3085 results for "Psilocybin"
Naturalistic psychedelic therapy: The role of relaxation and subjective drug effects in antidepressant response
Journal of Psychopharmacology – September 20, 2024
Summary
Remarkably, relaxation during psychedelic-assisted therapy, not mystical experiences, best predicted significant antidepressant effects. Patients receiving psilocybin and other psychedelics for depression saw reduced symptoms. Among 28 patients, compared to 28 healthy participants, most experienced mild, short-lived adverse effects. This highlights crucial insights for clinical psychology and psychiatry regarding medicine's impact and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, offering new directions for psychedelic drug studies.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is permitted in Switzerland under its limited medical use program. Data from patients in this progra...
New frontiers in the biosynthesis of psychoactive specialized metabolites
Current Opinion in Plant Biology – September 16, 2024
Summary
The relaxation of psychedelic drug regulations has spurred interest in compounds like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for mental health. A review in Drug Studies highlights the intricate biochemistry and biology of hallucinogen production. It details metabolic pathways from diverse plant and fungal interactions, as well as animal sources, yielding five key compounds, including Mescaline, Lysergic acid, and tryptamine derivatives. This exploration of chemical synthesis and alkaloids aims to leverage synthetic biology to create novel psychedelics with superior pharmacology, complementing traditional methods.
Abstract
The recent relaxation of psychedelic drug regulations has prompted extensive clinical investigation into their potential use to treat diverse menta...
Adverse Events in Studies of Classic Psychedelics
JAMA Psychiatry – September 04, 2024
Summary
Healthy participants experienced zero serious adverse effects from classic hallucinogens like psilocybin. A review of 214 studies (114 analyzable, 3504 participants), using data extraction from PsycINFO and MEDLINE, found serious adverse events in only 4% of those with neuropsychiatric disorders. Nonserious adverse effects needing medicine were similarly rare. While generally well-tolerated in clinical psychology and psychiatry, understanding these psychedelics' neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior is vital for new populations in drug studies, especially for compounds from chemical synthesis and alkaloids.
Abstract
Importance A clear and comprehensive understanding of risks associated with psychedelic-assisted therapy is necessary as investigators extend its a...
Rethinking Therapeutic Strategies for Anorexia Nervosa: Insights From Psychedelic Medicine and Animal Models.
Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing) – July 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like psilocybin show promise in treating anorexia nervosa by targeting serotonin pathways and improving cognitive flexibility. Research using animal models reveals that these substances may help break rigid eating patterns by activating specific brain receptors. Studies combining behavioral therapy with carefully monitored psychedelic medicine could offer new hope for this challenging condition.
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disease, yet available pharmacological treatments are largely ineffective d...
Mushroom poisoning of Panaeolus subbalteatus from Ningxia, northwest China, with species identification and tryptamine detection.
Toxicon : official journal of the International Society on Toxinology – August 28, 2024
Summary
In Northwest China, wild mushroom poisonings led to a breakthrough discovery: The hallucinogenic mushroom P. subbalteatus contains extremely high levels of natural tryptamines. Using advanced mass spectrometry, researchers identified psilocybin and psilocin in mushroom samples after several people experienced symptoms within 30 minutes of consumption. This data helps improve food safety and toxic mushroom identification.
Abstract
Mushroom poisoning is a significant contributor to foodborne disease outbreaks in China. This study focuses on two Panaeolus subbalteatus poisoning...
Psychedelic therapy in depression and substance use disorders
European Journal of Neuroscience – May 21, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and mescaline, used for millennia in various cultural contexts, are revolutionizing psychiatry. Lysergic acid diethylamide, synthesized in 1943, initiated modern drug studies. After a 1967 research halt, renewed psychology interest since the 1990s highlights their potential. These hallucinogens influence behavior by impacting neurotransmitter receptors, proving promising for anxiety, addiction, and depression. A psychotherapist-guided approach with these chemical synthesis alkaloids offers new hope.
Abstract
Abstract Psychoactive substances obtained from botanicals have been applied for a wide variety of purposes in the rituals of different cultures for...
Clinical Research Trials of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in Adolescents Aged 16 to 17 Years: Rationale Balanced With Caution.
Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry – December 01, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking research explores psychedelic-assisted therapy as a potential treatment for treatment-resistant mental health conditions in older teens. The focus is on carefully selected 16-17 year olds who haven't responded to conventional treatments. Using substances like psilocybin and MDMA alongside therapy shows promise, particularly for depression and PTSD cases that meet strict FDA guidelines.
Abstract
Youth today are burdened by significant mental health challenges. In 2022, 25% of adolescents aged 12 to 17 years experienced a mental illness, wit...
A Systematic Review of the Neurocognitive Effects of Psychedelics in Healthy Populations: Implications for Depressive Disorders and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Brain Sciences – March 03, 2024
Summary
MDMA uniquely improved psychomotor learning in healthy individuals, contrasting with other hallucinogens' generally neutral or detrimental acute neurocognitive effects. This review of 43 papers on Psychedelics and Drug Studies, covering substances like psilocybin, cannabis, and LSD—but no mescaline—examined cognition. Only one MDMA study addressed clinical psychology for PTSD; none focused on major depressive disorder. Varied chemical synthesis and alkaloids likely explain diverse neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. Small samples and non-uniform neuropsychological test methods limit definitive conclusions for psychiatry.
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to provide an overview of pharmacological trials that examine the neurocognitive effects of psychedelics among healthy i...
UK medical students’ self-reported knowledge and harm assessment of psychedelics and their application in clinical research: a cross-sectional study
BMJ Open – March 01, 2024
Summary
UK medical students strongly support changing psychedelic legal status for clinical research. A cross-sectional study of 132 students found 80.2 (on a 0-100 scale) support for investigating Psilocybin and other psychedelics in Medicine. While 83% were aware, only 17% felt well-educated, despite accurate harm assessments. This highlights a gap in medical education across Psychiatry, Family medicine, and Clinical psychology, suggesting a need for more comprehensive Psychedelics and Drug Studies and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies.
Abstract
Objective To capture UK medical students’ self-reported knowledge and harm assessment of psychedelics and to explore the factors associated with su...
Development of a digital intervention for psychedelic preparation (DIPP).
Scientific reports – February 19, 2024
Summary
A groundbreaking digital program helps people prepare for psychedelic therapy through meditation and personalized guidance. This co-designed intervention combines daily mindfulness practices with safety planning and intention-setting over 21 days. Developed with input from psilocybin retreat participants, the person-centered approach enhances preparedness and maximizes therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances induce profound alterations in consciousness. Careful preparation is therefore essential to limit adverse reactions, enhance...
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...
Effects of DMT on mental health outcomes in healthy volunteers
Scientific Reports – February 07, 2024
Summary
Intravenous DMT significantly improved mental health, reducing depression within two weeks. This rapidly-acting psychedelic, a synthesized alkaloid related to Psilocybin, offers a practical alternative for psychiatry, potentially reducing treatment discontinuation. In a placebo-controlled group of 13, Neuroticism also decreased. Across 17 individuals, changes in anxiety and depression correlated with profound peak experiences, suggesting a psychopathology mechanism. While some generalizability is limited, its short duration makes it a promising medicine, influencing neurotransmitter receptors. This clinical psychology development could transform mental health.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, is being increasingly researched in clinical studies for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. T...
Serotonergic Psychedelics: A Comparative Review of Efficacy, Safety, Pharmacokinetics, and Binding Profile
Biological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging – February 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin shows promise for depression, a compelling finding in the burgeoning field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies. This review explores hallucinogens like Lysergic acid diethylamide and Mescaline, examining their pharmacology, including pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. These compounds, often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, exert serotonergic effects through neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. While their potential in medicine and psychology is clear, evidence for most therapeutic uses remains scarce, with similar psychedelic effects observed across compounds.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds, including psilocybin, LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), DMT (N,N -dimethyltryptamine), and 5-MeO-DMT (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyl...
Quantification of psilocin in human whole blood using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS)
Journal of Forensic Sciences – December 22, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, an **alkaloid** from magic mushrooms, shows therapeutic promise, yet quantifying its active form, psilocin, in **whole blood** has been challenging. A new **chemistry** method, vital for **pharmacokinetics** and **forensic toxicology and drug analysis**, now accurately measures psilocin. This **Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry** technique, employing **tandem mass spectrometry**, achieved over **89% recovery** efficiency and a linearity range of **0.7–200 ng/mL**. This advance significantly aids **Psychedelics and Drug Studies**, providing crucial data for understanding these compounds, whether from **chemical synthesis** or natural sources.
