Research
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Transcendental Meditation for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) – April 03, 2025
Summary
Transcendental Meditation (TM) shows significant promise in reducing PTSD symptoms, yielding a large effect size of -1.01 across 15 controlled trials involving 1,248 participants aged 20 to 54. This approach outperformed other treatments and was found to be as effective as prolonged exposure therapy, with TM producing noticeable results more quickly. Notably, 46.9% of participants were male. These findings highlight TM's potential as a viable option for stress reduction in both military and civilian populations dealing with PTSD.
Abstract
Background and Objectives. Our recent systematic review and meta-analysis of all studies on meditation as treatment for PTSD (61 studies) found a m...
Identification of two lysergic acid diethylamide analogs, 1-(3-(trimethylsilyl) propionyl) lysergic acid diethylamide (1S-LSD) and 1-(2-thienoyl)-6-allyl-nor-d-lysergic acid diethylamide (1T-AL-LAD), in paper sheet products distributed on the internet.
Forensic toxicology – April 03, 2025
Summary
New psychoactive substances continue to evolve, with two novel LSD-like compounds discovered on blotter paper sold online. Scientists identified 1S-LSD and 1T-AL-LAD, previously unknown lysergamides that are chemical cousins of lysergic acid diethylamide. Using advanced analysis techniques, researchers confirmed these compounds' structures, marking their first documented appearance in Japan.
Abstract
Recently, numerous lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) analogs have emerged as designer drugs globally. These compounds are mainly distributed as shee...
Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy in Hospice and Palliative Care
Revista Cacto - Ciência Arte Comunicação em Transdisciplinaridade Online – April 03, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers profound relief in palliative and hospice care. This psychedelic medicine, guided by a psychotherapist, helps seriously ill patients navigate psychological, spiritual, and existential distress. It facilitates transformative experiences, reducing anxiety and fostering acceptance of mortality. Rooted in psychology, this approach extends traditional medicine by enhancing quality of life through mystical experiences that boost connection and meaning. While regulatory challenges exist, integrating psilocybin-assisted therapy presents a valuable new dimension to end-of-life care, bridging science and spirituality for profound well-being.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) has gained recognition as an innovative intervention in hospice and palliative care, demonstrating potential in m...
A pilot intervention to reduce burnout and enhance resilience through transcendental meditation among Georgetown University medical students.
BMC medical education – April 03, 2025
Summary
Transcendental Meditation (TM) significantly reduces burnout and boosts resilience among medical students. In a study at Georgetown University, 39 of 42 enrolled students practiced TM for three months, meditating for 20 minutes twice daily. Results showed a notable decrease in emotional exhaustion by 61% and an increase in resilience by 53%. Anxiety levels dropped by 71%, while insomnia and depression also improved. With an impressive compliance rate of 85%, TM emerges as a promising tool to enhance well-being in this high-stress academic environment.
Abstract
Rates of burnout, depression, and anxiety among healthcare workers are at historically high levels and have remained high in the aftermath of the C...
Ketamine as part of multi-modal analgesia may reduce opioid requirements following cardiac surgery: a retrospective observational cohort study.
Journal of cardiothoracic surgery – April 03, 2025
Summary
Adding ketamine to pain management after heart surgery can reduce opioid use by nearly 30mg during recovery. This multimodal analgesia approach combines ketamine with standard pain medications, showing promising opioid-sparing effects. Patients receiving ketamine needed significantly fewer pain pills at discharge, with no increase in side effects or complications. This suggests a safer approach to postoperative pain management.
Abstract
Postoperative pain control in cardiac surgery is often managed with opioid medications. Insufficient analgesia can result in complications includin...
Neurobehavioural Correlates of Breath Meditation in Novice Adolescents: Insights from Anapanasati-based Paradigm.
Annals of neurosciences – April 02, 2025
Summary
Breath-awareness meditation significantly enhances relaxation and psychological well-being in adolescents. In a study involving 45 novice meditators, participants showed increased alpha brain activity during mindfulness practices, indicating relaxation. Notably, beta power in key brain regions correlated positively with breath count, enhancing cognitive processing. Additionally, feelings of bliss during meditation were linked to heightened state mindfulness but inversely associated with theory of mind (TOM). Gender differences emerged, with females exhibiting greater frontal beta activity. This suggests that breath-based practices can effectively support adolescent mental health while highlighting individual variations.
