Research
Qualitative Research on Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy for the Treatment of Mental Health Disorders: A Scoping Review Protocol
OpenAlex – October 07, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin shows significant promise in mental health, driving a surge in psychedelics and drug studies. To understand this impact, a new protocol outlines a scoping review of existing qualitative research on psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy. This crucial medicine explores novel treatment protocol applications in psychiatry. Two independent reviewers will screen studies, analyzing trends in psychology research questions and methods. This effort will illuminate how chemical synthesis and alkaloids influence patient experiences, guiding future therapeutic development in this burgeoning field.
Abstract
IntroductionThere has been a surge in research into psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy over the past decade, with many studies indicating this may b...
Meta-correlation of the effect of ketamine and psilocybin induced subjective effects on therapeutic outcome.
Npj mental health research – October 06, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic experiences during ketamine and psilocybin therapy may influence healing, but their importance varies. Analysis of 654 patients across multiple studies revealed that subjective effects during treatment explained about 5-10% of ketamine's therapeutic benefits and 24% of psilocybin's benefits. The healing impact was stronger for addiction treatment than depression, with psilocybin showing more connection between experience and outcome.
Abstract
There is some evidence that the subjective effects of ketamine and other psychedelics like psilocybin are crucial for their therapeutic outcomes, s...
Effect of intraoperative injection of esketamine on postoperative analgesia and postoperative rehabilitation after cesarean section.
World journal of clinical cases – October 06, 2024
Summary
A single dose of esketamine during cesarean section significantly reduces postoperative pain and lowers the risk of postpartum depression. New research shows that mothers who received this treatment experienced better pain control, faster recovery, and improved emotional well-being. The lower dose (0.15mg/kg) proved most effective, balancing pain relief with minimal side effects.
Abstract
Following cesarean section, a significant number of women encounter moderate to severe pain. Inadequate management of acute pain post-cesarean sect...
History, Hype, and Responsible Psychedelic Medicine: A Qualitative Study of Psychedelic Researchers.
J Bioeth Inq – October 04, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic medicine researchers are actively navigating a delicate balance between historical lessons and current excitement. A qualitative deep dive into their views reveals a strong commitment to responsible development. They acknowledge the immense potential of these therapies for patient well-being, while also addressing the challenges of public 'hype' and ensuring rigorous ethical standards. This work highlights the dedicated efforts to integrate these powerful tools safely and effectively into healthcare.
Abstract
History, Hype, and Responsible Psychedelic Medicine: A Qualitative Study of Psychedelic Researchers.
Exploring the biocatalysis of psilocybin and other tryptamines: Enzymatic pathways, synthetic strategies, and industrial implications
Biotechnology Progress – October 04, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveal psilocybin, a potent tryptamine, holds immense promise for treating depression and anxiety. Yet, current extraction methods are labor-intensive and economically limiting. A sustainable solution lies in biocatalysis, leveraging enzymes for efficient chemical synthesis and alkaloids production. This innovative chemistry aims to unlock high-purity psilocybin and other tryptamines. Advanced biochemical analysis and sensing techniques are crucial for elucidating biosynthesis pathways, facilitating industrial applications, and ensuring broader access to these vital compounds.
Abstract
Abstract Tryptamines play diverse roles as neurotransmitters and psychoactive compounds found in various organisms. Psilocybin, a notable tryptamin...
Psilocybin reduces functional correlation and the encoding of spatial information by neurons in mouse retrosplenial cortex
European Journal of Neuroscience – October 04, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a classic hallucinogen, profoundly disrupts spatial perception by altering activity in the retrosplenial cortex. Neuroscience reveals this psychedelic reduces the ability of neurons in this key cortex anatomy to specifically signal location and decreases the stability of their activity. This finding, crucial for Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests a mechanism for disorientation. Biochemical analysis showed these effects are mediated by neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, specifically the serotonin 2A receptor. This increased neural "entropy" offers insight into how psilocybin impacts our sense of place.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic drugs have profound effects on perception, cognition and mood. How psychedelics affect neural signaling to produce these effec...
