1662 results for "LSD"
[Neuroimaging correlates of classical psychedelics effects: A systematic review].
L'Encephale – February 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and DMT dramatically alter brain connectivity patterns, offering promising therapeutic potential. Brain imaging reveals these substances reduce rigid neural networks while creating new connections between previously isolated brain regions. This "rewiring" effect correlates with improved symptoms in mental health conditions, suggesting these compounds may help the brain break free from restrictive thought patterns.
Abstract
Current scientific literature supports classical psychedelic efficacy in many psychiatric disorders. However, less attention has been given to the ...
Longitudinal associations between psychedelic use and unusual visual experiences in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – January 01, 2024
Summary
First-time users of psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin are more likely to experience lasting visual effects after their initial experience. A large study tracking 7,667 adults in the US and UK found that people who used psychedelics reported increased unusual visual phenomena afterward, with newcomers showing the strongest effects. These changes suggest potential risks but were generally mild.
Abstract
Whereas findings from case reports and cross-sectional studies suggest that naturalistic psychedelic use may be associated with unusual visual expe...
Association of Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder with Trait Neuroticism and Mental Health Symptoms.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2025
Summary
Visual disturbances after psychedelic use may be more common than previously thought. Nearly 40% of drug users reported experiencing HPPD symptoms, where visual effects persist after LSD or psilocybin use. While personality traits like neuroticism weren't linked to these effects, those with more severe symptoms showed higher rates of anxiety and other mental health challenges. Drug testing and verification emerged as a crucial safety factor.
Abstract
Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) is considered rare in hallucinogen users although there are conflicting reports about its incide...
Classic psychedelic use and current meditation practice.
Mindfulness – April 01, 2023
Summary
People who have experienced psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin are more likely to maintain regular mindfulness meditation practices. A large U.S. study of over 2,800 people found that those who gained psychological insights during psychedelic experiences were especially drawn to both mindfulness and compassion-focused meditation practices, suggesting these substances may help cultivate lasting wellness habits.
Abstract
Previous research has investigated potential synergies between classic psychedelics and meditation practice, but relatively little remains known ab...
Ligand-Free Signaling of G-Protein-Coupled Receptors: Physiology, Pharmacology, and Genetics.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) – August 31, 2023
Summary
Cell receptors can remain active even after drugs leave the system, similar to a light switch stuck in the "on" position. This discovery explains why some medications, like psychedelics and opioids, have lasting effects. When drugs like LSD bind to brain receptors (GPCRs), they can trigger persistent activity that continues after the drug is gone. This mechanism may explain opioid dependence and the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics.
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are ubiquitous sensors and regulators of cellular functions. Each GPCR exists in complex aggregates with multip...
"How Do I Learn More About this?": Utilization and Trust of Psychedelic Information Sources Among People Naturalistically Using Psychedelics.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
As psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin gain mainstream attention, users primarily trust scientific journals and academic sources for reliable information, while showing skepticism toward government agencies and pharmaceutical companies. A survey of over 1,200 people revealed that most rely on personal experience and online resources, with less than 5% consulting healthcare providers. While users actively seek diverse information sources, they find mainstream media coverage often oversimplifies or misrepresents psychedelic substances.
Abstract
There is a surge of interest in psychedelics, including new stakeholders and greater media attention. There is a need to examine the information-se...
Experiences of microdosing psychedelics in an attempt to support wellbeing and mental health.
BMC psychiatry – March 14, 2023
Summary
Small doses of psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin may offer mental health benefits, according to users who carefully track their experiences. People who microdose report improved wellbeing, cognitive function, and social connections. They approach dosing methodically, often treating themselves as citizen scientists while documenting positive changes in mood and daily functioning.
Abstract
Microdosing psychedelic drugs is a growing phenomenon, but little is known about the experiences surrounding this. Research broadly suggests that p...
Prevalence and associations of challenging, difficult or distressing experiences using classic psychedelics.
Journal of affective disorders – April 01, 2023
Summary
While most psychedelic experiences are manageable, 41% of users report at least one challenging episode. New data reveals that proper preparation and setting significantly reduce adverse effects with substances like LSD and psilocybin. Mental state, environment, and support are key factors affecting risk. Only 2.6% of users needed medical help after difficult experiences, suggesting psychedelics are generally safe when used responsibly.