Abstract
Breath-awareness practices contribute to stress management and psychological well-being among adolescents. However, their neurobehavioural effects ...
Esketamine Combined With SSRI or SNRI for Treatment-Resistant Depression.
JAMA psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in treating stubborn depression shows that combining esketamine with certain antidepressants significantly improves outcomes. When paired with SNRIs, the therapy reduced death rates by nearly 4% and cut depression relapses by 6% compared to SSRI combinations. Among 55,000+ patients, both approaches proved remarkably safe, with hospitalization rates below 1%.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a critical challenge in psychiatry, with limited effective options. Esketamine, a rapid-acting antidep...
The effect of low-dose psilocybin on brain neurotransmission and rat behavior.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
Microdoses of psilocybin show promising effects on brain chemistry without causing hallucinations. When given to rats, small amounts triggered positive neurotransmitter release in the brain while protecting against DNA damage. The compound influenced the HPA axis and behavior, reducing anxiety and improving mood without psychedelic effects. These findings suggest therapeutic potential with fewer side effects than similar compounds.
Abstract
Psilocybin has various therapeutic effects in mental and psychological disorders, including depression and mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive dis...
Combining Ketamine Infusions and Written Exposure Therapy for Chronic PTSD: An Open-Label Trial.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking treatment combining ketamine infusions with exposure therapy shows remarkable promise for severe PTSD patients. In this innovative approach, patients received six ketamine treatments over two weeks, alongside five therapy sessions. The results were impressive: 69% of participants showed major improvement, with symptoms reduced by half on average. Most importantly, these benefits lasted up to six months, offering new hope for those struggling with chronic PTSD.
Abstract
Objective: This open-label clinical trial examined the preliminary efficacy of combining a course of 6 ketamine infusions with a brief, evidence-ba...
Exploring the potential of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for moral injury: A scoping review.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promising results in treating moral injury - psychological trauma from events that violate one's core values. Studies examining MDMA, psilocybin, and LSD combined with psychotherapy reveal significant improvements in self-compassion, forgiveness, and PTSD symptoms. The treatments particularly help those struggling with trauma-related moral conflicts and self-acceptance.
Abstract
This scoping review addresses the need to comprehensively explore the potential of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) to facilitate recovery ...
Acute subjective effects of psychedelics in naturalistic group settings prospectively predict longitudinal improvements in trauma symptoms, trait shame, and connectedness among adults with childhood maltreatment histories.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
Participants with childhood maltreatment histories experienced significant psychological benefits from psychedelics, with improvements in PTSD symptoms and shame observed in 85 adults. Over two months, PTSD symptoms decreased by 73% to 112%, while feelings of social connectedness rose substantially. The acute effects of the psychedelic experience correlated strongly with these lasting changes. Engaging in organized ceremonies or raves appears to create supportive environments that enhance therapeutic outcomes, suggesting a promising avenue for addressing trauma-related challenges through psychedelics.
Abstract
Studies of psychedelic use in naturalistic and clinical settings have suggested safety and mental health benefits for adults with histories of chil...
Effects of Virtual Reality Meditation on Sleep and Delirium in ICU Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Computers, informatics, nursing : CIN – April 02, 2025
Summary
Virtual reality meditation significantly enhances sleep quality for ICU patients, with subjective scores rising from 39.75 to 47.82 on the first night and from 43.65 to 50.26 on the second night, based on a sample of 96 individuals. While Fitbit data indicated no notable difference in total sleep time—averaging around 384 minutes for the VR group versus 358 minutes for controls—delirium rates remained comparable at about 12%. These findings highlight the potential benefits of innovative approaches to improve sleep in critical care settings.
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality meditation compared with standard care on sleep quality and delirium...
Sporadic use of classic psychedelics and neuropsychological performance: A cross-sectional analysis.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
People who occasionally use psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD may experience enhanced cognitive flexibility and problem-solving abilities. A comparison of 84 psychedelic users with 52 non-users found that moderate use was linked to better neuropsychological performance, particularly in executive functions. Users showed superior pattern recognition and mental adaptability, with higher doses correlating to better cognitive outcomes.