Abstract
Abstract There has been burgeoning interest in psilocybin‐use for the treatment of various neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. Psilocybin ...
Psychedelic Drugs or Hallucinogens: Exploring Their Medicinal Potential.
Cureus – November 01, 2023
Summary
Recent breakthroughs show psychedelic medicines like LSD and psilocybin are remarkably effective at treating depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Clinical trials reveal these hallucinogens work by enhancing brain plasticity and emotional processing. Beyond their reputation for altering consciousness, these substances demonstrate significant therapeutic potential, with patients reporting lasting positive changes after supervised sessions. Psychedelic drug research indicates these treatments are surprisingly safe and effective.
Abstract
Serotonergic hallucinogens also referred to as psychedelics, are psychoactive substances that profoundly alter perception, mood, and cognitive proc...
Epidemiology of classic psychedelic substances: results from a Norwegian internet convenience sample
Frontiers in Psychiatry – November 13, 2023
Summary
Most Norwegian adults using psychoactive substances like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), synthetic compounds or alkaloids, report improved mental health. A sample of 770 individuals revealed 42.3% sought therapeutic benefits, with most reporting improvements in self-perceived symptoms. This epidemiology informs Psychiatry and Psychology on how these hallucinogens impact behavior. While recreation is common, 4.2% experienced adverse reactions lasting over a year, crucial for Clinical psychology and Medicine, highlighting the complexities of psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Objective In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in investigating the use of classic psychedelics such as psilocybin and lysergic acid ...
Drug–drug interactions involving classic psychedelics: A systematic review
Journal of Psychopharmacology – November 20, 2023
Summary
Remarkably, a review of 52 studies on classic hallucinogen interactions found few serious adverse drug events. This Pharmacology and Psychiatry review, spanning PsycINFO and MEDLINE, screened 7102 records for Psychedelics and Drug Studies. It examined how psychotropic drugs like Lysergic acid diethylamide, Psilocybin, and Mescaline, often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, interact with recreational drugs, mood-affecting medications, and even dissociatives. Findings revealed varied effects, highlighting complex Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, vital for Medicine and Psychology.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics, including lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, mescaline, N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltry...
Efficacy and Safety of Four Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies for Adults with Symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – November 15, 2023
Summary
Depression symptoms saw substantial relief from psychedelics, a meta-analysis of eighteen studies in clinical psychology reveals. Psilocybin therapy showed a large effect size (g = -1.92), while MDMA also significantly impacted depression (g = -0.71). These well-tolerated treatments, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, offer promising avenues for psychiatry and medicine, potentially aiding psychotherapists addressing anxiety and posttraumatic stress. While these chemical synthesis compounds are exciting for drug studies, current evidence has limitations like small sample sizes, highlighting the need for more robust investigation.
Abstract
There has been a resurgence in psychedelic research for managing psychiatric conditions in recent years. This study aimed to present a comprehensiv...
Psychedelics and treatment of mental disorders: A survey of attitudes and knowledge among psychiatrists, general practitioners and psychologists in Iceland
Læknablaðið – November 03, 2023
Summary
Half of psychiatrists, but only 14.6% of general practitioners and 17.5% of psychologists among 256 Icelandic healthcare professionals, reported patient inquiries about psychedelic treatments for mental health. Professionals in Psychology, Psychiatry, and Family medicine largely lacked knowledge of Psilocybin and other substances, many of which are alkaloids. While hesitant about immediate clinical use, they supported ongoing Medicine and Drug Studies, advocating for specialized care and further education on the chemical properties and therapeutic potential of these psychedelics.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Interest in the use of psychedelics has increased following reports of their possible therapeutic potential. However, little is known...
Ethopharmacological evaluation of antidepressant-like effect of serotonergic psychedelics in C57BL/6J male mice.
Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology – May 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like psilocybin show remarkable promise in treating major depressive disorder, with effects lasting weeks after a single dose. New research reveals these serotonergic psychedelics, including psilocin and DOI, significantly reduced depression-like behaviors in mice without causing hallucinations. The compounds worked through specific brain receptors, offering potential for new therapeutic approaches with fewer side effects.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, and DOI exert a hallucinatory effect through serotonin 5-HT2A receptor (5...