Psychedelics and Consciousness: Expanding the Horizons of Mind and Therapy.
Research (Wash D C) – October 04, 2024
Summary
Controlled doses of psychedelic compounds can create lasting positive changes in mental health by altering neural connectivity and expanding consciousness. Research with psilocybin and LSD shows these substances temporarily disrupt default brain networks, allowing new therapeutic perspectives and enhanced emotional processing. Results indicate reduced depression and anxiety, with benefits lasting months after treatment.
Abstract
Psychedelics and Consciousness: Expanding the Horizons of Mind and Therapy.
Rapid and Prolonged Antidepressant and Antianxiety Effects of Psychedelics and 3,4-Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Psychoactives – October 04, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin rapidly and sustainably reduced depressive and anxiety symptoms, a compelling finding from a meta-analysis of psychedelic drug studies. These compounds, alongside methylenedioxy methamphetamine (MDMA), show promise in Psychology and Medicine as novel antidepressants. MDMA decreased depressive symptoms, though its effect on generalized anxiety was negligible. While potential therapeutic benefits exist, adverse effects like elevated blood pressure and panic attacks highlight the need for rigorous Pharmacology. Further insights from chemical synthesis, alkaloids, forensic toxicology, and drug analysis are vital for safe application.
Abstract
Background: There is ongoing research into the potential use of psychedelics and 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA) as alternatives to commo...
Mechanisms of psilocybin on the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder
Journal of Psychopharmacology – October 03, 2024
Summary
For millions battling Posttraumatic stress, conventional treatments like pharmacotherapy or psychotherapist-led exposure therapy often prove inadequate. This debilitating condition, marked by altered mood, cognition, and heightened arousal, leaves many without relief. However, insights from clinical psychology and psychiatry are exploring psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, as a novel approach. This psychedelic compound's mechanism of action, examined against Posttraumatic stress neurobiology, suggests it could offer a crucial new avenue in drug studies, potentially alleviating anxiety and improving patient outcomes where current options fail.
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop after a traumatic event, causing distressing symptoms, including intrusive re-...
Healing with Ayahuasca the Plant Teacher: Psychedelic Metaphoricity and Polyontologies.
Medical anthropology – October 02, 2024
Summary
In the Amazon rainforest, Shipibo healers and Western visitors share profound experiences through ayahuasca ceremonies, where the psychedelic brew is viewed as both metaphor and living teacher. Their narratives reveal how shamanic wisdom bridges different worldviews, as physical healing experiences and vivid visions create meaningful transformations, regardless of whether participants view the plant's spirit literally or symbolically.
Abstract
Shamans, neo-shamans, atheists, and others describe gaining special knowledge from drinking ayahuasca, supporting the cross-cultural idea of ayahua...
Efficacy and Safety of Ketamine/Esketamine in Bipolar Depression in a Clinical Setting.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – October 02, 2024
Summary
New findings show promising results for ketamine treatments in bipolar depression, with 39% of patients experiencing significant mood improvement. In a clinical setting, 38 patients received either IV ketamine or nasal esketamine twice weekly. While no concerning mood swings occurred during initial treatment, some patients developed mild symptoms during maintenance phase. Overall, depression scores improved by 38%.
Abstract
Background: Bipolar disorder represents a significant source of morbidity and elevated mortality risk. Ketamine has emerged as a powerful antidepre...
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...
S-ketamine Infusion on Chronic Postoperative Pain Following Breast Cancer Surgery: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial.
Clinical breast cancer – October 01, 2024
Summary
A breakthrough in post-mastectomy pain management shows promising results. Using advanced anesthesia techniques, doctors found that S-ketamine, which targets N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, significantly reduced chronic pain in breast cancer surgery patients. The treatment cut pain rates from 48% to just 18% after three months, while also improving postoperative depression scores. This multimodal analgesia approach marks a major advance in surgical recovery care.
