5439 results for "Psychedelics"
Acute Effects and Pharmacokinetics of LSD after Paroxetine or Placebo Pre‐Administration in a Randomized, Double‐Blind, Cross‐Over Phase I Trial
Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics – February 28, 2025
Summary
Paroxetine significantly reduces the unpleasant effects of LSD, a finding critical for psychedelic medicine. In a randomized, double-blind, crossover study, 23 healthy participants receiving paroxetine, versus placebo, experienced less "anxiety," "nausea," and "bad drug effect" from LSD. This pharmacology insight reveals paroxetine increased LSD's concentrations by 1.4-1.5 times, impacting its pharmacokinetics. Such drug studies, exploring chemical synthesis and alkaloids, suggest add-on treatment is well-tolerated, guiding future medicine and potentially dose adjustments, even beyond traditional complementary and alternative medicine approaches.
Abstract
Psychedelics, such as psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), are being investigated for the treatment of depressive and anxiety disorders...
Single-dose psilocybin therapy for alcohol use disorder: Pharmacokinetics, feasibility, safety and efficacy in an open-label study
Journal of Psychopharmacology – February 28, 2025
Summary
A single dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin significantly reduced alcohol consumption in adults with severe alcohol use disorder. Ten participants saw heavy drinking days drop by 37.5 percentage points and drinks per day decrease by 3.4 drinks over 12 weeks after a 25 mg dosing. Despite pharmacokinetic variations, with peak psilocin concentrations ranging 14-59 µg/L, this medicine showed promise. Reductions in craving also occurred, highlighting psilocybin's pharmacology and its potential as a novel alcohol treatment. This contributes to psychedelics and drug studies exploring neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin, a serotonin 2A receptor agonist with psychedelic properties, shows promise as a novel treatment for alcohol use disorder (A...
Emerging Medications for Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Review with Perspective on Mechanisms and Challenges
Brain Sciences – February 06, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, have seen the greatest surge in development for treatment-resistant depression over the past five years, offering a new perspective in psychology and psychiatry. Fifty trials are investigating new medicines for this severe form of major depression, alongside 20 for anhedonia and 25 for suicide. These pharmacological approaches target diverse brain chemistry, from glutamate receptors to monoamine pathways, moving beyond traditional treatments. This medical innovation promises to alleviate the profound human and economic burden of depression, potentially preventing the need for intensive care in severe cases.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Non-response to initial treatment options for major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common clinical challenge with profound d...
Exploring Psilocybe cubensis Strains: Cultivation Techniques, Psychoactive Compounds, Genetics and Research Gaps
Journal of Fungi – January 28, 2025
Summary
*Psilocybe cubensis* strains show substantial biological variability in psilocybin content, a critical factor for therapeutic applications. Decades of regulatory restrictions on psychedelics have severely limited the scientific documentation of this fungal diversity, preventing precise data collection on strain-specific alkaloid profiles. Advances in biotechnology, including submerged fermentation and improved analytical methods, are now enhancing our understanding of their chemical synthesis. This renewed focus in drug studies highlights the urgent need for robust documentation to optimize therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Psilocybe cubensis, a widely recognized psychoactive mushroom species, has played a significant role in both historical and modern therapeutic prac...
Treatment of neuropathic pain with repeated low-dose MDMA: a case report.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking case shows how MDMA microdosing provided lasting relief for severe chronic pain. After traditional treatments failed, doctors explored psychedelic-assisted therapy, first with LSD then with MDMA. Small, repeated doses of MDMA significantly reduced the patient's neuropathic pain, with benefits persisting even after treatment ended. This suggests promising limited medical use for MDMA in pain management.
Abstract
A 64-year-old male patient who suffered from traumatic life experiences and neuropathic pain after oncological chemotherapy was treated with medium...
Clinical and preclinical evidence of psilocybin as antidepressant. A narrative review
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin demonstrates large, rapid, and persistent antidepressant effects, offering a compelling new direction in Medicine and Psychiatry. Clinical trials reveal significant improvements in depression and anxiety symptoms, alongside a favorable safety profile. This psychedelic compound, often integrated with a psychotherapist in Psychology, holds novel treatment potential. Preclinical drug studies are actively elucidating psilocybin's neurobiological actions and therapeutic mechanisms, exploring its profound impact as an alternative approach to traditional chemical synthesis in mental health.
Abstract
In the rapidly growing field of psychedelic research, psilocybin (and active metabolite psilocin) has been proposed as a promising candidate in the...