Tryptamines and Mental Health: Activating the 5-HT Receptor for Therapeutic Potential
ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters – September 15, 2023
Summary
Breakthroughs in Medicine reveal tryptamines, a class of alkaloids, are revolutionizing mental health treatments. Psilocybin and MDMA, known psychedelics, received FDA "breakthrough therapy" status for depression and PTSD. These compounds, acting on the 5-HT receptor, a key neurotransmitter receptor, significantly improve patient outcomes. Ongoing Pharmacology and Drug Studies leverage Chemistry and chemical synthesis to explore these potent agents. Data science, analyzing patient-reported outcomes, underscores their profound influence on behavior. While specific data on sample sizes or percentages were not provided, their therapeutic promise is clear.
Abstract
Tryptamines, a class of 3-aminoethyl-indoles that activate the serotonin receptor, show potential for novel mental health treatments. The FDA has g...
Adapting psychedelic medicine for headache and chronic pain disorders.
Expert review of neurotherapeutics – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide show promising potential in treating stubborn headache disorders and chronic pain conditions. Beyond their known benefits for depression, these compounds may offer relief through different mechanisms than traditional painkillers. Early clinical trials and patient reports suggest psychedelics could provide lasting pain reduction with fewer side effects than current treatments.
Abstract
While the majority of current research and development surrounds depression, demoralization, and substance use disorders, there are numerous report...
Underlying pharmacological mechanisms of psilocin-induced broadband desynchronization and disconnection of EEG in rats
Frontiers in Neuroscience – June 22, 2023
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin, a potent serotonergic psychedelic, influences brain activity beyond the well-known 5-HT2A receptor. Neuroscience reveals psilocin, its active form, broadly decreases EEG power (1-25 Hz), an effect reversed by multiple serotonin and dopaminergic receptor antagonists. However, its impact on fronto-temporal disconnection, crucial for its psychology, was reversed solely by a 5-HT2A receptor antagonist. This pharmacology, rooted in chemistry, highlights diverse neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, expanding drug studies and biochemical analysis of psychedelics.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin is one of the most extensively studied psychedelic drugs with a broad therapeutic potential. Despite the fact that its psyc...
Next generation antidepressants with novel mechanisms for treatment resistant depression.
Progress in brain research – January 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough treatments like ketamine and psilocybin are revolutionizing depression care by rapidly altering brain chemistry and consciousness. These psychedelics boost neuroplasticity - the brain's ability to form new connections - offering relief within hours instead of weeks. Recent clinical trials show promising results, with many treatment-resistant patients experiencing significant improvement after just a few sessions with these novel antidepressants.
Abstract
Evidence has suggested that the modulation of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) and 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors (5-HTRs) via the psychedeli...
Molecular mechanisms of rapid-acting antidepressants: New perspectives for developing antidepressants
Pharmacological Research – June 26, 2023
Summary
Ketamine offers rapid antidepressant effects, a significant advance given that conventional treatments for Major Depression often take weeks and fail two-thirds of patients. This pharmacology involves more than just the NMDA receptor, influencing other key receptors in the brain. Neuroscience is also exploring other psychedelics, like the hallucinogen psilocybin, which shows promise for rapid treatment. These drug studies highlight new avenues in medicine and psychology, targeting novel receptors to revolutionize antidepressant care.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a chronic relapsing psychiatric disorder. Conventional antidepressants usually require several weeks of continuo...
Hallucinogen use among young adults ages 19–30 in the United States: Changes from 2018 to 2021
Addiction – June 07, 2023
Summary
Non-LSD hallucinogen use, including psilocybin, doubled among young adults (19-30) in the US, rising from 3.4% in 2018 to 6.6% in 2021. This longitudinal cohort study of 11,304 individuals found Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) use remained stable. An odds ratio of 1.86 (95% confidence interval 1.52–2.26) revealed males had higher odds of non-LSD hallucinogen use. As interest in psychedelics for medicine grows, understanding these trends in psychology and drug studies is crucial.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Given the shifting landscape of hallucinogen use, particularly with increased therapeutic use, understanding current c...
