapeutic pathways.
Abstract
Background: Past research reports a positive relationship between experience with classic serotonergic psychedelics and nature relatedness (NR). Ho...
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy and Psychedelic Science: A Review and Perspective on Opportunities in Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology
Neurosurgery – December 08, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like Psilocybin are profoundly re-emerging as potential medicine, showing promise for over a dozen neuropsychiatric conditions including severe Mood and Anxiety disorders. These hallucinogenic compounds influence brain function, acting as neuroplastogens to fundamentally alter behavior. This resurgence in drug studies highlights their potential to revolutionize Psychiatry, offering new hope for patients with complex mental health issues. Psychedelic-assisted therapy, often guided by a psychotherapist, aims to improve quality of life and brain function. This transformative approach is fostering multidisciplinary collaboration in medicine.
Abstract
After a decades-long pause, psychedelics are again being intensely investigated for treating a wide range of neuropsychiatric ailments including de...
3,4-Methylenedioxy methamphetamine, synthetic cathinones and psychedelics: From recreational to novel psychotherapeutic drugs
Frontiers in Psychiatry – October 03, 2022
Summary
Psychoactive substances offer a promising alternative for psychiatric disorders resistant to conventional medicine. MDMA, Psilocybin, and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) have shown successful outcomes in clinical tests for conditions like PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. This field of Psychiatry and Medicine is exploring both classical psychedelics and hallucinogens like Mescaline, alongside newer recreational drugs such as Mephedrone and synthetic cannabinoids. Pharmacology and Drug Studies investigate their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. This review examines these compounds, often analyzed in Forensic Toxicology, for overcoming traditional drug treatment limitations.
Abstract
The utility of classical drugs used to treat psychiatric disorders (e.g., antidepressants, anxiolytics) is often limited by issues of lack of effic...
Use of psychedelics in the Czech Republic: results of recent population surveys.
Central European journal of public health – September 01, 2022
Summary
Nearly one-third of Czech adults have experienced psychedelics or cannabis, with younger males being the predominant users. Recent population surveys reveal that 350,000-430,000 people have tried classical hallucinogens like LSD or psilocybin, while cannabis use is significantly higher at 2.1 million users. Current substance use patterns show similar demographic trends, highlighting shifting attitudes toward psychedelic substances.
Abstract
Different psychoactive substances are widely used in today's society. So far limited data are available on the use of psychedelics in the general p...
Predictors of Psychedelic Experience: A Thematic Analysis
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – October 05, 2022
Summary
Nature and music can de-escalate adverse reactions to psychoactive substances like Psilocybin and MDMA. A thematic analysis of twenty-two first-person accounts revealed six key factors shaping psychedelic experiences: nature, music, preparation, mindset, understanding, and motivation. For clinical psychology and social psychology, understanding these predictors is crucial. Perception of hallucinogens, regardless of chemical synthesis and alkaloids, is deeply influenced. This work in Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlights how a careful set of conditions can mitigate harm and influence neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, aiding psychotherapists in harm reduction.
Abstract
Research on the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances is expanding. A limitation within this field is the unpredictability of individual ...