Effect of psilocybin versus escitalopram on depression symptom severity in patients with moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder: observational 6-month follow-up of a phase 2, double-blind, randomised, controlled trial
EClinicalMedicine – September 23, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin demonstrates remarkable efficacy against Major Depressive Disorder. A double-blind randomized controlled trial with 104 adults revealed 71% experienced significant symptom reduction after psilocybin treatment, versus 35% receiving Escitalopram. This psychiatry research, part of emerging Psychedelics and Drug Studies, positions psilocybin, a synthesized alkaloid, as a powerful intervention in Medicine. Ongoing observational study tracks long-term benefits, highlighting its potential to alleviate the economic burden of depression beyond conventional Complementary and Alternative Medicine approaches.
Abstract
The Alexander Mosley Charitable Trust and by the founding partners of Imperial College London's Centre for Psychedelic Research.
Single-Dose Psilocybin for Depression With Severe Treatment Resistance: An Open-Label Trial
American Journal of Psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen and alkaloid studied in chemical synthesis, shows promise for severe treatment-resistant depression. An open-label clinical trial suggests its efficacy and safety in psychiatry, offering new avenues in the costly treatment of major depression. This groundbreaking psychology research, part of ongoing psychedelics and drug studies, supports further medicine investigation, particularly regarding potential PTSD interaction effects. Such findings are vital for addressing the significant burden of depression.
Abstract
This open-label study suggests efficacy and safety of psilocybin in severe TRD and supports further study of psychedelics in this population, inclu...
Compass Psychological Support Model for COMP360 Psilocybin Treatment of Serious Mental Health Conditions
American Journal of Psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
Ensuring robust psychological support is paramount when using the hallucinogen psilocybin for mental health. The Compass Psychological Support Model (CPSM) provides a structured framework, guiding psychotherapists to deliver safe, meaningful experiences for individuals in clinical trials receiving investigational COMP360 psilocybin treatment. This approach, vital to clinical psychology and psychiatry, optimizes the therapeutic potential of this medicine, a compound derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids. It also supports diverse academic research themes within psychedelics and drug studies, advancing mental health care.
Abstract
The psychedelic experience can be challenging. There is a need for a structured framework for providing psychological support to individuals with m...
Psilocybin as a disease-modifying drug—a salutogenic approach in psychiatry
Deutsches Ärzteblatt international – December 16, 2024
Summary
Psychotherapy combined with psychoactive substances like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide may be psychiatry's first disease-modifying medicine. Unlike traditional psychopharmacotherapy, these hallucinogen drugs, derived from chemical synthesis or alkaloids, offer rapid, sustainable efficacy. This novel pharmacology, explored in Psychedelics and Drug Studies and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, moves beyond symptom management. A psychotherapist guiding this drug-assisted medicine could help a significant percentage of patients, potentially over 60%, achieve profound well-being, influencing both psychology and general medicine.
Abstract
Treatment with psilocybin differs fundamentally from classic psychopharmacotherapy. Its potentially transdiagnostic, rapid, and sustainable efficac...
Randomized Controlled Trials of Psilocybin‐Assisted Therapy in the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica – December 03, 2024
Summary
Patients with major depressive disorder receiving psilocybin-assisted therapy were over three times more likely to achieve remission (relative risk = 3.66) within a week. This meta-analysis of six randomized controlled trials (N=427), drawing partly from the Cochrane Library, highlights psilocybin's potential as medicine in psychiatry. This chemical synthesis and alkaloid influences neurotransmitter receptor activity, showing significant promise in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. However, a 20% increased relative risk of any adverse effect (RR=1.20) was noted. This finding is crucial for internal medicine.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Introduction There is growing interest in the use of psychedelic‐assisted therapy (PAT) for major depressive disorder (MDD), including tre...
Psilocybin as a novel treatment for chronic pain
British Journal of Pharmacology – November 29, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, holds significant promise in medicine for chronic pain relief. Neuroscience investigations reveal its anti-nociceptive potential, particularly for neuropathic and inflammatory pain. This psychedelic drug influences serotonergic pathways, demonstrating neuroplasticity by improving brain connectivity relevant to pain. Its chemical synthesis and alkaloid nature allow it to modulate specific neurotransmitter receptors, profoundly influencing behavior. Such insights from Psychology and Drug Studies indicate a new frontier for managing severe chronic pain, addressing both its physical and emotional components.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic drugs are under active consideration for clinical use and have generated significant interest for their potential as anti‐noci...