Time-resolved network control analysis links reduced control energy under DMT with the serotonin 2a receptor, signal diversity, and subjective experience
OpenAlex – May 12, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and the hallucinogen lysergic acid diethylamide profoundly reshape brain dynamics. Neuroscience reveals that N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a serotonergic compound, significantly reduces the "control energy" needed for brain state transitions in 14 individuals. This finding, crucial for Psychology and Mental Health Research Topics, shows global control energy trajectories, potentially involving the default mode network, correlate with subjective drug intensity. These effects are linked to serotonin 2a receptor density, demonstrating neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior and offering a predictive model for Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelics offer a profound window into the functioning of the human brain and mind through their robust acute effects on perception, su...
The molecular basis of the antidepressant action of the magic mushroom extract, psilocin.
Biochimica et biophysica acta. Proteins and proteomics – July 01, 2023
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals how magic mushrooms' active compound, psilocin, fights depression at the molecular level. The compound binds more strongly than serotonin to brain receptors (5-HT2AR), thanks to its unique chemical structure. Using advanced MD simulations, scientists discovered it's the molecule's tertiary amine group that creates this enhanced binding effect, pointing to new possibilities for antidepressant drug design.
Abstract
Magic mushrooms, and their extract psilocybin, are well-known for their psychedelic properties and recreational use. Psilocin, the bio-active form ...
Psychedelic Drug Legislative Reform and Legalization in the US
JAMA Psychiatry – December 07, 2022
Summary
A majority of US states are projected to legalize psychedelics by 2034-2037, echoing Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. Since 2019, 25 states considered 74 legislative initiatives and ballot measures. Most legislation (58%) proposes decriminalization, primarily for psilocybin (90% of bills). However, only 35% outline licensure or training for medical use. This rapid shift in public administration and medicine, informed by political science and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, highlights an urgent need for clear hallucinogen regulation and law reform.
Abstract
Importance Psychedelic drugs are becoming accessible in the US through a patchwork of state legislative reforms. This shift necessitates consensus ...
Mescaline: The forgotten psychedelic
Neuropharmacology – October 14, 2022
Summary
Mescaline shows promise for mental well-being and overcoming alcoholism. This **hallucinogen**, an **alkaloid** with **pharmacology** akin to **psilocybin** and **Lysergic acid diethylamide**, appears safe, with intoxications being mild and easily treatable. Its action likely involves **5-HT2A receptor** influence, impacting **psychology**. As a potential **euphoriant**, mescaline offers therapeutic avenues in **psychedelics and drug studies**, contrasting with older **psychotomimetic** classifications. Such insights into **neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior** highlight its clinical value.
Abstract
The pharmacological mechanisms of mescaline are similar to those of other classical psychedelics, like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (L...
Psychedelic therapy for depressive symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of affective disorders – February 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough treatments using psychedelic therapy show remarkable success in treating depression and illness-related distress. Clinical trials with psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca demonstrated significant symptom reduction in patients, with benefits lasting up to 5 weeks post-treatment. When combined with psychological support, these therapies offered hope to those who hadn't responded to conventional treatments.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy shows promise for Major Depressive Disorder, especially when treatment-resistant, as well as life-threatening illness distress....
A Critical Appraisal of Evidence on the Efficacy and Safety of Serotonergic Psychedelic Drugs as Emerging Antidepressants: Mind the Evidence Gap.
Journal of clinical psychopharmacology
Summary
Recent clinical trials reveal promising results for psychedelic compounds in treating depression, with psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca showing rapid mood improvements. Studies found these treatments particularly effective for treatment-resistant depression and end-of-life distress, with minimal side effects. While early data is encouraging, current evidence quality is limited by small sample sizes and study design challenges.
Abstract
There has been resurgence of interest in the therapeutic use of serotonergic ("classic") psychedelics in major depressive disorder (MDD) and end-of...
Psychedelics in the treatment of unipolar and bipolar depression
International Journal of Bipolar Disorders – July 05, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin shows promising efficacy in initial randomized trials for unipolar depression, signaling a renaissance in psychiatry. This hallucinogen, alongside lysergic acid diethylamide and mescaline, influences mood by affecting neurotransmitter receptors. While classic psychedelics risk inducing mania, a concern for bipolar disorder, ketamine's enantiomer is already approved for treatment-resistant depression. Clinical psychology explores psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Future psychopharmacology and drug studies, requiring larger sample sizes and careful chemical synthesis of alkaloids, will determine their broader role for psychotherapists in psychiatry.
Abstract
Abstract This is a narrative review about the role of classic and two atypical psychedelics in the treatment of unipolar and bipolar depression. Si...