Abstract
Chronic postoperative surgical pain (CPSP) is a frequent complication following breast surgery and poses a challenge in terms of treatment. We hypo...
Autonomic nervous system activity correlates with peak experiences induced by DMT and predicts increases in well-being.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – October 01, 2024
Summary
Intense positive experiences during psychedelic sessions may be linked to specific patterns in our body's autonomic nervous system. Research shows that when both branches of this system are simultaneously active during DMT sessions, participants report more meaningful spiritual insights and show improved well-being weeks later. Heart rate patterns before treatment also predicted how profound the experience would be.
Abstract
Non-ordinary states of consciousness induced by psychedelics can be accompanied by so-called "peak experiences," characterized at the emotional lev...
Alfentanil versus fentanyl for emergency department rapid sequence induction with ketamine: A-FAKT, a pilot randomized trial.
The American journal of emergency medicine – October 01, 2024
Summary
When emergency doctors need to quickly sedate patients for intubation, choosing the right pain medication matters. A comparison of two powerful opioids - alfentanil and fentanyl - showed both perform similarly well when combined with ketamine during rapid sequence induction. Neither drug showed significant advantages in preventing dangerous blood pressure swings or complications. Both maintained stable vital signs and achieved successful intubation rates.
Abstract
Fentanyl is often administered during rapid sequence induction of anesthesia (RSI) in the emergency department (ED) to ameliorate the hypertensive ...
Learning to be mindful ─ experiences of mindfulness-based stress reduction for young adults with moderate to severe mental disorders.
Journal of bodywork and movement therapies – October 01, 2024
Summary
Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) significantly enhances emotional regulation and body awareness among young adults with mental disorders. In a qualitative study involving 11 participants aged 18-27, interviews conducted three months and two years post-MBSR revealed that individuals experienced improved coping mechanisms and a positive shift in self-attitude. The findings indicate that MBSR fosters a lasting learning process, with participants continuing to apply skills learned even two years later. Tailoring MBSR to individual needs could further boost its effectiveness in psychiatric care and health promotion.
Abstract
Mental disorders among young adults are a major health challenge. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has in previous research shown positive...
Defined radio wave frequencies attenuate the head-twitch response in mice elicited by (±)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine.
Electromagnetic biology and medicine – October 01, 2024
Summary
Serotonergic psychedelics show promise in treating psychiatric disorders where existing medications fall short. A novel approach using electromagnetic signals was tested to mitigate anxiety during psychedelic experiences. In trials with mice, a specific WAV signal derived from the 5-HT2A receptor agonist DOI significantly reduced the head-twitch response by 38% at 0.1 mg/kg and 52% at 0.3 mg/kg. A control signal had no impact, indicating that this method could effectively modulate the therapeutic effects of psychedelics while addressing associated anxieties.
Abstract
Results from clinical trials show that serotonergic psychedelics have efficacy in treating psychiatric disorders, where currently approved pharmaco...
Ketamine-dependent patients with persistent psychosis have higher neurofilament light chain levels than patients with schizophrenia.
Asian journal of psychiatry – October 01, 2024
Summary
Blood tests reveal that chronic ketamine users who develop persistent psychosis show significantly higher levels of a key brain injury marker than those with schizophrenia. This finding helps distinguish ketamine-induced psychosis from schizophrenia at a biological level. The study compared neurofilament light chain levels across four groups: ketamine users with and without persistent psychosis, schizophrenia patients, and healthy individuals. Ketamine dependence, especially with lasting psychotic symptoms, was linked to the highest injury markers.
Abstract
Ketamine can induce persisting psychosis in a subset of individuals who use it chronically and heavily. Previously, we found that the psychopatholo...
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 ...
Beyond fight or flight: The protective role of pre-pandemic meditation practice against anxiety and perceived stress.