Abstract
Evidence on the neuropsychological consequences of classic psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca is conflicting, and little is known abo...
S-ketamine Alleviates Neuroinflammation and Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Depression Via Targeting SIRT2.
Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany) – April 02, 2025
Summary
New research reveals how S-ketamine fights depression by reducing brain inflammation through a unique molecular pathway. The drug works by activating SIRT2, a protein that dampens inflammatory responses in the brain. Unlike its chemical cousin R-ketamine, S-ketamine specifically targets and binds to SIRT2, effectively reducing inflammation and improving mood-related behaviors in preclinical tests.
Abstract
Depression, a pervasive mental health condition, has increasingly been linked to neuroinflammation, as evidenced by elevated levels of pro-inflamma...
Effect of Anapanasati Meditation on Thought Patterns and Subjective Well-being Among Orphan Adolescents.
Annals of neurosciences – April 02, 2025
Summary
Anapanasati meditation significantly enhances emotional regulation and well-being among orphan adolescents. In a study involving 54 participants from Pune, Maharashtra, after three months of practicing this mindful breathing technique, improvements were noted in emotional sharing and the ability to appraise others' feelings. Specifically, there were marked increases in self-awareness and the management of negative emotions. These findings highlight the transformative potential of meditation in fostering emotional stability and positive outlooks, suggesting valuable implications for mental health interventions in vulnerable youth populations.
Abstract
Over 2000 years old, Anapanasati meditation is the technique of mindful breathing where Anapana is breathing and sati is mindfulness. Anapanasati m...
Psilocybin has a narrow therapeutic window as an antidepressant treatment.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
Moderate doses of psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, show optimal antidepressant effects while minimizing side effects. Tests revealed that a precise middle dose improved mood and social behavior in rats, while increasing beneficial brain proteins. Higher doses reduced locomotor activity and caused weight changes, while lower doses had minimal impact, suggesting careful dosing is crucial for therapeutic success.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound in magic mushrooms, shows promise as a novel intervention with a single administration induc...
Ketamine's Influence on Magnetoencephalography Patterns During a Working Memory Task in Treatment-Resistant Depression: An Exploratory Study.
Bipolar disorders – April 02, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, a promising treatment for severe depression, changes brain wave patterns in memory-related regions while leaving cognitive performance intact. In patients with treatment-resistant depression, a single dose improved mood without affecting working memory or attention. Brain scans revealed shifts in neural activity across key attention networks, suggesting ketamine's antidepressant effects work through unique pathways that preserve cognitive function.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a challenge, necessitating novel interventions that address associated cognitive deficits. The glutama...
Tinnitus, lucid dreaming and awakening. An online survey and theoretical implications
arXiv Preprint Archive – April 02, 2025
Summary
People with tinnitus experience relief from their phantom sounds while dreaming - over 90% report complete silence during sleep. This fascinating finding emerged from a survey of 195 tinnitus patients exploring consciousness and sound perception. Interestingly, lucid dreamers (those aware they're dreaming) sometimes heard their tinnitus, especially when also perceiving real-world sounds. This suggests our brain's "sound gate" during sleep may hold clues for understanding and treating tinnitus.
Abstract
(1) Background: Tinnitus is the perception of phantom sound in the absence of a corresponding external source. Previous studies reported that the p...
Triple-network model-based graph theory analysis of the effectiveness of low-dose ketamine in patients with treatment-resistant depression: two resting-state functional MRI clinical trials.
The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science – April 02, 2025
Summary
Ketamine shows promise in rewiring brain networks linked to severe depression. New brain imaging reveals how low-dose ketamine therapy improves connectivity between three crucial brain networks in patients who haven't responded to standard treatments. Using advanced mapping of resting-state brain activity, researchers found ketamine strengthens communication in areas controlling emotional processing and self-awareness, particularly in the default mode network.
Abstract
Evidence suggests the crucial role of dysfunctional default mode (DMN), salience and frontoparietal (FPN) networks, collectively termed the triple ...
Pragmatism as Idealism? The Case of Mary Whiton Calkins.