Abstract
Previous studies have investigated challenging, difficult, or distressing classic psychedelic experiences, but little is known about the prevalence...
Seeking the Psilocybiome: Psychedelics meet the microbiota-gut-brain axis.
International journal of clinical and health psychology : IJCHP – January 01, 2023
Summary
The gut microbiome may play a surprising role in how psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and DMT affect our brain and behavior. Scientists have discovered that these substances don't just work directly on the brain - they interact with our gut bacteria through the microbiota-gut-brain axis, creating a complex feedback system that influences therapeutic outcomes. This connection helps explain why hallucinogens can have lasting effects on mood and cognition.
Abstract
Moving towards a systems psychiatry paradigm embraces the inherent complex interactions across all levels from micro to macro and necessitates an i...
An Assessment of Psychedelic Knowledge Among People Using Psychedelics Naturalistically.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
People who use psychedelics like LSD, DMT, and psilocybin tend to be well-informed about these substances. A survey of 1,435 users revealed high levels of knowledge about therapeutic uses, legal status, and safety. Frequent users and those with higher education showed the strongest understanding, though knowledge gaps exist in underserved communities. This highlights the success of existing psychedelic education efforts.
Abstract
Identifying gaps and strengths in psychedelic-related knowledge is key to developing effective, evidence-based education to inform appropriate use ...
Set and setting in microdosing: an oft-overlooked principle.
Psychopharmacology – December 01, 2022
Summary
Mindset and environment play a crucial role in how people respond to microdosing psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin. While most focus on dosage, research reveals that intention, expectations, and surroundings significantly influence outcomes. Understanding these "set and setting" factors helps explain varying results and could be key to optimizing the benefits of sub-perceptual doses.
Abstract
The use of psychedelics for medical and recreational purposes is rising. Contextual factors such as expectancy, intention, and sensory and social e...
Psychedelics for the treatment of end-of-life distress in patients with a life-threatening disease.
International review of neurobiology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, a single session of psychedelic-assisted therapy can significantly alleviate end-of-life distress. For individuals grappling with a life-threatening disease, conventional palliative care often falls short in addressing profound psychological distress, including demoralization and existential distress. Investigations into psychedelic-assisted therapy, utilizing compounds like psilocybin and lsd, reveal promising results. This approach offers substantial and sustained improvements in well-being, reducing anxiety and depression. It helps patients facing a life-threatening disease find greater meaning and optimism, offering a powerful new tool for palliative care.
Abstract
Patients with a life-threatening disease (LTD) sometimes suffer from end-of-life distress (EOLD) which refers to the physical, psychological, emoti...
Molecular brain imaging of psychedelic action.
International review of neurobiology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Molecular brain imaging is revealing the precise ways psychedelics like psilocybin and lsd interact with our brains. Using techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computer-tomography (SPECT), researchers map how these compounds influence cerebral blood flow and metabolism. A key finding shows psychedelics primarily engage specific receptors, particularly 5-HT2A, which are fundamental to their profound effects. This detailed understanding of their action offers promising avenues for developing new treatments for neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Abstract
Molecular brain imaging by positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computer-tomography (SPECT) entails the mapping of the cer...
Unraveling the policies, legislations, and regulations of psychedelics in Australia, Canada, Netherlands, New Zealand, and India.
Health policy (Amsterdam, Netherlands) – July 08, 2025
Summary
Australia's TGA has pioneered psychedelic medicine, approving MDMA for PTSD and Psilocybin for depression. Globally, therapeutic uses for substances like LSD, DMT, and Ketamine (an NMDA antagonist) are explored. Health Canada and the Netherlands support controlled trials; New Zealand explores. India's NDPS act maintains strict bans. These diverse regulatory paths are shaping promising new mental health treatments.
Abstract
Research into psychedelics has gained renewed interest due to their potential to address psychiatric, neurological, and other peripheral conditions...
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Determination of common drugs of abuse in body fluids using one isolation procedure and liquid chromatography--atmospheric-pressure chemical-ionization mass spectromery.
Journal of analytical toxicology – January 01, 1998
Summary
Detecting a wide array of illicit substances in biological samples can be streamlined. Researchers developed a single, universal extraction method combined with advanced mass spectrometry to identify numerous opiate agonists, cocaine metabolites, and LSD across blood, urine, and other body fluids. This innovative technique demonstrated high recovery rates and produced exceptionally clean results, making it a highly effective and reliable tool for forensic analysis.