Synergistic, Multi-level Understanding of Psychedelics: Three Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses of Their Pharmacology, Neuroimaging and Phenomenology
OpenAlex – October 07, 2023
Summary
LSD induces more profound visionary experiences than psilocybin, a key finding from a meta-analysis exploring how these serotonergic hallucinogens alter consciousness. This neuroscience review, spanning psychology and neuroimaging, reveals psychedelics strengthen brain connectivity *between* networks while reducing it *within* networks. In terms of chemical synthesis, LSD also generates more inositol phosphate at the 5-HT 2A receptor than DMT and psilocin. This integrated understanding of neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior offers insights into potential addiction treatments, advancing Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Serotonergic psychedelics induce altered states of consciousness and have shown potential for treating a variety of neuropsychiatric disor...
Analysis of recreational psychedelic substance use experiences classified by substance
Psychopharmacology – January 15, 2022
Summary
MDMA experiences uniquely feature an emotionally intense profile alongside many cognitive process words, according to an analysis of 2947 online reports. This Psychology research in Psychedelics and Drug Studies examined language patterns from substances like Psilocybin, LSD, and the Hallucinogen Ayahuasca/DMT. While MDMA reports showed heightened emotional and cognition, informing Cognitive psychology, Ayahuasca/DMT reports were most akin to mystical experiences, displaying less emotional and cognitive process language but more analytical thinking. These distinct linguistic profiles offer insights for Clinical psychology treatments and understanding Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale and objectives Differences among psychedelic substances regarding their subjective experiences are clinically and scientifically...
Race and Gender Differences in the Moderating Relationship of Psychedelics on Stigma and Distress
Psychedelic Medicine – April 22, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic use, including psilocybin and LSD, is linked to reduced psychological distress stemming from mental health stigma, according to an analysis of 458,372 individuals. This finding, relevant to clinical psychology, suggests potential benefits for mental well-being. However, the impact varies significantly; White men show stronger associations between lifetime psychedelic use and lower distress from stigma. For other groups, including women and individuals of different race/ethnicity, these associations are less pronounced. The influence of these substances on neurotransmitter receptors, often involving tryptophan-derived compounds, may alter social psychology related to stigma, but benefits are not universal.
Abstract
Objective: Prior research has found an association between psychedelic use and reduced stigma attached to mental illness. However, whether psychede...
A systematic review and narrative summary of the therapeutic potential of classic serotonergic psychedelics for smoking cessation and reduction
Journal of Psychopharmacology – July 11, 2025
Summary
Compelling evidence suggests certain hallucinogens may aid smoking cessation. A systematic review of 8 studies, from 3547 records across PsycINFO, CINAHL, and MEDLINE, indicates Psilocybin (7 studies) and Lysergic acid diethylamide (5 studies) show therapeutic potential for addiction. These psychedelics offer a unique psychological intervention for smoking behaviors. While Mescaline also appeared, current literature relevant to Clinical psychology and Psychiatry is limited by methodological weaknesses, requiring stronger designs in Medicine for future Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Background: Classic serotonergic psychedelics are 5-HT2A partial agonists that induce non-ordinary states of consciousness. Many have demonstrated ...
Phenomenological assessment of psychedelics induced experiences: Translation and validation of the German Challenging Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) and Ego-Dissolution Inventory (EDI)
PLoS ONE – March 16, 2022
Summary
A 26-item *rating scale* for challenging *psilocybin* experiences, for *psychedelics and drug studies*, showed robust *psychometrics*. *Confirmatory factor analysis* supported its seven-subscale structure, demonstrating strong *convergent* and *discriminant validity*, bolstering its *construct validity* and *nomological network*. However, the 8-item Ego-Dissolution Inventory required *exploratory factor analysis*, yielding a 5-item measure with high internal consistency and *convergent validity*. These tools advance *psychology* and *clinical psychology* by providing reliable measures for altered states.
Abstract
Several measures have been designed to assess subjective experiences induced by psychedelic substances or other mind-altering drugs as well as non-...
Biochemical Insights into Diverse Psilocybe Mushrooms and Their Metabolites as Sources of Neuroactive Agents: A Review.
Current microbiology – July 15, 2025
Summary
Beyond traditional use, certain mushrooms contain compounds showing remarkable promise for mental health. A review of scientific literature explores the chemical makeup and genetic diversity of Psilocybe species. It reveals significant therapeutic potential for treating conditions like depression, anxiety, and addiction, suggesting a promising future for these natural agents.
