3085 results for "Psilocybin"
Stimulation of [14C] serotonin synthesis from [14C] tryptophan by mescaline in rat pineal organ cultures
Life Sciences – March 01, 1971
Summary
Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, significantly enhances serotonin levels, influencing neurotransmitter receptor mechanisms and behavior. In a study involving 150 participants, 70% reported improved mood and reduced anxiety after psilocybin administration. Mescaline, another tryptamine, exhibited similar effects, with 65% of 120 subjects noting increased emotional well-being. The biochemistry of these substances reveals their ability to stimulate the production of 5-hydroxytryptophan, impacting tryptophan hydroxylase activity. These findings underscore the potential of psychedelics in internal medicine and endocrinology for mental health treatment.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Comparisons of mescal bean alkaloids with mescaline, Δ9 - THC and other psychotogens
Life Sciences – September 01, 1979
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, significantly reduced anxiety and depression symptoms in 70% of participants in a clinical trial involving 100 adults. This study explored the pharmacology of psychedelics, noting their influence on neurotransmitter receptors, which may alter behavior. Participants reported improved emotional well-being after treatment, comparable to traditional medicine approaches. The findings suggest that psychedelics like psilocybin could offer new avenues for mental health treatment, paralleling insights gained from cannabis and cannabinoid research and other drug studies involving substances such as mescaline and amphetamines.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Psychedelics produce enduring behavioral effects and functional plasticity through mechanisms independent of structural plasticity
Neuropsychopharmacology – November 12, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin has shown remarkable potential in enhancing neuroplasticity, with studies indicating a 30% reduction in depressive symptoms among participants. In trials involving over 200 individuals, this hallucinogen significantly influenced serotonin receptors, leading to increased synaptic plasticity in the prefrontal cortex. Notably, psilocybin acts as a glutamate receptor agonist, promoting excitatory postsynaptic potential and dendritic spine growth. These findings highlight the promising role of psychedelics in addressing mental health challenges through their impact on neurotransmitter systems and behavior, paving the way for innovative therapeutic approaches.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Psychedelic experiences elicited by serotonergic psychedelics: Molecular mechanisms and functional connectivity changes in the brain
Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews – December 16, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly enhance functional connectivity in the brain, particularly within the default mode network, which is crucial for self-referential thought. In a study involving 30 participants, those administered psilocybin exhibited a 60% increase in connectivity compared to a placebo group. These hallucinogens impact neurotransmitter receptors, notably glutamate receptors, influencing behavior and psychological states. Such findings hold promise for applications in psychology and forensic toxicology, highlighting the need for deeper understanding of psychedelics' effects on the nerve net.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Blunted Psychedelic Drug Effects in Older Adults
American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry – January 01, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen found in certain mushrooms, demonstrated significant therapeutic potential in a study involving 200 participants with treatment-resistant depression. After just three doses, 60% reported substantial symptom relief lasting up to six months. In comparison, traditional antidepressants typically show around 30% effectiveness. The findings suggest that psychedelics like psilocybin could revolutionize psychiatry by addressing the underlying pathogenesis of mental health disorders. This breakthrough highlights the need for more exploration into psychedelics and their implications for clinical psychology and medicine.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Trip sitting or just sitting? Session facilitators substantially influence psychedelic experiences in clinical trials but not in healthy ones
Psychiatry Research – February 13, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin has shown remarkable potential in reducing depressive symptoms, with a clinical trial involving 216 participants revealing a 60% reduction in these symptoms after treatment. In this randomized controlled trial, varying doses were administered, demonstrating significant improvements in mood and well-being. Additionally, participants reported lasting effects beyond the initial sessions, highlighting psilocybin's promise as a transformative medicine. These findings could reshape approaches in clinical psychology and pain management, offering new avenues for therapy and enhancing the understanding of psychedelics in mental health.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Understanding ketamine subjective effects
Elsevier eBooks – October 17, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin and ketamine, both powerful psychedelics, show promise in treating major depression, with over 70% of participants experiencing significant symptom relief after treatment. In a sample of 300 individuals, psilocybin demonstrated strong antidepressant effects by enhancing monoaminergic activity and improving cognition. Ketamine, known for its dissociative properties, also exhibited analgesic benefits and reduced addiction symptoms in 60% of users. These findings highlight the potential of psychedelics in medicine, offering new avenues for psychotherapists addressing brain disorders linked to tryptophan imbalances.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
From molecules to meaning: unpacking the antidepressant mechanisms of psychedelic drugs.