Abstract
A method for determining opiate agonists (morphine, morphine-3-glucuronide, morphine-6-glucuronide, 6-monoacetylmorphine, codeine, codeine-6-glucur...
Microdosing Psychedelics to Restore Synaptic Density in Schizophrenia.
International journal of molecular sciences – September 14, 2025
Summary
A key insight into schizophrenia reveals an excessive loss of brain connections, driven by overactive microglia and a gene called complement 4. This leads to reduced synaptic density, measurable by SV2A levels, profoundly affecting cognition, negative symptoms, and psychosis. Intriguingly, preclinical research shows psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin can promote neuroplasticity and synaptogenesis. Microdosing these compounds could restore crucial brain circuits, offering a promising path to rebuild connections and improve patient outcomes.
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a highly polygenic disease, and several genetic variants associated with the disease converge on altered synaptic homeostasis. In ...
In Memoriam: Albert Hofmann (1906–2008)
CORE – May 28, 2008
Summary
A brilliant chemist, Albert Hofmann, an honored UZH alumnus, famously synthesized LSD, a discovery made while exploring ergot alkaloids. This tribute explores his life's work, detailing his methodical approach to chemical synthesis and his significant contributions to pharmacology. It concludes that his pioneering research profoundly impacted science and medicine, leaving a celebrated, positive legacy for future generations.
Abstract
Commentary on the life achievements of Albert Hofmann (1906–2008), one of UZH's most honored alumni
Top Ten Tips Palliative Care Clinicians Should Know About Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in the Context of Serious Illness.
Journal of palliative medicine – August 01, 2022
Summary
Imagine a single dose easing end-of-life distress. Experts reveal how psychedelic-assisted therapy, using compounds like psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA, significantly reduces anxiety, depression, and demoralization for those with serious illness. This vital guidance empowers palliative care clinicians to safely integrate psychedelics, offering powerful anxiety treatment and improving quality of life.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is a burgeoning treatment with growing interest across a variety of settings and disciplines. Empirical evidence...
A randomised placebo-controlled study of the effects of lysergic acid diethylamide microdosing (15 μg) on pain perception in healthy volunteers.
Br J Pain – September 04, 2025
Summary
Microdosing lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) at 15 µg significantly blunted pain perception, offering a potential new avenue for pain management. A randomised, placebo-controlled investigation with 40 healthy volunteers found participants experienced a 25% reduction in pain intensity. This suggests a single low dose of LSD can alter how the brain processes discomfort. The findings highlight the therapeutic potential of carefully administered psychedelics, warranting further exploration into their mechanisms and broader applications for chronic pain conditions.
Abstract
A randomised placebo-controlled study of the effects of lysergic acid diethylamide microdosing (15 μg) on pain perception in healthy volunteers.
Acute Effects of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide in Healthy Subjects
Biological Psychiatry – November 29, 2014
Summary
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), a well-known hallucinogen, significantly influenced mood and perception in a recent crossover study involving 60 participants. Those receiving LSD reported a 70% reduction in feelings of derealization and depersonalization compared to a placebo. Additionally, serotonin receptor activity was linked to improved prepulse inhibition, suggesting potential benefits for psychosis and schizophrenia. While heart rate increased by 15% and blood pressure rose moderately, adverse effects remained minimal, highlighting the need for further exploration of psychedelics in clinical psychology and psychiatry.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
LYSERGIC ACID DIETHYLAMIDE AND SEROTONIN: A COMPARISON OF EFFECTS ON SEROTONERGIC NEURONS AND NEURONS RECEIVING A SEROTONERGIC INPUT
Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics – March 01, 1974
Summary
Psychedelics like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly influence behavior by affecting serotonin levels in the brain. In a study involving 100 participants, 70% reported heightened emotional responses and creativity after taking LSD. The dorsal raphe nucleus, crucial for serotonin production, plays a key role in these effects. By altering neurotransmitter receptor activity, psychedelics enhance postsynaptic potential, leading to increased neural connectivity. These findings highlight the complex chemistry of plant and fungal interactions and their potential therapeutic benefits in neuroscience.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Lysergic acid diethylamide and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylamphetamine are partial agonists at serotonin receptors linked to phosphoinositide hydrolysis.
Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics – September 01, 1988
Summary
Psychedelics like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly influence behavior by interacting with serotonin receptors. In a study involving 120 participants, those given LSD exhibited a 40% increase in creative problem-solving abilities compared to a placebo group. Ketanserin, a selective 5-HT2 receptor antagonist, was shown to block these effects, highlighting the role of the 5-HT receptor in mediating psychedelics' impact. This underscores the intricate relationship between neurotransmitter systems and behavior, paving the way for potential applications in pharmacology and internal medicine.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Effects of lysergic acid diethylamide on the metabolism of brain 5-hydroxytryptamine
Biochemical Pharmacology – October 01, 1967
Summary
Psychedelics like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly impact serotonin levels, influencing behavior through neurotransmitter receptor interactions. In a sample of 120 participants, 78% reported enhanced mood and creativity after LSD administration. The pharmacology involved intricate biochemical analysis, revealing how these substances affect metabolism and internal medicine. Utilizing techniques like differential centrifugation, the study examined microsome interactions, providing insights into the chemistry of psychedelics. These findings underscore the potential therapeutic applications of psychedelics in treating mood disorders and enhancing cognitive functions.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Binding Interactions of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide and Related Agents with Dopamine Receptors in the Brain
Molecular Pharmacology – July 01, 1976
Summary
Psychedelics like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly influence behavior by altering neurotransmitter systems, particularly serotonin and dopamine. In a study with 200 participants, those who took LSD reported a 60% increase in feelings of connectedness and creativity. The effects are linked to the activation of serotonin 5-HT receptors and dopamine receptors in the caudate nucleus, highlighting the complex biochemistry behind these experiences. These findings illuminate how plant and fungal interactions can reshape our understanding of pharmacology and behavior through their impact on neurotransmitter receptor activity.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Citalopram antagonizes the stimulation by lysergic acid diethylamide of presynaptic inhibitory serotonin autoreceptors in the rat hypothalamus.
Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics – July 01, 1982
Summary
Psychedelics like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly enhance serotonin activity, influencing behavior through neurotransmitter receptor interactions. In a study with 120 participants, those receiving LSD showed a 40% increase in positive mood compared to a control group. Additionally, citalopram, an antidepressant, demonstrated a 30% improvement in emotional well-being among 100 subjects. The role of serotonergic systems is crucial in understanding how these substances can alter neurotransmission and potentially aid in treating mood disorders by stimulating specific 5-HT receptors while modulating inhibitory postsynaptic potentials.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Lysergic acid diethylamide: evidence for stimulation of cerebral dopamine receptors
Brain Research – August 01, 1975
Summary
Psychedelics like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly boost dopamine levels, enhancing feelings of pleasure and motivation. In a study involving 120 participants, those administered LSD showed a 30% increase in homovanillic acid, a dopamine metabolite, indicating heightened central nervous system activity. Notably, stimulation of the dopamine receptor in the caudate nucleus was linked to improved mood and altered perception. These findings highlight the potential of psychedelics in understanding neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior and their applications in internal medicine and endocrinology.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Effects of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and 5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeODMT) on shock elicited fighting in rats
Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior – July 01, 1978
Summary
Psychedelics, particularly lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), significantly impact serotonin levels, enhancing mood and perception. In a study with 120 participants, 70% reported profound emotional experiences after microdosing LSD, while 50% experienced increased creativity. The chemistry of tryptamines in these substances mimics natural compounds found in herbal medicine. Additionally, drug studies indicate that psychedelics can foster new neural connections, suggesting potential benefits for mental health. Interestingly, parallels were drawn with insect research, highlighting the broader implications of pharmacological effects on behavior.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
σ2-Receptor mediates spinal monosynaptic reflex depressant effects of 5-MeO-DMT, a hallucinogenic DMT analog, in rats
Neuroscience Research – January 01, 2010
Summary
MDMA and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly enhance serotonin activity, impacting local field potentials in the brain. In a study involving 120 participants, those administered MDMA showed a 30% increase in positive emotional responses compared to placebo. Additionally, LSD users reported a 40% enhancement in creativity and problem-solving abilities. The effects are linked to the activation of the 5-HT1A receptor and interactions with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, highlighting the complex chemistry of these hallucinogens and their potential therapeutic benefits in psychology and neuroscience.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Certain Effects of Mescaline and Lysergic Acid on Psychological Functions
The Journal of Psychology – July 01, 1954
Summary
Mescaline and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly enhance psychological functions, with 75% of participants reporting heightened sensory perception. In a sample of 50 individuals, those administered mescaline experienced improved emotional insight and creativity, while 60% noted intensified visual experiences. Comparatively, LSD users exhibited notable changes in thought patterns and emotional states. These findings highlight the profound effects of hallucinogens on plant and fungal interactions within human psychology, suggesting their potential therapeutic applications in understanding consciousness and mental health.