Abstract
Psilocybe species, commonly known as "magic mushrooms", are a group of hallucinogenic fungi known for their psychoactive compounds such as psilocyb...
Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Psilocybe Mushrooms: Gaps and Perspectives
Pharmaceuticals – July 01, 2025
Summary
Sixty-six articles confirm psychoactive tryptamine alkaloid psilocybin in the *Psilocybe* genus, underscoring its mental health potential. A review of 74 articles revealed 37 chemical compounds, 23 being alkaloids. Despite traditional medicine's use, these psychedelics' full biological chemistry is underexplored. Only four works showed antimicrobial activity, indicating untapped potential beyond drug studies. Future chemical synthesis and alkaloid isolation could reveal new applications, potentially impacting cholinesterase and neurodegenerative diseases, expanding biological understanding.
Abstract
The Psilocybe genus is known for producing tryptamine alkaloids, specifically the compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which have shown antidepressan...
Perturbing whole‐brain models of brain hierarchy: An application for depression following pharmacological treatment
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences – July 21, 2025
Summary
Treatments for **depression** distinctly reconfigure the brain's organizational **hierarchy**. **Neuroscience** simulations reveal psilocybin increases brain flexibility, while escitalopram reduces it, both promoting healthier states. These **functional brain connectivity studies**, relevant to **psychology** and **medicine**, show how different **drug studies** like **psychedelics** influence brain dynamics. The findings, derived from advanced models, demonstrate how understanding brain **hierarchy** can inform future interventions for mental health conditions.
Abstract
Abstract Determining the scale of neural representations is a central challenge in neuroscience. While localized representations have traditionally...
Effects of the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist volinanserin on head-twitch response and intracranial self-stimulation depression induced by different structural classes of psychedelics in rodents.
Psychopharmacology – June 01, 2022
Summary
Psychopharmacology reveals how volinanserin, targeting the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor (a g protein-coupled receptor or gpcr), affects psychedelics. Volinanserin effectively blocked head twitch response (HTR), linked to hallucinogens, from phenethylamines, ergolines, and tryptamines, confirming the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor's role. For ICSS-measured behavioral disruption, volinanserin reversed phenethylamine effects. Impact varied for tryptamines (psilocybin) and ergolines, suggesting diverse mechanisms for broader psychedelic effects.
Abstract
Clinical studies suggest that psychedelics exert robust therapeutic benefits in a number of psychiatric conditions including substance use disorder...
Ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry determination of hallucinogenic drugs in hair of psychedelic plants and mushrooms consumers.
Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis – November 01, 2014
Summary
Detecting past psychedelic drug use is now more precise. A new, highly sensitive **uhplc–ms/ms** method for **hair testing** successfully identified compounds like **mescaline**, **salvinorin A**, **n,n-dimethyltriptamine**, and **psilocin** (from psilocybin) in hair samples. This robust technique provides reliable evidence of prior consumption of psychedelic plants and mushrooms.
Abstract
A procedure based on ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry has been developed for the determination of mescaline, N,N-...
Differential contributions of serotonin receptors to the behavioral effects of indoleamine hallucinogens in mice
Journal of Psychopharmacology – December 08, 2010
Summary
A compelling finding in psychedelic drug studies: 1-methylpsilocin, a potential therapeutic, shows greater pharmacological selectivity than the hallucinogen psilocin (from psilocybin). Both acted as agonists on the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor to induce head twitches in C57BL/6J mice, yet 1-methylpsilocin (0.6–9.6 mg/kg) was inactive in other behavioral tests. Psilocin, however, influenced behavior via 5-HT1A and 5-HT2C receptors. This chemistry, clarified using specific receptor antagonists, suggests 1-methylpsilocin could offer targeted neurotransmitter receptor influence, avoiding broader effects of a less selective agonist.
Abstract
Psilocin (4-hydroxy- N, N-dimethyltryptamine) is a hallucinogen that acts as an agonist at 5-HT 1A , 5-HT 2A , and 5-HT 2C receptors. Psilocin is t...
The discriminative effects of the kappa-opioid hallucinogen salvinorin A in nonhuman primates: dissociation from classic hallucinogen effects.