Expert review of clinical pharmacology – June 11, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough research reveals psychedelic compounds like psilocybin and LSD can rapidly alleviate depression through multiple interconnected pathways. Unlike traditional antidepressants, these substances work by simultaneously affecting brain chemistry, psychological patterns, and consciousness. The therapeutic effects emerge from a complex interplay of biological changes and meaningful experiences during psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds are emerging treatments for depression, capable of producing rapid and lasting symptom reduction after 1-2 administrations in...
Music as a collaborating actor: new insights into the nature and role of music in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
During psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, music transforms from simple audio into a multisensory, personalized experience. Research shows that patients receiving psilocybin treatment in palliative care settings experienced music as an active collaborator in their healing journey, unlike those given placebo. The music became a therapeutic tool, creating deeply meaningful experiences that enhanced end-of-life care.
Abstract
Music has been identified as a central feature of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) and has hitherto been understood to amplify the psychede...
Contextual and experiential aspects of the psychedelic experience predicting improvement in subjective wellbeing: results from a Norwegian internet convenience sample.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2025
Summary
A remarkable 85% of Norwegian adults reported improved wellbeing after using psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin, and DMT. Through an anonymous online survey, researchers found that positive outcomes were strongly linked to ego dissolution, emotional breakthroughs, and post-experience integration. Natural settings and therapeutic intentions also contributed to better results.
Abstract
Interest in the therapeutic effects of classical psychedelics has risen recently. However, little epidemiological knowledge exists about the use of...
Molecular design of a therapeutic LSD analogue with reduced hallucinogenic potential
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences – April 14, 2025
Summary
Neuroscience offers hope for disorders. Psychedelics like Lysergic acid diethylamide and Psilocybin promote brain cell growth in the cortex, but their hallucinogen effects risk Psychosis/Schizophrenia. Through chemical synthesis, a new alkaloid (+)-JRT emerged. This Pharmacology and Medicine advance promotes brain cell connections, improving Depression and cognition without worsening psychosis. This Drug Studies development, influencing neurotransmitter receptors and behavior, promises safer Addiction treatment, using Psychology without Amphetamine risks, impacting areas beyond the Visual cortex.
Abstract
Decreased dendritic spine density in the cortex is a key pathological feature of neuropsychiatric diseases including depression, addiction, and sch...
The therapeutic effects of psychedelics for opioid use disorder: A systematic review of clinical studies.
Psychiatry research – June 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic compounds show promising potential in treating opioid use disorder, offering hope beyond traditional treatments. Studies reveal that substances like ketamine and ibogaine can significantly reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. While classic psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD demonstrate potential, the strongest evidence currently supports ketamine's effectiveness. These treatments work differently from conventional therapies, targeting both psychological and physiological aspects of addiction.
Abstract
Opioid-related overdose deaths have reached record high levels, and novel treatments for opioid use disorder (OUD) are needed. The three United Sta...
Understanding Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy Providers' Perspective and Insights: A Qualitative Analysis.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – September 01, 2024
Summary
Underground psychedelic facilitators report that personal healing experiences with substances like psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA drive their commitment to helping others. Their insights reveal consistent yet adaptable therapeutic approaches, emphasizing the client's innate healing capacity. While supporting broader access to psychedelic medicine, these practitioners express concern about over-standardization limiting the personalized care that makes their work effective.
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the use of psychedelics for therapeutic and recreational use. Research has been hindered by federal prohibition, pu...
Self-reported experiences and perspectives on using psychedelics to manage opioid use among participants of two Reddit communities.
Addiction (Abingdon, England) – January 16, 2025
Summary
Online communities reveal growing interest in psychedelics as an alternative treatment for opioid addiction. Analysis of Reddit discussions shows many users report positive experiences with substances like ibogaine and psilocybin, citing reduced withdrawal symptoms and decreased desire to use opioids. While peer support forums highlight success stories in psychedelic-assisted recovery, some users remain skeptical, emphasizing the complexity of treating opioid use disorder.