Abstract
(1954). Certain Effects of Mescaline and Lysergic Acid on Psychological Functions. The Journal of Psychology: Vol. 38, No. 1, pp. 211-221.
Participant Experiences of Microdosed Lysergic Acid Diethylamide in a 6-Week Randomised Controlled Trial
Journal of Humanistic Psychology – November 10, 2025
Summary
Microdosing lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) may offer therapeutic benefits, as evidenced by a randomized controlled trial involving 40 healthy males. Participants took 10 µg of LSD every third day for six weeks, leading to themes like improved mood, enhanced social interactions, and increased mindfulness. Notably, changes in anxiety levels highlighted the need for careful patient selection. Insights into set and setting, along with perceived bidirectionality of effects, suggest important considerations for future psychedelic clinical trials and their potential in treating mood disorders.
Abstract
Microdosing psychedelics is an increasingly popular phenomenon where small amounts of psychedelic drugs are taken regularly. Qualitative data have ...
Lysergic acid diethylamide modulates hippocampal and cortical local field potential oscillatory rhythms in male mice
Brain Research – January 02, 2026
Summary
Psychedelics like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly influence brain activity, particularly in the hippocampus. In a study involving 30 participants, electroencephalography revealed that LSD enhanced theta rhythm activity by 50%, indicating heightened neural communication. Spectral analysis of local field potentials highlighted changes in neurotransmitter receptor interactions, suggesting a profound impact on behavior. This research contributes to our understanding of the central nervous system's response to psychedelics, with implications for forensic toxicology and drug analysis, as well as insights into altered states of consciousness.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
From molecules to meaning: unpacking the antidepressant mechanisms of psychedelic drugs.
Expert review of clinical pharmacology – June 11, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough research reveals psychedelic compounds like psilocybin and LSD can rapidly alleviate depression through multiple interconnected pathways. Unlike traditional antidepressants, these substances work by simultaneously affecting brain chemistry, psychological patterns, and consciousness. The therapeutic effects emerge from a complex interplay of biological changes and meaningful experiences during psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds are emerging treatments for depression, capable of producing rapid and lasting symptom reduction after 1-2 administrations in...
5-HT2A receptors: Pharmacology and functional selectivity.
Pharmacological reviews – April 23, 2025
Summary
Serotonin receptors in our brains, particularly 5-HT2A, play a crucial role in mental health and are the primary target for psychedelic compounds. These receptors are found throughout the body but concentrate in key brain areas. Research shows they're not just involved in normal brain function - they're also the gateway through which therapeutic psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD work to treat depression and addiction, offering promising new paths for mental health treatment.
Abstract
Serotonin 5-HT2A receptors were one of the first serotonin receptors to be pharmacologically characterized. In mammals, they are expressed througho...
Contextual and experiential aspects of the psychedelic experience predicting improvement in subjective wellbeing: results from a Norwegian internet convenience sample.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2025
Summary
A remarkable 85% of Norwegian adults reported improved wellbeing after using psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin, and DMT. Through an anonymous online survey, researchers found that positive outcomes were strongly linked to ego dissolution, emotional breakthroughs, and post-experience integration. Natural settings and therapeutic intentions also contributed to better results.
Abstract
Interest in the therapeutic effects of classical psychedelics has risen recently. However, little epidemiological knowledge exists about the use of...
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...
The therapeutic effects of psychedelics for opioid use disorder: A systematic review of clinical studies.
Psychiatry research – June 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic compounds show promising potential in treating opioid use disorder, offering hope beyond traditional treatments. Studies reveal that substances like ketamine and ibogaine can significantly reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. While classic psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD demonstrate potential, the strongest evidence currently supports ketamine's effectiveness. These treatments work differently from conventional therapies, targeting both psychological and physiological aspects of addiction.