Effects of psychoplastogens on blood levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in humans: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Molecular Psychiatry – November 29, 2024
Summary
A comprehensive meta-analysis of 29 studies reveals that psychedelics and related drugs, often explored in Drug Studies for conditions like Major Depression, do not elevate peripheral Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in humans. BDNF, a key neurotrophic factor, is a common biomarker for neuroplasticity in medicine and psychology. Despite its use, this analysis, spanning databases like PsycINFO, found a negligible effect size (0.024). This suggests peripheral BDNF may not reliably indicate rapid neuroplasticity changes, challenging assumptions in neuroscience and internal medicine about these compounds.
Abstract
Abstract Background Peripheral levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are often used as a biomarker for the rapid plasticity-promoting ...
Expanding the Therapeutic Horizons of Psilocybin in Mental Health
ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters – October 15, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, is opening new horizons in mental health treatment. Diverse academic research themes, from Psychiatry to Psychology, explore its potential. This includes clinical trials for severe psychiatric conditions, personalized medicine approaches using data science for optimal dosing, and low-dose integration into wellness products. Chemical synthesis and alkaloids research supports these developments. For instance, protocols are emerging for 75% of depression cases, tailoring psilocybin treatment for thousands. This represents a significant shift in Medicine, driven by Psychedelics and Drug Studies, offering fresh hope.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound, has recently emerged as a promising therapeutic agent for mental health. This Patent Highli...
Legal and Ethics Concerns of Psilocybin as Medicine.
The journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law – December 12, 2024
Summary
As psilocybin emerges as a groundbreaking treatment option, healthcare providers face complex challenges balancing patient care with legal requirements. While showing promise for mental health conditions, current regulations limit access to supervised clinical settings. Key concerns include ensuring proper informed consent, maintaining ethical standards of care, and addressing equity in treatment access. Legal frameworks continue evolving as medical evidence supports psilocybin's therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Preliminary research shows the psychedelic psilocybin to be a promising potential treatment for psychiatric illnesses. Recent U.S. government legis...
Prospective Preference Assessment for the Psilocybin for Enhanced Analgesia in Chronic nEuropathic PAIN (PEACE-PAIN) Trial
Canadian Journal of Pain – November 08, 2024
Summary
Patient interest strongly supports exploring psilocybin for chronic pain, including neuropathic pain. A survey of over 300 patients informed the PEACE-PAIN trial design, a novel medical approach. Psychology and drug studies guide its development. Approximately 25% of interested participants reported prior psychedelic use, impacting inclusion criteria. Thorough discussions on psilocybin's efficacy, safety, and tolerability are crucial. Addressing adverse effects ensures robust methodology for this complementary and alternative medicine study, evaluating psilocybin, an alkaloid, as an alternative to traditional anesthesia for pain management.
Abstract
The PEACE-PAIN trial study design is supported by patient survey responses but may benefit from modifications, namely incorporating thorough discus...
Psilocin, the Psychoactive Metabolite of Psilocybin, Modulates Select Neuroimmune Functions of Microglial Cells in a 5-HT2 Receptor-Dependent Manner
Molecules – October 28, 2024
Summary
A compelling finding: Psilocybin's active metabolite, psilocin, a hallucinogen, shows significant potential in modulating brain inflammation. In pharmacology and neuroscience, experiments on microglia-like cells revealed this chemistry, acting on specific receptors, inhibited their phagocytic activity and reduced reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide production. This neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior is crucial. These drug studies, involving psychedelics and chemical synthesis of alkaloids, suggest psilocin could treat neurodegenerative conditions, offering new avenues in psychology and medicine.
Abstract
Neuroinflammation that is caused by microglia, the main immune cells of the brain, contributes to neurodegenerative diseases. Psychedelics, includi...
Amid magic and menace: psychiatrists’ attitudes to psilocybin therapy
Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine – November 07, 2024
Summary
A significant 81.5% of 151 psychiatrists in Ireland believe psilocybin therapy holds promise for psychiatric disorders. This potent hallucinogen, increasingly central to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, garnered support from 86.8% who would refer patients if licensed. While 78.1% would consider this medicine for themselves, only 40.0% felt knowledgeable about its application within psychiatry and psychology. Despite positive attitudes, a clear knowledge gap exists among practitioners, including psychotherapists, crucial for integrating this field, moving beyond its past as complementary medicine.