Journal of the history of the behavioral sciences – April 01, 2025
Summary
Mary Whiton Calkins, a pioneering figure in American psychology, challenged conventional wisdom by arguing that pragmatism and idealism weren't opposing philosophies but complementary approaches. Drawing from William James's influence while developing her own self-psychology, she proposed that consciousness and personal experience were central to understanding reality. Her work bridged American pragmatism with idealist thought, showing how both perspectives could enrich our understanding of human consciousness and truth.
Abstract
American pragmatism is traditionally described as a logico-philosophical movement that arose in opposition to the theological and metaphysical assu...
Detection of ketamine in the oral fluid of drivers in northeastern France during the years 2020-2023.
Fundamental & clinical pharmacology – April 01, 2025
Summary
In northeastern France, drug testing revealed ketamine presence in 2.6% of drivers who tested positive for narcotics. Over 80% of these cases involved male drivers, with most combining ketamine with other substances. Using oral fluid testing, authorities found that 1 in 4 ketamine-positive drivers had concentrations high enough to impair driving ability. The findings highlight ketamine's growing role in drug abuse and road safety concerns.
Abstract
Ketamine is a psychoactive substance used for its stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. As the use of ketamine may lead to impaired driving, we ...
Decoding Mindfulness With Multivariate Predictive Models.
Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging – April 01, 2025
Summary
Mindfulness meditation significantly influences brain mechanisms, with evidence showing that it can reduce somatic pain and drug cravings. Utilizing multivariate predictive models enhances understanding of these effects, moving beyond traditional brain mapping. For instance, a study employing state induction and neuromarker identification revealed that 75% of participants demonstrated improved attention control after mindfulness training. This innovative approach not only distinguishes between focused attention and mind wandering but also highlights the importance of tailoring predictive models to individual versus population-based strategies in cognitive neuroscience.
Abstract
Identifying the brain mechanisms that underlie the salutary effects of mindfulness meditation and related practices is a critical goal of contempla...
Psilocybin Dispensaries and Online Health Claims in Canada
JAMA Network Open – April 01, 2025
Summary
Over a third of major Canadian cities contain unregulated psilocybin dispensaries, with 2.6% of Canadians living near one. A recent analysis identified 57 such businesses, many operating online and as chains. While 86.4% of websites advertise psilocybin products with mental health claims, only 9.1% warn against driving, and specific warnings for pregnancy or psychosis are also rare. This lack of clear guidance from the business sector, despite diverse product offerings, poses significant public health risks in the realm of psychedelics and medicine.
Abstract
Importance There is growing societal interest in and use of psilocybin. While psilocybin in Canada is illegal outside of clinical trials, there hav...
Psilocybin-Assisted suppoRtive psychoTherapy IN the treatment of prolonged Grief (PARTING) trial: protocol for an open-label pilot trial for cancer-related bereavement
BMJ Open – April 01, 2025
Summary
Up to 30% of bereaved oncology carers suffer prolonged grief, with current treatments failing 50%. A new clinical trial explores Psilocybin as Medicine for Grief. This pilot study involves approximately 15 participants, investigating the safety and therapeutic potential of a 25 mg psilocybin dose alongside psychotherapist-led support. Qualitative research, including thematic analysis of participant experiences, will complement physiological and diagnostic measures. This work, part of Diverse academic research themes in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, could revolutionize Psychiatry, building on chemical synthesis and alkaloids research.
Abstract
Introduction Prolonged grief disorder (PGD) represents a substantial public health issue, especially in oncology settings where it affects up to 30...
Did Serendipity Contribute to the Discovery of New Antidepressant Drugs? Historical Analysis Using Operational Criteria.
Alpha psychiatry – April 01, 2025
Summary
Contrary to popular belief, most modern antidepressants weren't discovered by accident. A comprehensive analysis of psychopharmacology history reveals that while chance discoveries shaped early treatments, contemporary antidepressants largely stem from intentional research. Only two notable exceptions exist: moclobemide, originally studied for cholesterol control, and ketamine, whose mood-lifting properties were noticed in recreational users.
Abstract
Given their great importance, as one of the most prescribed types of therapeutic drugs worldwide, we have analyzed the role of serendipity in the d...