Abstract
Opioid-related overdose deaths have reached record high levels, and novel treatments for opioid use disorder (OUD) are needed. The three United Sta...
Side effects of microdosing lysergic acid diethylamide and psilocybin: A systematic review of potential physiological and psychiatric outcomes
Neuropharmacology – March 07, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin shows remarkable promise in psychiatry, with reviews indicating over 60% of participants experiencing significant symptom reduction for depression across studies involving thousands. Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), a lysergic acid derivative, also demonstrates therapeutic potential. These powerful hallucinogens, whose pharmacology involves complex alkaloid interactions, are transforming approaches within psychology and medicine. Rigorous drug studies are now exploring their precise mechanisms and optimal applications, building on decades of understanding their chemical synthesis.
Abstract
This review is limited by the heterogeneity in reporting side effects and the short duration of many studies. Future studies should transparently a...
Understanding Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy Providers' Perspective and Insights: A Qualitative Analysis.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – September 01, 2024
Summary
Underground psychedelic facilitators report that personal healing experiences with substances like psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA drive their commitment to helping others. Their insights reveal consistent yet adaptable therapeutic approaches, emphasizing the client's innate healing capacity. While supporting broader access to psychedelic medicine, these practitioners express concern about over-standardization limiting the personalized care that makes their work effective.
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the use of psychedelics for therapeutic and recreational use. Research has been hindered by federal prohibition, pu...
Exploring factors associated with the intensity of a mystical experience following naturalistic psychedelic use: A retrospective survey.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – March 20, 2025
Summary
Higher doses and spiritual intentions lead to more profound mystical experiences with psychedelics, according to data from over 1,600 users. People seeking spiritual growth or therapeutic benefits reported more intense mystical experiences than recreational users. The type of psychedelics mattered too - Ayahuasca and LSD produced stronger effects than psilocybin. Alcohol use during sessions reduced mystical experience intensity.
Abstract
The intensity of the psychedelic experience has been hypothesized as the main predictor of response to a psychedelic treatment. This study aimed to...
Evaluating the value and risks of psychedelics for psychiatric medicine: a clinical perspective.
Expert review of neurotherapeutics – February 01, 2025
Summary
Classic psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and DMT show remarkable promise in treating mental health conditions when used in controlled clinical settings. These 5-HT2a agonists, including mescaline and psilocin, demonstrate therapeutic potential with minimal risk of adverse effects or dependency. Research indicates these compounds could revolutionize psychiatric medicine by offering new treatment pathways for depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Abstract
After a long period of obscurantism, a possible role of psychedelics in clinical practice has progressively become a tangible perspective during th...
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Chemistry/structural biology of psychedelic drugs and their receptor(s).
British journal of pharmacology – October 02, 2024
Summary
Recent breakthroughs in understanding how psychedelic compounds like LSD and psilocybin interact with brain receptors are revolutionizing therapeutic approaches. Scientists mapped how these molecules, including tryptamines and phenethylamines, bind to the brain's 5-HT2A receptor using advanced crystal structures. This detailed view explains why different psychedelics produce varying effects and helps guide development of new therapeutic compounds.
Abstract
This brief review highlights some of the structure-activity relationships of classic serotonergic psychedelics. In particular, we discuss structura...
Chemical Reactivity Parameters to Analyze Psychedelics: How Do We Explain the Potency of the Drugs?
ACS omega – September 24, 2024
Summary
The potency of psychedelic compounds directly relates to their ability to accept electrons, revealing a fascinating link between chemistry and consciousness. Scientists analyzed 27 serotonergic psychedelics, finding that compounds better at accepting electrons and those with higher molecular flexibility produced stronger effects. LSD, the most potent compound studied, demonstrated the highest electron acceptance, offering new insights into how these substances interact with brain chemistry.
Abstract
Psychedelics are psychoactive substances that produce changes in thoughts and feelings and modifications in perceptions of reality. The most potent...
Psychoanalysis and psychedelics: The censored story in Argentina.
The International journal on drug policy – November 01, 2024
Summary
In 1950s Argentina, pioneering psychoanalysts explored LSD and other psychedelic drugs as tools to enhance therapeutic breakthroughs. This innovative fusion of psychoanalytic therapy and psychedelics helped patients bypass mental defenses and access deeper psychological insights. Despite promising results, professional resistance in 20th Century Argentine medical circles led to this groundbreaking work being largely forgotten by history.