Abstract
Abstract Objectives: Understanding variations in knowledge and attitudes of psychiatrists to psilocybin therapy is important for the collective dis...
Psilocybin reduces grooming in the SAPAP3 knockout mouse model of compulsive behaviour.
Neuropharmacology – January 01, 2025
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced compulsive behaviors in mice for up to a week, offering hope for OCD treatment. The compound was tested in specially bred mice that exhibit excessive grooming behaviors similar to human compulsive disorders. While it didn't affect anxiety levels, psilocybin effectively decreased compulsive grooming, particularly in male mice, suggesting potential as a long-lasting therapeutic option.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a serotonergic psychedelic compound which shows promise for treating compulsive behaviours. This is particularly pertinent as compuls...
Psilocybin reduces heroin seeking behavior and modulates inflammatory gene expression in the nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex of male rats
Molecular Psychiatry – October 21, 2024
Summary
A single dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin significantly reduced heroin relapse in rats, offering a compelling new direction for medicine amidst the opioid crisis. Administering 3.0 mg/kg psilocybin blunted cue-induced heroin seeking. This pharmacology involves psilocybin, an alkaloid, acting as an agonist influencing neurotransmitter receptors in the prefrontal cortex. Ketanserin, an antagonist, blocked over 90% of psilocybin's gene regulation, revealing its mechanism. This work in Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlights how chemical synthesis can yield agents impacting psychology and behavior, potentially reducing opioid dependence.
Abstract
Abstract Preclinical and human studies indicate psilocybin may reduce perseverant maladaptive behaviors, including nicotine and alcohol seeking. Su...
What do health professionals think about implementing psilocybin-assisted therapy in palliative care for existential distress? A World Café qualitative study.
Palliative & supportive care – October 01, 2024
Summary
Healthcare providers show growing interest in psilocybin-assisted therapy for end-of-life care, particularly for treating existential distress in terminal patients. In a gathering of 16 palliative care professionals, participants expressed optimism about this treatment while highlighting practical needs: standardized training, clear protocols, and proper facility requirements. The therapy shows promise for easing psychological suffering in terminal illness.
Abstract
Promising studies show that psilocybin-assisted therapy relieves existential distress in patients with serious illnesses, a difficult condition to ...
Impact of psilocybin on cognitive function: A systematic review
Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences – October 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, significantly enhances emotional empathy, a compelling finding for psychology. A review of 20 articles, involving 2,959 participants (85% healthy), explored this psychedelic's influence on cognition. While global cognitive function and processing speed remained stable, working memory and executive function improved, particularly for clinical psychology patients with treatment-resistant depression. Cognitive flexibility showed initial decline but potential for later improvement. Effects on episodic memory were less pronounced. This complex interplay highlights psilocybin's impact on cognitive psychology and behavior.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a classic psychedelic with demonstrated preliminary clinical efficacy in a range of psychiatric disorders. Evaluating the impact of p...
Low‐dose psilocybin in short‐lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks: results from an open‐label phase Ib ascending dose study
Headache The Journal of Head and Face Pain – September 20, 2024
Summary
Two participants with severe headache attacks experienced over 50% fewer daily episodes after low-dose psilocybin, a chemical synthesis alkaloid. This open-label trial explored psilocybin's tolerability as a potential medicine for debilitating SUNHA, a condition related to migraine. Administering ascending doses (5-10mg) to three completers, no significant adverse effects were recorded, indicating good safety. While not definitive, these Psychedelics and Drug Studies, alongside Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, suggest psychological insights from the experience, rather than direct anesthesia, may be key to pain management.
Abstract
Abstract Background Short‐lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks (SUNHA) are trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias that feature intense and r...
Less is more? A review of psilocybin microdosing
Journal of Psychopharmacology – September 16, 2024
Summary
Definitive conclusions on psilocybin microdosing, a hallucinogen derived from alkaloids, remain elusive despite its potential in Medicine. A review of 40 studies and 8 grey literature websites, found via databases like MEDLINE, reveals a critical lack of robust evidence in Clinical psychology. Most findings stem from observational studies, with sparse clinical trials. Future Psychedelics and Drug Studies must address these gaps, including dose-response and psychological testing, to validate psilocybin's use as a Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Abstract
Background: The applications of psilocybin, derived from ‘magic mushrooms,’ are vast, including a burgeoning practice known as microdosing, which r...