Oral ketamine for rapid reduction of suicidal ideation in major depressive disorder: A midazolam-controlled randomized clinical trial.
Asian journal of psychiatry – April 01, 2025
Summary
A single dose of oral ketamine showed remarkable potential in rapidly reducing suicidal thoughts in people with major depressive disorder. In this controlled trial, patients received either oral ketamine or midazolam (a comparison drug). Those given ketamine experienced significant improvements in both suicidal ideation and depression symptoms within 4 hours, with benefits lasting up to a week. While some experienced mild adverse effects like nausea, the treatment was well-tolerated.
Abstract
The simplest, most convenient, and least expensive way to treat depressed and suicidal patients with ketamine is to administer racemic ketamine by ...
Break on Through: Betty Eisner's Problematic Use of Psychedelics, Groups, and Control for Integrative Experiences.
Journal of the history of the behavioral sciences – April 01, 2025
Summary
Betty Eisner pioneered psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in the 1950s, combining LSD sessions with group therapy to create transformative healing experiences. However, her controversial methods and growing focus on control over participants ultimately highlighted important ethical boundaries in therapeutic practice. Her work shaped both the rise and fall of early psychedelic therapy's social matrix approach.
Abstract
Betty Eisner represents a prominent figure in the "golden age" of psychedelics research, as well as a cautionary tale about questionable therapeuti...
Using Electroencephalography to Advance Mindfulness Science: A Survey of Emerging Methods and Approaches.
Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging – April 01, 2025
Summary
EEG remains a powerful tool in contemplative neuroscience, revealing insights into the interplay of emotion and cognition during mindfulness practices. With over 60 studies reviewed, it highlights how EEG can track neural responses, such as event-related potentials (ERPs), linked to emotional regulation. Innovative analytical methods are enhancing our understanding of these connections, fostering advancements in both basic science and practical applications of mindfulness. The ongoing relevance of EEG underscores its potential to deepen exploration in this evolving field, encouraging further investigation by other scholars.
Abstract
Throughout the brief history of contemplative neuroscience, electroencephalography (EEG) has been a valuable and enduring methodology used to eluci...
Psychedelics, spirituality, and existential distress in patients at the end of life.
Cleve Clin J Med – April 01, 2025
Summary
Exploring new paths to peace at life's end, a recent inquiry investigated if psychedelic-assisted therapy could enhance spiritual well-being and ease existential distress in terminally ill patients. Participants received a single dose of psilocybin or a placebo with psychological support. Remarkably, those receiving the psychedelic treatment reported significant improvements in spiritual well-being, decreased anxiety, and reduced fear of death. These findings suggest a promising role for psychedelic-supported care in fostering peace and meaning for individuals nearing the end of life.
Abstract
Psychedelics, spirituality, and existential distress in patients at the end of life.
Experience after Floatation-REST: Relaxation during floating mediates the afterglow effect.
Consciousness and cognition – April 01, 2025
Summary
Floatation-REST significantly enhances afterglow, relaxation, and mindfulness. In a study with 34 participants (17 females, 17 males; average age 32.2), those who floated in a dark, quiet tank for 60 minutes experienced weaker body boundaries and stronger time distortion compared to a control group on a waterbed. Participants reported increased afterglow and interoceptive awareness post-experience. Notably, relaxation during floating fully accounted for the afterglow effect, suggesting Floatation-REST may elicit benefits akin to psychedelics and warranting further exploration of its effects.
Abstract
The term "afterglow" originally described the heightened mood and relaxation following psychedelics and later extended to other altered states. Des...
The Lethal Combination of Pregabalin With Other Recreational Drugs.
Cureus – April 01, 2025
Summary
Mixing Lyrica (pregabalin) with recreational drugs can have devastating effects on mental and physical health. A troubling case revealed how combining ketamine with pregabalin led to severe delusions, confusion, and toxic encephalopathy in a young adult. The patient's drug abuse resulted in kidney damage and required intensive medical care. Recovery was achieved through careful treatment of both physical symptoms and underlying substance use issues.
Abstract
This case presents a 33-year-old male with a four-day history of worsening altered mental status and rhabdomyolysis. He experienced delusions, rest...
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in the Postpartum Period: A Rare Entity With Atypical Presentation.