Stress and health : journal of the International Society for the Investigation of Stress – October 01, 2024
Summary
Meditation significantly mitigates anxiety and stress during the COVID-19 lockdown. Among 238 participants from Portugal, non-meditators experienced a notable rise in anxiety symptoms (β = -0.226) and perceived stress (β = -0.20), while meditators showed stable levels over time. The benefits of meditation were influenced by factors like sex and self-compassion. Notably, longer meditation sessions correlated with better mental health outcomes. These findings underscore the need for mental health professionals to promote meditation and self-regulation skills to enhance well-being during challenging times.
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic generated distinct mental health challenges, characterised by stress and anxiety due to its unpredictable duration and contin...
A Phase 1 single ascending dose study of pure oral harmine in healthy volunteers.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – October 01, 2024
Summary
A key compound found in Ayahuasca, Harmine, shows promise for medical applications when carefully dosed. In this groundbreaking Phase 1 trial, researchers found that pure harmine can be safely administered to healthy adults at doses below 2.7mg per kg of body weight. Higher doses triggered mild side effects like nausea and drowsiness, but no serious adverse reactions occurred. The findings establish safe dosing guidelines for future therapeutic uses.
Abstract
Harmine is a component of the hallucinogenic brew, Ayahuasca, which also contains the psychoactive compound, N, N-dimethyltryptamine. Whether pharm...
Decoupling of cortical activity from behavioral state following administration of the classic psychedelic DOI.
Neuropharmacology – October 01, 2024
Summary
Classic psychedelics like 2,5-Dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) significantly alter brain activity, particularly in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). In a study involving freely behaving male mice, DOI administration led to a 40% decrease in low-frequency power during rest, disrupting typical synchronization. Meanwhile, broadband gamma power increased by 30%, and fast-spiking neuron activity was suppressed. These changes suggest that psychedelics induce lasting desynchronization in the mPFC, potentially explaining their therapeutic effects on mood and plasticity.
Abstract
Administration or consumption of classic psychedelics (CPs) leads to profound changes in experience which are often described as highly novel and m...
Intravenous ketamine successfully treats treatment-resistant catatonia in schizophrenia: A case report.
Pharmacotherapy – October 01, 2024
Summary
A single dose of ketamine provided rapid relief for a 77-year-old woman with severe catatonia linked to schizophrenia. When traditional treatments failed and COVID-19 prevented access to standard therapy, doctors successfully used an intravenous ketamine infusion. The patient recovered quickly from her symptoms of immobility and mutism, demonstrating a promising alternative for treating resistant catatonia.
Abstract
Benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) are mainstay treatments for catatonia, a potentially life-threatening psychomotor syndrome char...
Current Perspectives on the Clinical Research and Medicalization of Psychedelic Drugs for Addiction Treatments: Safety, Efficacy, Limitations and Challenges.
CNS drugs – October 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic medicines show promising results in treating addiction, with success rates significantly higher than traditional methods. Recent clinical trials reveal that substances like psilocybin and MDMA, when administered in controlled medical settings, can help break destructive patterns of substance use. These treatments work by promoting neuroplasticity and addressing underlying trauma, offering new hope for those struggling with addiction where conventional treatments have failed.
Abstract
Mental health disorders and substance use disorders (SUDs) in particular, contribute greatly to the global burden of disease. Psychedelics, includi...
Enhancing motor imagery in the third-person perspective by manipulating sense of body ownership with virtual reality.
The European journal of neuroscience – October 01, 2024
Summary
Enhancing motor imagery (MI) through third-person perspective (3PP) virtual reality (VR) can significantly improve rehabilitation outcomes. In a study with 31 healthy participants, a novel paradigm induced a full-body illusion (FBI) using synchronous visuo-tactile stimuli, creating an out-of-body experience (OBE). This approach aimed to foster a sense of body ownership (SOO) over a 3PP avatar. Results showed event-related desynchronization (ERD) in motor-related EEG regions, indicating that 3PP MI with FBI could offer promising benefits for patients with severe motor impairments.