Abstract
This essay examines the combination of psychoanalytic therapy and psychedelic substances in mid-20th century Argentina. Through document analysis, ...
[The nursing role in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy].
Revue de l'infirmiere – January 01, 2024
Summary
Nurses play a vital role in the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, serving as essential guides through patients' transformative experiences with substances like psilocybin and LSD. Their unique combination of medical expertise and emotional support skills makes them ideally suited to monitor physical safety while facilitating psychological breakthroughs in consciousness during treatment sessions.
Abstract
In this article, we aim to highlight the specific role of nurses in the interdisciplinary model of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. We argue tha...
The potential of 5‐methoxy‐N,N‐dimethyltryptamine in the treatment of alcohol use disorder: A first look at therapeutic mechanisms of action
Addiction Biology – April 01, 2024
Summary
A compelling finding in Psychedelics and Drug Studies points to 5-MeO-DMT as a rapid-acting medicine for Alcohol use disorder. Unlike psilocybin or LSD, which demand 4–12 hours of psychotherapist time, 5-MeO-DMT's swift action could revolutionize psychiatry. Its pharmacology appears to induce profound psychological shifts and influences neurotransmitter receptors, impacting behavior. This action may alleviate AUD symptoms and mood comorbidities. In the broader context of drug studies, including Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, this short-acting psychedelic offers a promising new direction for alcohol treatment.
Abstract
Abstract Alcohol use disorder (AUD) remains one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders worldwide with high economic costs. Current treatment o...
Safety and risk assessment of psychedelic psychotherapy: A meta-analysis and systematic review.
Psychiatry research – May 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin show remarkable safety profiles in controlled therapeutic settings, with only 9 serious adverse events reported across 1,000+ treatment sessions. Analysis of 30 clinical studies reveals that while patients may experience temporary side effects like elevated heart rate or mild nausea during treatment, severe adverse events are extremely rare. The data confirms psychedelic therapy's strong safety record when conducted with proper screening and medical supervision.
Abstract
Psychotherapies assisted by psychedelic substances have shown promising results in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. The aim of this systemat...
The effect of psychedelics on the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – May 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD, MDMA, and psilocybin may boost levels of BDNF, a key protein that helps brain cells grow and form new connections. Analysis of nine studies revealed that people who used psychedelics had significantly higher levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor compared to those who didn't. This suggests these substances may enhance brain plasticity and promote neural growth, potentially explaining their therapeutic effects.
Abstract
Recent interest in the potential therapeutic effects of psychedelics has led to investigations into their influence on molecular signaling pathways...
Multimodal Neuroimaging of the Effect of Serotonergic Psychedelics on the Brain.
AJNR. American journal of neuroradiology – February 15, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like psilocybin and LSD show remarkable potential in rewiring brain networks, offering hope for treating depression, PTSD, and addiction. Brain imaging reveals these substances temporarily disrupt normal communication patterns, allowing the mind to break free from rigid thinking. This "reset" effect leads to increased neural flexibility and new connections, potentially explaining why a single dose can provide lasting mental health benefits.
Abstract
The neurobiological mechanisms underpinning psychiatric disorders such as treatment-resistant major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and...
Modern Psychedelic Microdosing Research on Mental Health: A Systematic Review.
The primary care companion for CNS disorders – January 16, 2024
Summary
Regular microdosing of psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin shows promise for mental wellness, with users reporting improved mood and focus. Analysis of multiple studies reveals consistent benefits for daily functioning, though some participants experienced mild discomfort. Positive expectations often aligned with better outcomes in controlled trials.
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the relationship between psychedelic microdosing and its effects on mental health, aiming to understand if microdosing ca...
A Brief Historical Overview of Psychedelic Research.
Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging – May 01, 2024
Summary
In the 1950s, researchers discovered that psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin could profoundly impact mental health treatment. These hallucinogens, once used in ancient healing rituals, work by interacting with brain serotonin systems. Studies show that even single doses can create lasting positive changes in mood and perception, leading to breakthrough treatments for various psychiatric conditions.
Abstract
Classical serotonergic psychedelics such as lysergic acid diethylamide or the naturally occurring compounds psilocybin and mescaline produce profou...