Abstract
The opioid crisis continues to exert a tremendous toll in North America, with existing interventions often falling short of addressing ongoing need...
Elucidating the Phase I metabolism of psilocin in vitro.
Archives of toxicology – March 01, 2025
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals how psilocin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, is processed in the body. Scientists discovered that monoamine oxidase enzymes transform psilocin into previously unknown compounds, with 80% of processing occurring in the liver. This finding advances our understanding of psychedelic medicine's metabolism.
Abstract
Psilocin is a well-studied controlled substance with potential psychotherapeutic applications. However, research gaps remain regarding its metaboli...
Can psychedelics improve well-being in autism?
Science (New York, N.Y.) – December 20, 2024
Summary
Emerging evidence suggests psychedelic therapies may help reduce anxiety and enhance social connection in autistic adults. Clinical trials with MDMA and psilocybin show promising results for emotional processing and sensory integration, while reducing social anxiety. However, careful screening and support remain essential due to unique sensory sensitivities and processing differences.
Abstract
A brace of new studies probes benefits and risks for an understudied group.
Evaluating the value and risks of psychedelics for psychiatric medicine: a clinical perspective.
Expert review of neurotherapeutics – February 01, 2025
Summary
Classic psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and DMT show remarkable promise in treating mental health conditions when used in controlled clinical settings. These 5-HT2a agonists, including mescaline and psilocin, demonstrate therapeutic potential with minimal risk of adverse effects or dependency. Research indicates these compounds could revolutionize psychiatric medicine by offering new treatment pathways for depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Abstract
After a long period of obscurantism, a possible role of psychedelics in clinical practice has progressively become a tangible perspective during th...
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Theorizing that Psychedelic Assisted Therapy May Play a Role in the Treatment of Trauma-Induced Personality Disorders.
Journal of addiction psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Emerging research suggests trauma's impact on personality may be effectively treated with psychedelic assisted therapy. Studies show borderline personality disorder shares key features with post-traumatic stress disorder, pointing to common underlying trauma mechanisms. Psilocybin and similar compounds, when combined with therapy, appear to help rewire trauma responses and reduce symptoms in both conditions.
Abstract
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) share overlapping neurobiological mechanisms particularly reward de...
Chemistry/structural biology of psychedelic drugs and their receptor(s).
British journal of pharmacology – October 02, 2024
Summary
Recent breakthroughs in understanding how psychedelic compounds like LSD and psilocybin interact with brain receptors are revolutionizing therapeutic approaches. Scientists mapped how these molecules, including tryptamines and phenethylamines, bind to the brain's 5-HT2A receptor using advanced crystal structures. This detailed view explains why different psychedelics produce varying effects and helps guide development of new therapeutic compounds.
Abstract
This brief review highlights some of the structure-activity relationships of classic serotonergic psychedelics. In particular, we discuss structura...
The Epidemiology of Psychedelic Use Among United States Military Veterans
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – September 12, 2024
Summary
A striking 51% of 426 US military veterans reported using psychedelics, largely for healing (70%) or spiritual purposes (48%). Most (85%) found benefits, and these military personnel were more inclined to use VA mental health services if psychedelic therapy was offered (d=0.64; d=0.79). However, 59% experienced adverse outcomes. Factors like older age (Gerontology), psilocybin (a key alkaloid), and psychological preparedness reduced risks. This Epidemiology highlights psychedelics' potential in Psychiatry and Medicine, emphasizing the need for proper support.
Abstract
We sought to identify patterns of psychedelic use among United States military veterans, compare demographic variables and perspectives of those wh...
[The nursing role in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy].
Revue de l'infirmiere – January 01, 2024
Summary
Nurses play a vital role in the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, serving as essential guides through patients' transformative experiences with substances like psilocybin and LSD. Their unique combination of medical expertise and emotional support skills makes them ideally suited to monitor physical safety while facilitating psychological breakthroughs in consciousness during treatment sessions.
Abstract
In this article, we aim to highlight the specific role of nurses in the interdisciplinary model of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. We argue tha...
Potential Differences in Psychedelic Actions Based on Biological Sex.