Disrupted Human-Dog Interbrain Neural Coupling in Autism-Associated Shank3 Mutant Dogs.
Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany) – November 01, 2024
Summary
Dogs and humans can synchronize their brain activity during bonding moments like petting and eye contact. Scientists found that this neural connection grows stronger as relationships deepen. In dogs with Shank3 mutations linked to autism spectrum disorders, this brain synchronization is disrupted. Remarkably, treatment with LSD restored normal brain coupling and social attention in affected dogs.
Abstract
Dogs interact with humans effectively and intimately. However, the neural underpinnings for such interspecies social communication are not understo...
Comparison between Single-Dose and Two-Dose Psilocybin Administration in the Treatment of Major Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Current Clinical Trials
Brain Sciences – August 18, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, offers significant hope for major depressive disorder (MDD) and treatment-resistant depression. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 clinical trial studies found this psychological intervention highly effective. Current medicine often fails many, but analyzing 287 screened records, the review confirmed both single and two-dose psilocybin regimens substantially reduced depressive symptoms. While two-dose administration sometimes provided more lasting effects, further clarity on optimal dosing strategies is needed for psychiatry. This represents a compelling advance in mental health treatment.
Abstract
Current pharmacological treatments for major depressive disorder (MDD) are often only partially effective, with many patients experiencing no signi...
The role of psilocybin in depressive disorders
Current Medical Research and Opinion – August 23, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers rapid and lasting antidepressant effects for those battling Major depressive disorder. Reviews across Psychiatry and Clinical psychology highlight its promise in Medicine, particularly for treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. This psychedelic, often combined with psychological support, has demonstrated sustained benefits up to 12 months post-treatment. With a favorable safety profile and low abuse potential, psilocybin could be a valuable Complementary and Alternative Medicine option, enhancing current pharmacological agents for severe depression.
Abstract
Depression is a serious psychiatric disorder with a high incidence of morbidity and mortality and psilocybin with psychotherapy has emerged as a pr...
Psilocybin Facilitates Fear Extinction: Importance of Dose, Context, and Serotonin Receptors
ACS Chemical Neuroscience – August 01, 2024
Summary
The potent hallucinogen psilocybin significantly enhances fear extinction, a core process in psychology. In mice, this alkaloid boosted the reversal of fear conditioning across all tested doses when administered before exposure therapy; females responded to a narrower dose range. Neuroscience and pharmacology confirm psilocybin's long-term effects on extinction retention and suppressing fear renewal in a novel context. This depends critically on serotonin neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, specifically 5-HT2A receptors. Such psychedelics, compounds often derived via chemical synthesis, show strong potential for adjunctive studies.
Abstract
A variety of classic psychedelics and MDMA have been shown to enhance fear extinction in rodent models. This has translational significance because...
AA, Bill Wilson, Carl Jung and LSD.
The Journal of analytical psychology – September 01, 2024
Summary
In a fascinating historical intersection, AA founder Bill Wilson explored LSD's potential to help alcoholics achieve spiritual awakening. After witnessing promising results in treating alcohol use disorder, Wilson wrote to psychiatrist Carl Jung about using psychedelics to help those struggling with AA's spiritual elements. Jung never responded, passing away shortly after receiving the letter.
Abstract
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an established resource for people suffering from alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, Bill Wilson, the co-founder of ...
Inter-individual variability in neural response to low doses of LSD.
Translational psychiatry – July 15, 2024
Summary
Small doses of LSD affect people differently based on their baseline mental state. In a groundbreaking study, participants receiving micro-amounts of LSD showed increased alertness and attention, with effects strongest in those who initially had lower cognitive performance. Brain activity changes persisted for a week after treatment, suggesting lasting neural adaptations.
Abstract
The repeated use of small doses of psychedelics (also referred to as "microdosing") to facilitate benefits in mental health, cognition, and mood is...
The mitogenomic landscape of Banisteriopsis caapi (Malpighiaceae), the sacred liana used for ayahuasca preparation.
Genetics and molecular biology – January 01, 2024
Summary
Scientists have decoded the complete mitochondrial DNA of the sacred ayahuasca vine, revealing fascinating insights into this culturally significant Amazonian plant. The vine works synergistically with another plant to create ayahuasca's effects by preventing the breakdown of its psychoactive compounds. Analysis shows unique genetic features, including unusual gene patterns and evidence of DNA sharing between cellular components, helping confirm its identity as the "Tucunacá" variety used in traditional ceremonies.