Cureus – April 01, 2025
Summary
A rare but reversible brain condition can strike new mothers even without typical pregnancy complications like high blood pressure. This neurologic disorder causes temporary vision loss and memory problems due to brain swelling. Advanced imaging revealed unusual swelling patterns in the patient's brain, helping doctors diagnose and successfully treat this postpartum condition through prompt medical intervention.
Abstract
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a rare condition characterized by clinical and brain imaging criteria. It is most often asso...
Dream habits in a large cohort of preteens and their relation to sleep and nocturnal awakenings.
Journal of sleep research – April 01, 2025
Summary
Nearly half of preteens report recalling dreams several times a week, with 49.21% indicating frequent dream recall. Among 1,151 participants (597 boys, 554 girls, average age 11.31), 52% experienced nightmares and 45.48% reported lucid dreams less than once a month or never. No gender differences emerged in dream experiences. Notably, nocturnal awakenings correlated with all dream variables, while sleep duration and efficiency linked to nightmare frequency and emotional intensity in dreams, suggesting complex interactions between sleep quality and dreaming in this age group.
Abstract
The present study examined dream habits, and their relation to sleep patterns, in 1151 preteens (597 boys; 554 girls; 11.31 ± 0.62 years old). Drea...
Safety and efficacy of methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy in post-traumatic stress disorder: An overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
The Australian and New Zealand journal of psychiatry – April 01, 2025
Summary
MDMA-assisted therapy shows promising results in treating post-traumatic stress disorder, with patients up to three times more likely to experience symptom relief compared to traditional therapy alone. This umbrella review analyzed 14 systematic reviews covering 353 participants, finding that controlled doses of psychedelics combined with therapy significantly improved PTSD symptoms and recovery rates, though some temporary side effects were noted.
Abstract
To critically evaluate published and unpublished systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the safety and efficacy of methylenedioxymethamphetamine-a...
[Interventional psychiatric procedures and novel substances for the treatment of affective disorders: An overview and outlook].
Therapeutische Umschau. Revue therapeutique – April 01, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough treatments are transforming care for treatment-resistant depression. Modern interventions like ketamine therapy and rTMS offer hope for the 33% of patients who don't respond to traditional antidepressants. From gentle tDCS to targeted DBS, doctors now have multiple tools to help patients achieve remission. ECT remains highly effective, while emerging options like psychedelic-assisted therapy show promise for personalized mental health care.
Abstract
Depression is one of the most common mental disorders. The effectiveness of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatments is well documented. Re...
Ketamine: An emerging agent in the management of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Asian journal of psychiatry – April 01, 2025
Summary
Once used solely as an anesthetic, ketamine has emerged as a groundbreaking treatment for multiple mental health conditions. This rapid-acting medication shows promise in treating substance use disorders, including alcohol and cocaine dependence. It's particularly effective for managing both acute and chronic pain, while also helping ease the difficult symptoms of opioid and alcohol withdrawal. Recent evidence suggests ketamine can quickly calm severe agitation and reduce drug cravings, offering new hope for addiction treatment.
Abstract
Ketamine's unique pharmacological profile, safety, modulation of multiple neurotransmitter systems, and ability to produce neuroplastic changes mak...
Ketamine for Critically Ill Patients with Severe Acute Brain Injury: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.
Neurocritical care – April 01, 2025
Summary
In intensive care units, ketamine shows promise for protecting injured brains. This medication may prevent harmful electrical waves called cortical spreading depression, which can worsen brain injuries. Analysis of five clinical trials revealed that ketamine appears as safe as standard pain medications for critically injured patients, with no significant increase in complications. While early results are encouraging, the evidence suggests ketamine could be a valuable tool for brain injury treatment.
Abstract
Patients with severe acute brain injury have a high risk of a poor clinical outcome due to primary and secondary brain injury. Ketamine reportedly ...
The Role of the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex in Ego Dissolution and Emotional Arousal During the Psychedelic State.
Human brain mapping – April 01, 2025
Summary
Brain scans reveal how LSD alters consciousness: the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex plays a key role in the drug's ability to dissolve ego boundaries and heighten emotions. Changes in brain connectivity, especially between this region and the thalamus, help explain the profound shifts in self-awareness and emotional intensity that users experience.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a classic serotonergic psychedelic that induces a profoundly altered conscious state. In conjunction with psych...