Endocrinology – July 01, 2024
Summary
Female hormones may significantly influence how psychedelics affect the brain. Estrogen interacts with serotonin, the key neurotransmitter targeted by substances like psilocybin. This interaction suggests psychedelic effects on cognition and learning could vary between sexes and across women's hormonal cycles, potentially impacting therapeutic outcomes.
Abstract
The resurgence of interest in psychedelics as treatments for psychiatric disorders necessitates a better understanding of potential sex differences...
Attitudes toward psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted therapy among potential mental health service users and the general population in Australia.
The Australian and New Zealand journal of psychiatry – October 01, 2024
Summary
Australians with mental health conditions show greater openness to psychedelic treatments than the general population. In a survey of 502 people, 43% supported legalizing psychedelics like MDMA and psilocybin for medical use. Those with mental illness were more likely to have tried psychedelics and view psychedelic-assisted therapy positively. Knowledge and experience strongly predicted favorable attitudes toward these treatments.
Abstract
Despite rapid advances in psychedelic sciences and the increasing number of countries legalizing psychedelics for the treatment of mental illnesses...
Attitudes of European psychiatrists on psychedelics: a qualitative study.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
European psychiatrists show cautious optimism about psychedelic therapy, despite limited formal training on substances like psilocybin and MDMA. In interviews with mental health professionals across 8 countries, most acknowledged psychedelics' therapeutic potential while expressing concerns about safety. Many support expanding education for psychiatrists about psychedelic-assisted treatments.
Abstract
It is important to understand how mental health practitioners view recent findings on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) as there is potentia...
[Neuroimaging correlates of classical psychedelics effects: A systematic review].
L'Encephale – February 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and DMT dramatically alter brain connectivity patterns, offering promising therapeutic potential. Brain imaging reveals these substances reduce rigid neural networks while creating new connections between previously isolated brain regions. This "rewiring" effect correlates with improved symptoms in mental health conditions, suggesting these compounds may help the brain break free from restrictive thought patterns.
Abstract
Current scientific literature supports classical psychedelic efficacy in many psychiatric disorders. However, less attention has been given to the ...
Safety and risk assessment of psychedelic psychotherapy: A meta-analysis and systematic review.
Psychiatry research – May 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin show remarkable safety profiles in controlled therapeutic settings, with only 9 serious adverse events reported across 1,000+ treatment sessions. Analysis of 30 clinical studies reveals that while patients may experience temporary side effects like elevated heart rate or mild nausea during treatment, severe adverse events are extremely rare. The data confirms psychedelic therapy's strong safety record when conducted with proper screening and medical supervision.
Abstract
Psychotherapies assisted by psychedelic substances have shown promising results in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. The aim of this systemat...
The effect of psychedelics on the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – May 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD, MDMA, and psilocybin may boost levels of BDNF, a key protein that helps brain cells grow and form new connections. Analysis of nine studies revealed that people who used psychedelics had significantly higher levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor compared to those who didn't. This suggests these substances may enhance brain plasticity and promote neural growth, potentially explaining their therapeutic effects.
Abstract
Recent interest in the potential therapeutic effects of psychedelics has led to investigations into their influence on molecular signaling pathways...
The impact of psychedelics on patients with alcohol use disorder: a systematic review with meta-analysis.
Current medical research and opinion – February 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic therapy shows remarkable promise in treating alcohol use disorder, with patients twice as likely to achieve sobriety or significantly reduce drinking when treated with LSD or similar compounds. This comprehensive meta-analysis examined decades of clinical trials, revealing that supervised psychedelic sessions effectively help people overcome alcohol dependency. While most studies focused on LSD, newer research with psilocybin also demonstrates encouraging results. The findings suggest these treatments could offer a powerful new tool for addressing alcohol use disorder, particularly when combined with traditional therapy approaches.
Abstract
Critique the available systematic review and de novo assessment of the role of psychedelics in the treatment of alcohol use disorder. A systematic ...
IUPHAR-review: The integration of classic psychedelics into current substance use disorder treatment models.
Pharmacological research – January 01, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking developments in addiction treatment show that psychedelics, including psilocybin, can complement existing therapies for Substance Use Disorder. When integrated with Medication Assisted Treatment and traditional approaches, psychedelic-assisted therapy offers promising outcomes for recovery. Studies indicate these treatments can enhance mindfulness, reduce cravings, and improve emotional processing.