Abstract
Virtual reality (VR)-guided motor imagery (MI) is a widely used approach for motor rehabilitation, especially for patients with severe motor impair...
IN Esketamine and IV Ketamine: Results of a multi-site observational study assessing the effectiveness and tolerability of two novel therapies for treatment-resistant depression.
Psychiatry research – October 01, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough treatments show promise for patients who haven't responded to traditional antidepressants. Real-world clinical data from 53 patients reveals both intranasal esketamine and IV ketamine significantly reduced depressive symptoms in major depressive disorder. Both treatments demonstrated strong antidepressant effects and notably decreased suicidal ideation. The treatment response was similar between groups, with minimal side effects.
Abstract
Intravenous (IV) ketamine and intranasal (IN) esketamine are novel therapies to manage treatment resistant depression within major depressive disor...
Sex difference alters the behavioral and cognitive performance in a rat model of schizophrenia induced by sub-chronic ketamine.
Journal of psychiatric research – October 01, 2024
Summary
Male and female brains respond differently to schizophrenia-like conditions, with females showing heightened sensitivity to certain symptoms. When ketamine was used to mimic schizophrenia in rats, females exhibited more intense movement changes and pain sensitivity. The antipsychotic drug risperidone effectively reversed these effects and restored normal brain chemistry in both sexes.
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder with positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms. In rats, sub-chronic administration of ketami...
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...
Effects of psilocybin on body weight, body composition, and metabolites in male and female mice.
Physiology & behavior – October 01, 2024
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin increased body weight in mice without affecting their food intake, revealing unexpected effects on metabolism. The compound led to higher body weight in both male and female mice, primarily by increasing lean muscle mass and water content. Even when researchers blocked certain serotonin receptors with ketanserin, the weight changes persisted. Blood tests showed altered metabolism markers, suggesting psilocybin may influence body composition through complex biological pathways.
Abstract
There is growing interest in the therapeutic potential of psilocybin for the treatment of a wide variety of medical problems, and even for the prom...
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...
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
Psilocybin-assisted therapy shows great promise for alleviating existential distress in palliative care, a difficult condition for conventional medicine. Canada's evolving legalization reflects growing interest in psychedelics. A qualitative research event with 16 diverse healthcare professionals, including nursing and psychology experts, highlighted concerns. They seek certified training for psychotherapists, refined protocols, and clear guidelines for integrating psilocybin into health care. Addressing these needs is crucial for expanding this complementary medicine's access, ensuring its potential for distress relief is fully realized.
Abstract
Abstract Objectives Promising studies show that psilocybin-assisted therapy relieves existential distress in patients with serious illnesses, a dif...
Spiritually Based Interventions for High Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Journal of religion and health – October 01, 2024
Summary
Spiritually based interventions, such as meditation and yoga, significantly lower blood pressure (BP) in adults. A meta-analysis of 24 studies, involving 2,000 participants, revealed an average reduction of 7.63 mmHg in systolic BP and 4.75 mmHg in diastolic BP. These findings suggest that incorporating practices like mindfulness can effectively mitigate high BP, potentially decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. With a notable heterogeneity among studies (I² = 96.9), these results highlight the diverse impacts of spiritual practices on health outcomes.
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of spiritually based interventions on blood pressure (BP) among adults...
Efficacy of a Mind Space Application intervention on psychological outcomes in Thai university students with depression: A pilot randomized controlled trial.
Journal of affective disorders – October 01, 2024
Summary
Using the Mind Space Application significantly improved mental health among Thai university students with depression. In a study of 50 participants, those who engaged with the app for eight weeks experienced a dramatic reduction in stress (effect size of 1.46) and depression (effect size of 1.88). Additionally, mindfulness scores rose substantially (effect size of 1.90). While anxiety showed a smaller decrease, the overall findings suggest that such applications could effectively enhance psychological well-being in university settings, offering valuable alternatives or complements to traditional treatments.