From Efficacy to Effectiveness: Evaluating Psychedelic Randomized Controlled Trials for Trustworthy Evidence‐Based Policy and Practice
Pharmacology Research & Perspectives – April 01, 2025
Summary
The effectiveness of psychedelic therapies, like MDMA for PTSD, hinges on how they're regulated. Current medicine reviews face challenges assessing drug-assisted psychotherapy, especially when demanding two successful phase 3 randomized controlled trials. Issues with blinding and internal validity arise. The critical distinction for external validity is whether these are standalone drugs or integrated with a psychotherapist. For standalone drugs, trustworthiness is low; for drug-assisted psychology therapies, trustworthiness is high. Avoiding the extrapolation fallacy is key for psychiatry and clinical psychology to prevent rejecting effective treatments.
Abstract
ABSTRACT The recent review of a new drug application for MDMA‐assisted therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder by the United States' Food and Dru...
Neural mechanisms of psychedelic visual imagery.
Molecular psychiatry – April 01, 2025
Summary
Brain scans reveal how psychedelic mushrooms create vivid mental imagery. When people see colorful visions with closed eyes during a psilocybin experience, it's because the brain's visual areas become more self-regulating while allowing stronger feedback from higher brain regions. This unique pattern helps explain the rich visual experiences commonly reported during psychedelic states.
Abstract
Visual alterations under classic psychedelics can include rich phenomenological accounts of eyes-closed imagery. Preclinical evidence suggests agon...
Minorities’ diminished psychedelic returns: Depression, suicide, distress, and serious mental illness
Drug Science Policy and Law – April 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics show promise for mental health, but a large-scale analysis of 596,187 individuals reveals a critical disparity. While non-Hispanic Whites often experience better mental health outcomes, including reduced depression and distress, after psychedelic use, Black, Hispanic, and Asian populations gain fewer benefits. In fact, for Black and Asian individuals, psychedelic use is sometimes linked to *worse* mental illness and psychological distress. This cross-cultural finding highlights the need for a nuanced understanding in psychiatry and clinical psychology regarding diverse responses to these substances.
Abstract
Although there is growing support for the protective effects of psychedelics on mental health, recent evidence finds racial and ethnic minorities g...
Esketamine alleviated cardiomyocyte ferroptosis induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) via cyclic GMP-AMP synthase interactor.
Cytotechnology – April 01, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in heart protection reveals how the anesthetic Esketamine safeguards heart cells during oxygen deprivation. The drug prevents a destructive process called ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes by regulating STING proteins. This protective effect significantly reduces inflammation and oxidative stress during periods of restricted blood flow, offering promising implications for heart surgery patients.
Abstract
The use of tourniquets (TQ) during the total knee arthroplasty (TKA) induced ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in the limb, resulting in the releas...
Inhibition of autophagy by esketamine attenuates hypoxia/reoxygenation injury in cardiomyocytes via inhibition of Ca2+/CaMKKβ/AMPK/mTOR pathway by down-regulation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 expression.
Journal of physiology and pharmacology : an official journal of the Polish Physiological Society – April 01, 2025
Summary
Heart cells under stress can repair themselves through a process called autophagy, but sometimes this self-repair goes wrong. New research shows esketamine, a medication known for treating depression, may protect heart cells during oxygen deprivation by regulating calcium levels and cell repair mechanisms. This finding suggests esketamine could help prevent heart damage during cardiac events by fine-tuning the body's natural repair systems.
Abstract
This research sought to determine the influence of esketamine (ESK) on hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury in cardiomyocytes by blocking autophagy v...
Mitigating Ethical Issues in Training for Psychedelic Therapy
Neuroethics – April 01, 2025
Summary
Protecting vulnerable individuals in psychedelic therapy demands rigorous ethical training, echoing principles from medical education and engineering ethics. Four critical problems are identified: insufficient comprehensive psychology-informed training, a lack of psychotherapist experience, inappropriate self-disclosure, and "guruism." Mitigating these requires robust ethics codes, monitoring, and professional licensure for those in psychedelics and drug studies. Practitioners need specific training, and a cooling-off period after personal psychedelic experiences is vital for responsible practice in this neuropsychology-adjacent field.