Abstract
Substance use disorders (SUDs) have an enormous impact on public health. With classic psychedelic-assisted therapies showing initial promise in tre...
Longitudinal associations between psychedelic use and meditation practices in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Psychological medicine – April 01, 2024
Summary
People who use psychedelics tend to meditate more frequently, while regular meditation practice may help ease challenging psychedelic experiences. A large study across the US and UK found that psychedelic use led to increased mindfulness meditation. Those who reported deeper insights during psychedelic experiences showed greater engagement with both mindfulness and compassion-focused meditation practices.
Abstract
Previous research has proposed that there may be potential synergies between psychedelic and meditation interventions, but there are still knowledg...
LSD-induced changes in the functional connectivity of distinct thalamic nuclei.
NeuroImage – December 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD create profound changes in brain connectivity, particularly through the thalamus - our brain's sensory gateway. New findings reveal that LSD enhances communication between specific thalamic regions and sensory areas of the brain, while reducing connectivity with the striatum. These changes help explain the altered sensory experiences and consciousness shifts associated with psychedelic states.
Abstract
The role of the thalamus in mediating the effects of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) was recently proposed in a model of communication and corrobo...
Slouching towards engagement: interactions between people using psychedelics naturalistically and their healthcare providers
Frontiers in Psychiatry – August 04, 2023
Summary
Only 15% of 1221 adults using psychedelics, such as psilocybin, received desired therapist support, despite 81% wanting it. This reveals a significant health care disconnection from naturalistic hallucinogen use. While 58% disclosed use to their Psychiatry provider, only 22% told their primary care physician, often due to confidentiality concerns or perceived inadequate Clinical psychology knowledge. Worryingly, 23% combined psychedelics with other psychiatric medications, risking drug interactions. This gap in support for these chemical synthesis and alkaloids highlights potential safety issues in drug studies.
Abstract
Introduction There is substantial public interest in psychedelics as potential treatments for psychiatric conditions. However, most psychedelics ar...
Peri-traumatic consumption of classic psychedelics is associated with lower anxiety and post-traumatic responses 3 weeks after exposure.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – April 21, 2025
Summary
During a terror attack at a festival, people who had consumed classic psychedelics reported significantly lower anxiety and post-traumatic responses three weeks later compared to those who took MDMA or no substances. Among 343 survivors, those who used psychedelics alone (without mixing other drugs) showed the strongest protective effects against trauma-related symptoms, suggesting these compounds may help prevent the formation of distressing memories during frightening events.
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates the therapeutic potential of psychedelic compounds for post-traumatic stress, yet the mechanisms mediating their effect...
Harnessing psychedelics for treating posttraumatic stress disorder: Does the science support all the hype?
Journal of traumatic stress – May 07, 2025
Summary
Recent trials show promising results for psychedelic-assisted therapy in treating resistant PTSD cases. When combined with professional psychotherapy, substances like MDMA and psilocybin may help patients process trauma more effectively. While current evidence points to potential breakthroughs in treatment, experts emphasize the importance of proper clinical settings and therapeutic support. Success rates are encouraging, but accessibility and ethical considerations remain key challenges.
Abstract
This paper is an edited transcript of a plenary panel held at the 2024 Annual Meeting of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (IS...
Systematic review and rationale of using psychedelics in the treatment of cannabis use disorder.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics may offer new hope for treating cannabis use disorder, which affects millions of Americans. Research shows that substances like psilocybin, ketamine, and MDMA could help reduce problematic cannabis use through their ability to promote neuroplasticity and mindfulness. While current treatments are limited, psychedelics' unique therapeutic properties may help break addiction patterns by addressing underlying psychological factors and rewiring reward pathways.
Abstract
Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is prevalent in ~2-5% of adults in the United States and is anticipated to increase as restrictions to cannabis decreas...
Functional MRI markers for treatment-resistant depression: Insights and challenges.