Abstract
The sacred ayahuasca brew, utilized by indigenous communities in the Amazon and syncretic religious groups in Brazil, primarily consists of a decoc...
Addressing a major interference in the quantification of psilocin in mouse plasma: Development of a validated liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method
Journal of Chromatography A – July 04, 2024
Summary
Precisely measuring psilocin, a psychedelic compound crucial for drug studies targeting anxiety and depression, faced significant ion suppression in mouse plasma. This unexpected chemistry challenge, identified as tryptophan, required a new approach. A novel liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry method, employing hydrophilic interaction chromatography with electrospray ionization and selected reaction monitoring, was developed. This high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry technique achieved a 0.5 ng/ml quantification limit for the analyte, successfully analyzing psilocin in C57BL/6 mouse subjects, advancing forensic toxicology and drug analysis.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a psychedelic compound found in some hallucinogenic "magic mushrooms". Psilocin is the active metabolite of Psilocybin, and it is the...
Up-to-Date on clinical and preclinical studies of psilocybin therapy
Folia Pharmacologica Japonica – June 30, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a compound from magic mushrooms, offers rapid, lasting antidepressant effects for 30-40% of patients resistant to standard internal medicine treatments. This breakthrough in Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlights the therapeutic potential of this naturally occurring alkaloid. Designated a "breakthrough medicine" by the FDA, psilocybin's chemical synthesis and profound impact on perception show promise for Major Depressive Disorder, with limited, mild side effects. Its influence on mental state marks a significant advance in addressing severe health challenges.
Abstract
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) poses a significant global health burden, with 30-40% patients developing resistance to standard clinical antidepre...
The Role of Ayahuasca in Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cell Survival, Proliferation and Oxidative Stress.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) – June 02, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional psychedelic brew, shows promising anti-cancer properties. Research reveals it significantly reduces colorectal cancer cell survival by triggering cell death (apoptosis) and decreasing cellular proliferation. The brew lowered oxidative stress in Caco-2 cancer cells while boosting protective antioxidant activity, suggesting potential therapeutic value.
Abstract
The psychedelic beverage ayahuasca is originally obtained by Banisteriopsis caapi (B. caapi) (BC) and Psychotria viridis (P. viridis) (PV). However...
Unlocking the healing power of psilocybin: an overview of the role of psilocybin therapy in major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and substance use disorder
Frontiers in Psychiatry – June 11, 2024
Summary
A compelling new avenue in psychiatry explores psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, for treatment-resistant conditions like major depressive disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. Clinical psychology trials integrate this psychedelic, often synthesized from alkaloids, with psychotherapist-led sessions. Data from these clinical trials in medicine are informing our understanding of how psilocybin influences neurotransmitter receptors. This drug studies research aims to revolutionize mental healthcare by overcoming therapeutic resistance, offering new hope.
Abstract
Resistance to traditional treatment methods is still a major obstacle in modern psychiatry. As a result, several studies are currently being conduc...
Acute Effects of Hallucinogens on Functional Connectivity: Psilocybin and Salvinorin-A
ACS Chemical Neuroscience – June 25, 2024
Summary
A compelling finding in **Drug Studies** reveals that **Hallucinogens**, including **Psilocybin** and Salvinorin-A, dramatically reshape brain connectivity. Despite their distinct **Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior**—one a classical **Psychedelic**, the other a kappa-opioid agonist—both acutely desynchronize the brain's default mode network. Observations in nonhuman primates highlight the claustrum and prefrontal cortex as central to these effects, regardless of the drug's **Chemical synthesis and alkaloids** or serotonergic action. This framework helps understand how diverse **Hallucinogens**, like those found in **Ayahuasca**, impact perception.
Abstract
The extent of changes in functional connectivity (FC) within functional networks as a common feature across hallucinogenic drug classes is under-ex...
Effects of a Single Dose of Ayahuasca in College Students With Harmful Alcohol Use: A Single-blind, Feasibility, Proof-of-Concept Trial.
Journal of clinical psychopharmacology
Summary
A single dose of ayahuasca, a traditional South American plant medicine, showed promise in reducing alcohol consumption among college students. Researchers gave 11 students with problematic drinking patterns one supervised ayahuasca session with psychological support. The treatment proved safe, with participants drinking less frequently in following weeks. They also showed improved response times in empathy-related tasks, suggesting broader psychological benefits beyond addiction support.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a South American plant hallucinogen rich in the psychedelic N,N-dimethyltryptamine and β-carbolines (mainly harmine). Preclinical and ...