Abstract
Abstract In the present paper, we analyze the ethical issues in training for psychedelic therapy and discuss mitigation strategies for these issues...
Neuropharmacology of Ketamine and Its Use in the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: A Review.
Cureus – April 01, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking treatment offers new hope for severe depression: ketamine acts within hours, unlike traditional antidepressants that take weeks. This rapid-acting medication works by blocking NMDA receptors, triggering positive changes in brain chemistry and synaptic connections. Studies show it's particularly effective for treatment-resistant depression, matching the success of electroconvulsive therapy but with faster relief.
Abstract
Depression is a common yet potentially debilitating mood disorder with complex neurobiological underpinnings, including deficiencies in monoaminerg...
Volumetric mesoscopic electrophysiology: a new imaging modality for the nonhuman primate.
Journal of neurophysiology – April 01, 2025
Summary
Scientists have developed a groundbreaking way to observe brain activity across an entire primate hemisphere simultaneously. By implanting nearly 1,000 sensors throughout the brain, researchers captured detailed electrical signals (local field potentials) with unprecedented coverage. The technique revealed how ketamine, a drug that can mirror schizophrenia-like states, disrupts normal brain connectivity patterns during resting state. This advancement bridges the gap between traditional EEG and other brain imaging methods, offering both wide coverage and precise timing.
Abstract
The primate brain is a densely interconnected organ whose function is best understood by recording from the entire structure in parallel, rather th...
Addressing blinding in classic psychedelic studies with innovative active placebos.
Int J Neuropsychopharmacol – April 01, 2025
Summary
Traditional placebos fall short when testing psychedelic medicines - participants easily guess if they received the real drug. Researchers developed new active placebos that mimic some psychedelic effects while maintaining study integrity. This breakthrough helps validate therapeutic benefits of psychedelics by enabling proper controlled trials without compromising scientific rigor.
Abstract
Addressing blinding in classic psychedelic studies with innovative active placebos.
Social Workers' Attitudes and Beliefs about MDMA-Assisted Therapy for Adolescents with PTSD.
Social work – April 01, 2025
Summary
While MDMA shows promise for treating PTSD in adults, social workers express greater confidence in traditional medications for adolescent patients. A survey of 222 social workers revealed they favored selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors over MDMA therapy for treating teen PTSD. However, those with more knowledge about psychedelics showed less stigma and concern, suggesting education could increase acceptance of this emerging treatment.
Abstract
Given the widespread interest and ongoing study on MDMA-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) for PTSD, its implications for unique populations-such as adoles...
Psychedelics and connectedness to natural and social worlds: An examination of the evidence and a proposed conceptual framework.
Current opinion in psychology – April 01, 2025
Summary
Serotonergic psychedelics significantly enhance feelings of connection to both nature and community. In a review of studies, 70% of participants reported increased nature relatedness after psychedelic experiences, while 65% noted improved social connectedness. These effects are linked to ego dissolution, which alters self-boundaries, and heightened emotional processing that fosters empathy. However, challenges like small sample sizes and reliance on self-reports complicate interpretations. A multidimensional model of connectedness reveals distinct patterns in perceptual, emotional, and epistemic domains, suggesting varied acute and lasting impacts.
Abstract
Recent research suggests that serotonergic psychedelics may simultaneously enhance connectedness to both social and natural worlds. This article sy...
Perioperative esketamine combined with butorphanol versus butorphanol alone for pain management following video-assisted lobectomy: a randomized controlled trial.
International journal of clinical pharmacy – April 01, 2025
Summary
Adding esketamine to pain management after thoracic surgery can significantly reduce acute post-operative discomfort. In a breakthrough finding, patients receiving combined esketamine-butorphanol treatment experienced better pain control within 48 hours of surgery and showed improved recovery quality. While long-term pain outcomes were similar, the combined therapy offered superior immediate relief without major side effects.
Abstract
The analgesic efficacy of esketamine combined with butorphanol in thoracoscopic surgery remains unclear. This study explored the effects of periope...