Abstract
This purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of the Mind Space Application on psychological outcomes among Thai-university students with d...
Analysis of clinical application effects of Esketamine combining Sufentanil in labor analgesia and their impacts on postpartum depression.
Pakistan journal of medical sciences – October 01, 2024
Summary
What if labor pain relief could also improve postpartum mental well-being? A study explored combining Esketamine with Sufentanil for labor analgesia in 150 first-time mothers. This approach yielded a strong clinical effect, significantly shortening delivery time and reducing pain during and after birth. Importantly, it also notably improved postpartum depression and anxiety, all without increasing adverse reactions. A dual benefit for mothers.
Abstract
To evaluate the clinical effects of Esketamine combining Sufentanil in labor analgesia and their impacts on postpartum depression. This was a retro...
Effects of Nebulization With Ketamine and Budesonide on Postoperative Sore Throat in Patients Undergoing Elective Surgeries Under General Anesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Comparative Clinical Study.
Cureus – October 01, 2024
Summary
A common post-surgery issue is a sore throat. Could a simple nebulization help? Researchers investigated if inhaled ketamine or budesonide could prevent postoperative sore throat after general anesthesia. Patients undergoing elective surgeries received one treatment. Both methods effectively reduced discomfort, with symptoms decreasing significantly over time. While ketamine offered slightly quicker relief, budesonide was associated with fewer side effects like hallucinations, proving a safer choice for patient comfort.
Abstract
Background Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a frequent issue after endotracheal intubation, caused by irritation and minor trauma to the throat....
A chromosome level reference genome of Diviner's sage (Salvia divinorum) provides insight into salvinorin A biosynthesis.
BMC plant biology – October 01, 2024
Summary
The powerful compound salvinorin A from *Salvia divinorum*, a *Lamiaceae* species, shows promise for treating pain and addiction by interacting with the *Κ opioid receptor*. To unlock its full medicinal potential, researchers performed a high-quality *de novo genome assembly*. This revealed the complete genetic blueprint of this *medicinal plant*, identifying key gene clusters involved in *diterpenoid biosynthesis*, specifically for *neoclerodane diterpenes*. This breakthrough provides the genetic tools to fully understand salvinorin A production.
Abstract
Diviner's sage (Salvia divinorum; Lamiaceae) is the source of the powerful hallucinogen salvinorin A (SalA). This neoclerodane diterpenoid is an ag...
Ketamine subcutaneous continuous infusion for depressive symptoms at home: A case report beyond pain use.
Palliative & supportive care – October 01, 2024
Summary
A groundbreaking home-based treatment offers hope for patients facing both chronic pain and depression. When administered via subcutaneous continuous infusion, ketamine showed remarkable results in improving both physical and emotional symptoms. In a notable case, a terminal cancer patient receiving home-based palliative care experienced significant relief from depressive symptoms and pain through carefully monitored ketamine treatment, with minimal side effects.
Abstract
Ketamine has been widely used in refractory pain as an opioid adjuvant. Evidence suggests that ketamine can also have an essential role in easing d...
Trait Mindfulness Moderates Treatment Outcomes in a Randomized Controlled Trial of Mantram Repetition Program for Veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Journal of integrative and complementary medicine – October 01, 2024
Summary
Veterans with PTSD who practiced Mantram Repetition experienced significant symptom relief. In a study involving 173 veterans, those with a stronger ability to "describe their internal experience" showed a notable reduction in PTSD hyperarousal symptoms after eight sessions of MRP compared to present-centered therapy (PCT). Additionally, participants with lower "nonreactivity to internal stimuli" reported greater decreases in PTSD avoidance and insomnia symptoms. These findings suggest that specific mindfulness skills can enhance the effectiveness of meditation-based interventions for PTSD.
Abstract
Objectives: This secondary analysis examined five facets of mindful awareness as potential moderators of clinical outcomes using data from a random...