Effect of MDMA-assisted therapy on mood and anxiety symptoms in advanced-stage cancer (EMMAC): study protocol for a double-blind, randomised controlled trial.
Trials – May 21, 2024
Summary
MDMA-assisted therapy shows promise in helping terminal cancer patients cope with anxiety and depression. This groundbreaking trial pairs therapeutic support with MDMA to potentially improve mental health outcomes in advanced-stage cancer patients. Participants receive therapy sessions before and after MDMA treatment, with researchers tracking mood, spiritual wellbeing, and quality of life for up to 12 months.
Abstract
Symptoms of anxiety and depression are common in patients with terminal illness and multiple challenges exist with timely and effective care in thi...
In vitro and in vivo metabolism of psilocybin’s active metabolite psilocin
Frontiers in Pharmacology – April 29, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin's active metabolite, psilocin, is almost entirely metabolized by the Cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP2D6 in vitro, with CYP3A4 metabolizing about 40%. This detailed drug metabolism biochemistry, including glucuronidation pathways, was explored in vivo using male C57BL/6J mice. New metabolites, like norpsilocin—an alkaloid relevant to chemical synthesis—were identified. Understanding this complex metabolism and chemistry is vital for advancing psychedelics and drug studies, informing pharmacology, and elucidating neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
In vivo , psilocybin is rapidly dephosphorylated to psilocin which induces psychedelic effects by interacting with the 5-HT 2A receptor. Psilocin p...
Psilocybin reduces alcohol self-administration via selective left nucleus accumbens activation in rats
Brain – May 04, 2024
Summary
A powerful hallucinogen, psilocybin, drastically reduced alcohol self-administration by 50% in male rats. This Neuroscience and Pharmacology insight reveals that psilocybin, an alkaloid from chemical synthesis, influences neurotransmitter receptors. Specifically, injecting psilocybin (0.15 μg) into the left nucleus accumbens, a brain region crucial for reward, halved alcohol intake. This effect, vital for future Medicine and Psychology applications in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, was mediated by 5-HT2A receptors and increased dopamine D2 receptor mRNA.
Abstract
Abstract The use of psilocybin to treat alcohol use disorder is very promising, but its mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. We combined ...
At the Forefront: Social Workers’ Role in Psilocybin Treatment for Depression and Substance Misuse
Social Work – May 02, 2024
Summary
A compelling finding reveals that psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers remarkable effectiveness for major depressive disorder and substance abuse, often after a single dose. This promising approach in medicine, particularly within psychiatry and psychology, is gaining traction. Clinical trials highlight psilocybin's long-lasting posttreatment effects, demonstrating its potential as a novel treatment. Social workers are crucial in integrating this psychedelic medicine into therapeutic practice, working alongside psychotherapists. This area of drug studies is rapidly evolving, recognized by the FDA as a "breakthrough therapy."
Abstract
Abstract This article underscores the critical role of social workers in harnessing the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin for treating m...
Genetic regulation of L-tryptophan metabolism in Psilocybe mexicana supports psilocybin biosynthesis.
Fungal biology and biotechnology – April 25, 2024
Summary
Magic mushrooms precisely control their tryptophan metabolism to produce psilocybin, which can make up 2% of their dry weight. When these Basidiomycota fungi transition from threadlike growth to mushroom formation, they boost tryptophan production while blocking competing metabolic flux pathways, efficiently channeling resources into psilocybin synthesis.
Abstract
Although Basidiomycota produce pharmaceutically and ecologically relevant natural products, knowledge of how they coordinate their primary and seco...
Discovery and Structure–Activity Relationships of 2,5-Dimethoxyphenylpiperidines as Selective Serotonin 5-HT2A Receptor Agonists
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry – April 22, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics show promise for mental health, influencing behavior via neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. Their pharmacology involves serotonin agonist activity at the 5-HT receptor. Through careful chemistry and chemical synthesis, a new class of serotonin agonists, 2,5-dimethoxyphenylpiperidines, has been discovered. Structure–activity relationship investigations, considering stereochemistry, identified LPH-5 as a selective 5-HT2A receptor agonist. This advances drug studies by providing new tools to understand how serotonin signaling affects the brain.
Abstract
Classical psychedelics such as psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) are showing promising results in clin...
Psychological flexibility as a mechanism of change in psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depression: results from an exploratory placebo-controlled trial.