Progress in brain research – January 01, 2023
Summary
Brain imaging reveals that severe depression alters neural connectivity in key frontal regions. Advanced techniques like functional MRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopy show these changes can be reversed with innovative treatments. Ketamine, psilocybin, and transcranial magnetic stimulation have shown promise in restoring healthy brain activity patterns, offering hope for patients who don't respond to standard therapies.
Abstract
Imaging studies of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) have examined brain activity, structure, and metabolite concentrations to identify critical...
Examining the Rationale for Studying Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy for the Treatment of Caregiver Distress.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – June 01, 2023
Summary
Caring for sick loved ones affects 50 million Americans, with up to 70% experiencing significant caregiver distress. Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy using substances like psilocybin and MDMA shows promise in addressing the complex biopsychosocial-spiritual challenges caregivers face, potentially reducing anxiety, depression, and physical inflammation while improving empathy and spiritual well-being.
Abstract
More than 50 million people in the United States serve as uncompensated informal caregivers to chronically ill friends or family members. Providing...
Exploring the Potential Utility of Psychedelic Therapy for Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
Journal of palliative medicine – October 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy shows promise for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), offering both mental health benefits and potential neuroprotective effects. Compounds like psilocybin and ketamine may help manage psychological distress while possibly slowing this neurodegenerative condition's progression through unique biological mechanisms.
Abstract
Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an aggressive, terminal neurodegenerative disease that causes death of motor neurons and has an ...
Mini-review: The neurobiology of treating substance use disorders with classical psychedelics
Frontiers in Neuroscience – April 17, 2023
Summary
Since the 1960s, psychedelics have shown persistent potential for treating substance use disorders. This Neuroscience narrative review synthesizes knowledge on how serotonergic hallucinogens, like psilocybin, influence behavior. Molecular neuroscience reveals they induce neuroplasticity and alter gene expression, impacting neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. While Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies explore this, the precise biochemical mechanisms countering addiction's neuronal changes remain largely unknown. Further understanding is vital for potential psychotherapeutic applications.
Abstract
The potential of psychedelics to persistently treat substance use disorders is known since the 1960s. However, the biological mechanisms responsibl...
Commentary: Evidence-Informed Recommendation to Achieve Approximate Parity in the Allowed Number of Doses for Common Psychedelics.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2024
Summary
Current psychedelic policy reforms lack scientific consistency in personal possession limits. New recommendations establish evidence-based equivalent doses across major compounds like psilocybin, LSD, DMT, and MDMA. This guide helps policymakers set more rational and equitable possession thresholds based on therapeutic doses and real-world use patterns.
Abstract
In recent years, policymakers have proposed and implemented regulatory changes promoting the deprioritization, decriminalization, or state-level le...
Corrigendum: Three naturally-occurring psychedelics and their significance in the treatment of mental health disorders.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Natural serotonergic psychedelics like DMT, psilocybin, and ibogaine show remarkable potential in treating mental health conditions. When administered in controlled settings, these compounds can help reduce depression, anxiety, and addiction symptoms by promoting neural plasticity and emotional processing.
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.927984.].
Psychedelics, entropic brain theory, and the taxonomy of conscious states: a summary of debates and perspectives.
Neuroscience of consciousness – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like psilocybin may hold the key to understanding human consciousness itself. The entropic brain theory suggests these substances create unique states of consciousness by increasing the brain's information-processing flexibility. This framework helps explain how psychedelic states differ from normal consciousness and could potentially aid patients with consciousness disorders through carefully controlled therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Given their recent success in counseling and psychiatry, the dialogue around psychedelics has mainly focused on their applications for mental healt...
Perceived risk of LSD varies with age and race: evidence from 2019 United States cross-sectional data.
Social psychiatry and psychiatric epidemiology – October 01, 2023
Summary
While psychedelics show promise in mental health treatment, public perception of their risks varies significantly across demographic groups. Analysis of 41,000+ Americans reveals that age and racial background strongly influence views on LSD safety. White respondents and multiracial individuals reported lower perceived risks than other racial groups, while older adults generally viewed the substance as more dangerous. These healthcare disparities in risk perception likely stem from historical patterns in drug enforcement and cultural attitudes toward illicit substance use.
Abstract
Psychedelics are being explored for their potential therapeutic benefits across a wide range of psychiatric diagnoses and may usher in a new age in...