Drug dependence and prescribing ketamine for treatment-resistant depression in Australia and New Zealand.
The Australian and New Zealand journal of psychiatry – October 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine shows promise in treating severe depression, but its history as a recreational drug creates unique challenges. While regulations in Australia and New Zealand allow ketamine for treatment-resistant depression, restrictions vary by region - especially for patients with past drug dependence. Current evidence suggests careful prescribing can help balance treatment benefits with dependency risks.
Abstract
Ketamine is a restricted and regulated medication in Australia and New Zealand, which has implications when considering treatment for patients with...
Effect of Esketamine on Postoperative Delirium in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Valve Replacement with Cardiopulmonary Bypass: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Anesthesia and analgesia – October 01, 2024
Summary
A single dose of esketamine before heart valve surgery can cut delirium risk nearly in half. In this breakthrough finding, patients who received esketamine showed 23% delirium rates compared to 45% in those who didn't. The drug proved especially effective at preventing multiple delirium episodes and reducing hyperactive confusion after surgery, offering new hope for improving recovery outcomes in cardiac patients.
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of esketamine on the risk of postoperative delirium (POD) in adults undergoing on-pump cardiac...
Provoking lucid dreams at home with sensory cues paired with pre-sleep cognitive training.
Consciousness and cognition – October 01, 2024
Summary
Lucid dreaming can be enhanced through a smartphone app utilizing Targeted Lucidity Reactivation (TLR). In a study with 60 participants, those using TLR reported a 30% increase in lucid dreams compared to the previous week. A second experiment confirmed this effect, showing a 50% rise in lucidity during TLR nights versus control nights. The effectiveness of cues during REM sleep stemmed from using familiar sounds from pre-sleep training, creating a strong association that prompted users to analyze their experiences while dreaming.
Abstract
The ability to realize that you're dreaming - lucid dreaming - has value for personal goals and for consciousness research. One route to lucid drea...
Ketamine Impact on Kidney Health.
Cureus – October 01, 2024
Summary
Long-term ketamine misuse can cause severe urinary problems, even years after stopping. A striking case reveals how daily use led to chronic kidney disease and bladder inflammation. The patient developed painful urination, kidney pain, and urinary tract damage requiring permanent stents. Despite quitting ketamine 5 years ago, she still needs medical support for ongoing kidney issues - highlighting how this drug's effects can persist long after use ends.
Abstract
Ketamine-induced uropathy (KIU) is a serious consequence of chronic ketamine abuse, presenting with complex renal and urinary symptoms. This study ...
Ketamine Prevents Inflammation-Induced Reduction of Human Hippocampal Neurogenesis via Inhibiting the Production of Neurotoxic Metabolites of the Kynurenine Pathway.
The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology – October 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine shows promise in protecting brain cell growth from inflammation's harmful effects. New research reveals how this drug prevents inflammatory proteins (cytokines) from disrupting hippocampal neurogenesis - the brain's ability to create new neurons. By blocking toxic metabolites in the kynurenine pathway, ketamine helps prevent cell death (apoptosis) and maintains healthy brain cell production.
Abstract
Understanding the precise mechanisms of ketamine is crucial for replicating its rapid antidepressant effects without inducing psychomimetic changes...
Psilocybin and 2C-B at Encoding Distort Episodic Familiarity.
Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging – October 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and 2C-B can significantly alter how our brains process and store memories. Research shows these substances affect episodic memory by distorting our sense of familiarity with past experiences. When people viewed emotional images under these psychedelics, they later showed increased false recognition, particularly for emotional content, while their ability to recall specific details decreased.
Abstract
As research on psychedelics (hallucinogenic serotonin receptor 2A agonists) progresses, it is important to delineate the reliability of supposedly ...
Low-dose ketamine as an adjunct to morphine: A randomized controlled trial among patients with and without current opioid use.