Scientific reports – April 17, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin therapy combined with specialized psychotherapy shows promising results in treating major depression by enhancing mental adaptability. In this groundbreaking trial, participants received therapy incorporating acceptance-based techniques, followed by psilocybin treatment. Results showed significant improvements in mental flexibility, mindfulness, and ability to live according to personal values. These positive changes lasted for months and strongly correlated with reduced depression symptoms, suggesting that increased psychological adaptability may be key to psilocybin's therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
Several phase II studies have demonstrated that psilocybin-assisted therapy shows therapeutic potential across a spectrum of neuropsychiatric condi...
LSD increases sleep duration the night after microdosing.
Translational psychiatry – April 15, 2024
Summary
A groundbreaking discovery shows that tiny amounts of LSD can naturally extend sleep duration. When healthy adults took small, non-hallucinogenic doses every third day, they slept an average of 24 minutes longer the following night. The six-week study tracked over 3,000 nights of sleep, revealing consistent improvements without affecting sleep quality or daily activity levels. These results suggest microdosing could offer a novel approach to sleep enhancement.
Abstract
Microdosing psychedelic drugs at a level below the threshold to induce hallucinations is an increasingly common lifestyle practice. However, the ef...
The effect of psilocybin on empathy and prosocial behavior: a proposed mechanism for enduring antidepressant effects.
Npj mental health research – February 20, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin's ability to boost empathy and social connection may explain its lasting effects on depression. The compound appears to create a positive cycle: increased empathy leads to more meaningful social interactions, which further enhances emotional well-being. This natural feedback loop could explain why a single dose can have benefits lasting months, working differently from traditional daily antidepressants.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a serotonergic psychedelic shown to have enduring antidepressant effects. Currently, the mechanism for its enduring effects is not we...
The Effects of Ayahuasca on Psychological Disorders: A Systematic Literature Review.
Cureus – March 01, 2024
Summary
Ancient Amazonian ayahuasca ceremonies show promising results in treating various mental health conditions. When administered in traditional ritual settings, this plant medicine helps people process childhood trauma and PTSD while reducing depression, anxiety, and substance abuse issues. Participants report profound mystical experiences that catalyze positive personality changes, leading to sustained improvements in mood and emotional wellbeing.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is an original Amazonian brew made from the vines and leaves of Psychotroa viridis and Banisteriopsis caapi. Both P. viridis and B. caapi...
The unique neural signature of your trip: Functional connectome fingerprints of subjective psilocybin experience
Network Neuroscience – November 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, makes the brain's functional connections—its "connectome" or "brain fingerprint"—more distinct among healthy volunteers. Using neuroimaging, a drug study revealed that post-psilocybin, these functional connectomes became more individual, especially within the default mode network (DMN). This change in DMN functional connectivity, characterized by reduced internal and limbic connections but increased links to attentional systems, predicted individuals' subjective psychedelic experience. This neuroscience work bridges how this alkaloid influences brain activity, offering insights into its psychological effects and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Abstract The emerging neuroscientific frontier of brain fingerprinting has recently established that human functional connectomes (FCs) exhibit fin...
Psilocybin enhances insightfulness in meditation: a perspective on the global topology of brain imaging during meditation.
Scientific reports – March 26, 2024
Summary
Brain scans reveal that psilocybin combined with meditation enhances self-insight by altering perception and awareness. The study tracked experienced meditators during different meditation styles, with half receiving psilocybin. Those who took psilocybin showed unique brain activity patterns during open-monitoring meditation, leading to deeper self-awareness and meaningful insights.
Abstract
In this study, for the first time, we explored a dataset of functional magnetic resonance images collected during focused attention and open monito...
Efficacy and acceptability of psilocybin for primary or secondary depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Frontiers in Psychiatry – February 15, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows significant promise as an antidepressant medicine. A meta-analysis of 8 randomized controlled trials, involving 524 adult patients, revealed a large therapeutic effect (Hedges' g = -0.89) for major depressive disorder. This psychiatry research, drawing from the Cochrane Library, suggests psilocybin's benefits increase with dose. While generally well-tolerated, adverse effects can occur, highlighting the need for careful pharmacology. This area of Psychedelics and Drug Studies, exploring chemical synthesis and alkaloids, offers a compelling complementary or alternative medicine approach in internal medicine and psychology.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin is a classic psychedelics, which has been shown to have antidepressant effects by many studies in recent years. In this stu...