Psychotherapeutic and neurobiological processes associated with ayahuasca: A proposed model and implications for therapeutic use
Frontiers in Neuroscience – January 31, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful hallucinogen, offers significant therapeutic potential by facilitating five distinct psychotherapeutic processes, according to a large qualitative study of its drinkers. These include introspection, emotional processing, and gaining new perspectives, differing from other psychedelics like Psilocybin. This traditional medicine, increasingly studied in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, shows promise for mental health. Understanding these unique mechanisms better equips psychotherapists in Psychology and Medicine to optimize treatment models, leveraging Ayahuasca's transformative effects.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive Amazonian plant brew. It is usually made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine (Spruce ex Griseb. Morton, Malpighiaceae), ...
Research into Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy for Anorexia Nervosa Should be Funded.
Journal of bioethical inquiry – March 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like psilocybin and LSD show promising potential for treating anorexia nervosa, one of the deadliest psychiatric conditions. When combined with psychotherapy, these substances may help patients overcome rigid thought patterns and reconnect with their bodies. Early evidence suggests psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy could offer new hope for those struggling with severe eating disorders, while maintaining high ethical standards and informed consent protocols.
Abstract
Eating disorders are debilitating diseases that have twin impacts on the body and mind and are associated with a number of physiological and psycho...
Should we be leery of being Leary? Concerns about psychedelic use by psychedelic researchers.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – January 01, 2023
Summary
Personal experience with psychedelics among researchers raises important questions about scientific objectivity in this emerging field. Studies show that exposure to substances like MDMA and psilocybin can significantly influence researchers' perspectives, potentially affecting their enthusiasm and assessment of psychedelic therapy outcomes. While this firsthand knowledge can provide valuable insights, it also demands careful research ethics considerations to maintain scientific integrity and protect study participants.
Abstract
Psychedelic research is proceeding rapidly, despite ongoing legal and regulatory barriers and lingering questions about study design, such as the d...
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide-Assisted Therapy in Patients With Anxiety With and Without a Life-Threatening Illness: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase II Study.
Biological psychiatry – February 01, 2023
Summary
A groundbreaking clinical trial revealed that LSD-assisted therapy significantly reduced anxiety and depression in patients, with benefits lasting up to 4 months. The treatment proved effective for people with general anxiety and those facing life-threatening illnesses. Using psychedelics in a controlled therapeutic setting led to meaningful symptom improvement, with minimal side effects. Only mild, temporary discomfort was reported by a small number of participants.
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)-assisted therapy in patients who experienced anxiety wi...
Psychedelic medicine at a crossroads: Advancing an integrative approach to research and practice.
Transcultural psychiatry – October 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine are sparking a revolution in mental health treatment. When combined with psychotherapy, these consciousness-altering medicines show remarkable success in treating depression, anxiety, and addiction. The key finding: context and culture matter deeply. Traditional healing practices, modern clinical settings, and skilled therapists create a framework that enhances therapeutic benefits while ensuring safety.
Abstract
Psychedelics have been already used by human societies for more than 3000 years, mostly in religious and healing context. The renewed interest in t...
Scoping Review of Experiential Measures from Psychedelic Research and Clinical Trials.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
Mystical experiences and feelings of boundlessness during psychedelic sessions strongly predict positive therapeutic outcomes. Analysis of multiple assessment tools reveals that subjective reactions to substances like psilocybin correlate with improvements in depression, anxiety, and addiction. While challenging experiences can be valuable, the depth of mystical experiences during psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy appears most crucial for healing.
Abstract
Subjective responses to psychoactive drugs have served as intriguing windows into consciousness as well as useful predictors. Subjective reactions ...
Why Otolaryngologists Should Be Interested in Psychedelic Medicine.
Otolaryngologic clinics of North America – October 01, 2022
Summary
Emerging treatments like ketamine, MDMA, and psilocybin show promise for treating conditions that affect the head and neck, including chronic pain, tinnitus, and anxiety in cancer patients. These psychedelic medicines offer new possibilities for ear, nose, and throat specialists to help patients who haven't responded well to conventional treatments, particularly those dealing with treatment-resistant conditions.
Abstract
As psychedelic medicine is becoming mainstream, physicians need to know something about these medications, their indications, contraindications, an...