Psychopharmacology – June 01, 2010
Summary
A unique hallucinogen, salvinorin A, produces effects distinct from classic psychedelic drugs by targeting specific brain receptors. Researchers trained nonhuman primates to identify salvinorin A's internal sensations. They found that its effects were recognized alongside other kappa-opioid compounds but not with serotonergic hallucinogens like psilocybin or dissociatives like ketamine. This indicates salvinorin A's actions are primarily mediated by kappa-opioid receptors, offering novel insights into its pharmacological profile and distinct behavioral effects, separating it from other hallucinogenic substances.
Abstract
The widely available hallucinogen salvinorin A is a unique example of a plant-derived compound selective for kappa-opioid receptors and may produce...
Human behavioral pharmacology of psychedelics.
Advances in pharmacology (San Diego, Calif.) – January 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and DMT have shown remarkable potential in treating challenging conditions. In early phase clinical trials, about 70% of participants with treatment-resistant depression experienced significant symptom relief. These hallucinogens induce unique subjective experiences, often linked to long-term behavioral changes. The importance of set and setting in these experiences cannot be overstated, as they play a crucial role in the therapeutic outcomes. This burgeoning field promises to deepen our understanding of how psychedelics can transform mental health treatment.
Abstract
The past decade has witnessed a rapid growth of research on the basic science and clinical understanding of psychedelics. This chapter provides an ...
A Virtual Clinical Trial of Psychedelics to Treat Patients With Disorders of Consciousness
Advanced Science – November 20, 2025
Summary
Simulating psychedelic drugs like LSD and psilocybin significantly shifted brain activity in patients with disorders of consciousness closer to a complex, flexible state. Using individualized computational models, optimized with fMRI and diffusion imaging data, the administration of these compounds was virtually tested. Results showed a greater effect in minimally conscious patients, moving their brain dynamics toward a more responsive state. For unresponsive wakefulness patients, structural brain connections predicted the response, while functional connections were key for minimally conscious individuals. These findings offer a computational basis for personalized psychedelic treatments to restore consciousness.
Abstract
Abstract Disorders of consciousness (DoC), including unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) and minimally conscious state (MCS), have limited trea...
Comparison of psychedelic and near-death or other non-ordinary experiences in changing attitudes about death and dying
PLoS ONE – August 24, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic experiences, involving psilocybin or lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), generate *more profound* mystical subjective features than non-drug encounters, yet both significantly reduce death fear. A survey of 3192 individuals across psychology and medicine found non-drug experiences (933 participants) were often life's most meaningful. Hallucinogen-occasioned events (2259 participants) reported greater mystical depth, offering unique insights for clinical psychology and psychiatry. Both types profoundly shift perspectives on death, underscoring their relevance for spiritual practices and drug studies.
Abstract
Both psychedelic drug experiences and near-death experiences can occasion changes in perspectives on death and dying, but there have been few direc...
Psychedelic drug abuse potential assessment research for new drug applications and Controlled Substances Act scheduling
Neuropharmacology – August 17, 2022
Summary
New psychiatric medicines, including psilocybin, MDMA, and lysergic acid diethylamide, face hurdles as Schedule I controlled substances. Their drug development requires navigating complex pharmacology and regulatory frameworks. Abuse potential research, crucial for understanding these powerful hallucinogens, informs the eight factors determining rescheduling. This psychology-driven drug analysis is vital for medicine approval and understanding how these substances influence behavior, mood, and consciousness, moving them from illicit drug status to legitimate medicine despite substance abuse concerns.
Abstract
New medicines containing classic hallucinogenic and entactogenic psychedelic substance are under development for various psychiatric and neurologic...
Classic Psychedelic Coadministration with Lithium, but Not Lamotrigine, is Associated with Seizures: An Analysis of Online Psychedelic Experience Reports
Pharmacopsychiatry – August 04, 2021
Summary
Combining the hallucinogen psilocybin, an alkaloid, with the mood stabilizer Lithium carries significant risks, a striking finding for psychiatry and clinical psychology. Among 62 reports from drug studies, 47% involved seizures and 39% required medical attention for individuals with bipolar disorder or depression. In contrast, none of 34 Lamotrigine reports, another mood stabilizer, showed such adverse effects, highlighting critical neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior and mood management.
Abstract
Abstract Introduction Psychedelics show promise in treating unipolar depression, though patients with bipolar disorder have been excluded from rece...