Academic emergency medicine : official journal of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine – October 01, 2024
Summary
When treating severe pain, combining ketamine with morphine provides faster and more effective relief than morphine alone. In emergency settings, patients receiving this dual approach experienced a dramatic drop in pain levels within just 10 minutes - four times greater than those getting morphine by itself. While this combination improved analgesia for all patients, including those currently using opioids, some experienced mild side effects like nausea during initial treatment.
Abstract
Pain is a common complaint among patients presenting to the emergency department (ED), yet pain treatment is frequently suboptimal. The aim of this...
Design and methodology of the first open-label trial of MDMA-assisted therapy for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and alcohol use disorder: Considerations for a randomized controlled trial.
Contemporary clinical trials communications – October 01, 2024
Summary
Veterans battling both PTSD and alcohol use disorder may find hope in a groundbreaking therapy approach. This pioneering trial explores MDMA-assisted psychotherapy as a dual treatment, combining supervised MDMA sessions with therapeutic support. The study follows 12 veterans through comprehensive treatment, tracking brain changes and measuring improvements in both trauma symptoms and alcohol use. Early indicators suggest this innovative approach could offer relief where traditional treatments have fallen short.
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) commonly co-occur and are associated with more severe symptomatology than eithe...
Ketamine analgo-sedation for mechanically ventilated critically ill adults: A rapid practice guideline from the Saudi Critical Care Society and the Scandinavian Society of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine.
Acta anaesthesiologica Scandinavica – October 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine, a powerful sedative and pain reliever, shows promise as a supplementary treatment for critically ill patients on breathing machines. New practice guidelines, developed by international critical care experts, reveal that while ketamine alone isn't recommended, combining it with other sedatives may reduce time spent on mechanical ventilation. Using the rigorous GRADE methodology, experts found that adding ketamine to standard sedation practices is both safe and potentially beneficial, offering doctors another tool to help their most vulnerable patients.
Abstract
This Rapid Practice Guideline (RPG) aimed to provide evidence-based recommendations for ketamine analgo-sedation (monotherapy and adjunct) versus n...
Neural correlates of treatment response to ketamine for treatment-resistant depression: A systematic review of MRI-based studies.
Psychiatry research – October 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine offers new hope for people with severe depression who haven't responded to traditional treatments. Brain imaging reveals that this medication works by targeting specific neural networks linked to mood, pleasure, and negative thought patterns. Using magnetic resonance imaging, researchers found ketamine reduces anhedonia and suicidal thoughts by activating key brain regions involved in emotion processing. The treatment shows particular promise in reducing thought rumination in treatment-resistant depression.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is defined as patients diagnosed with depression having a history of failure with different antidepressants wi...
Ketamine alleviates PTSD-like effect and improves hippocampal synaptic plasticity via regulation of GSK-3β/GR signaling of rats.
Journal of psychiatric research – October 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine, traditionally known as an anesthetic, shows remarkable promise in treating PTSD by improving brain cell connections. New research reveals that a single low dose can reduce anxiety-like behaviors by adjusting important brain signaling pathways. The drug works by regulating specific proteins in the hippocampus, enhancing synaptic plasticity - the brain's ability to form new connections. This breakthrough explains why ketamine provides rapid relief from PTSD symptoms.
Abstract
Each year, 3-4% of the global population experiences post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a chronic mental disorder with significant social and e...
Differential effects of repeated fluoxetine and ketamine administration on behavioral and pharmacological stressor-induced depression of digging behavior in mice.
Experimental and clinical psychopharmacology – October 01, 2024
Summary
New research reveals that different types of antidepressants work better for different types of stress. While fluoxetine (Prozac) effectively treated swim stress-induced depression in mice, ketamine worked better for chemically-induced stress. This suggests that matching specific antidepressants to particular stress triggers could lead to more effective depression treatments.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is a multifactorial disorder that originates from a complex web of variables and overlaps with similar disorders (e.g., d...