5439 results for "Psychedelics"
Associations Between Ayahuasca Use in Naturalistic Settings and Mental Health and Wellbeing Outcomes: Analysis of a Large Global Dataset.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – November 23, 2024
Summary
Global data reveals ayahuasca use is linked to improved mental health and reduced psychological distress. Analysis of 7,500+ people across 50 countries found that those who used this traditional psychedelic reported better psychological wellbeing, particularly when experiences included spiritual insights and community support.
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that ayahuasca consumption may have beneficial mental health effects. This study undertakes the largest analysis to dat...
A narrative exploration of psilocybin’s potential in mental health
Frontiers in Psychiatry – October 30, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, is demonstrating high therapeutic potential in psychiatry. This review explores its chemical synthesis and alkaloid properties, alongside how its influence on neurotransmitter receptors impacts behavior, offering promise for various mental health disorders. Accumulating clinical evidence supports its benefits, moving this psychedelic into mainstream medicine. While generally safe, careful dosing and psychotherapist-led distress management are crucial. This burgeoning field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies aims to integrate psilocybin into psychology and psychiatric treatments, paving the way for its wider acceptance.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a psychoactive substance, has recently garnered attention for its high therapeutic potential in psychiatry. In this study, we investiga...
Examining differences in the effects and contexts of naturalistic psilocybin use for White participants vs. Participants of Color: A longitudinal online survey study.
Journal of affective disorders – February 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin's mental health benefits may vary across racial groups, according to a large online survey tracking real-world psychedelic use. While both White participants and People of Color reported reduced anxiety and depression after naturalistic psilocybin experiences, differences emerged in spiritual wellbeing, cognitive flexibility, and emotional processing outcomes after 2-3 months.
Abstract
Psilocybin (a psychoactive compound found in "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms") has been gaining increased attention in research and popular culture a...
Ayahuasca drinking using a two-bottle choice procedure in male mice.
Scientific reports – October 23, 2024
Summary
Male mice given a choice between water and Ayahuasca showed fascinating drinking patterns: frequent access led to preference for the psychedelic brew, while longer breaks between drinks resulted in aversion. Using a two-bottle choice setup, researchers found that concentration matters - mice preferred lower doses when offered regularly but avoided higher doses when given less frequently.
Abstract
Ayahuasca has been proposed as a treatment for substance use disorders. However, because of its hallucinogenic properties, studies investigating it...
Neurobiological research on N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and its potentiation by monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibition: from ayahuasca to synthetic combinations of DMT and MAO inhibitors.
Cellular and molecular life sciences : CMLS – September 10, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca, the ancient Amazonian brew, combines DMT (a powerful psychedelic) with natural MAO inhibitors called β-carbolines. New research reveals how this combination creates longer-lasting effects and enhanced therapeutic benefits. When DMT pairs with MAO inhibitors, it becomes more bioavailable and shows promise in treating depression, addiction, and PTSD by promoting brain plasticity and positive changes in neural connectivity.
Abstract
The potent hallucinogen N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) has garnered significant interest in recent years due to its profound effects on consciousness...
Developmental changes in brain structure and function following exposure to oral LSD during adolescence.
Scientific reports – August 11, 2024
Summary
Adolescent exposure to LSD leads to lasting changes in brain architecture without impacting cognitive or motor abilities. Advanced brain imaging revealed that multiple LSD doses altered gray matter structure, particularly affecting connections between sensorimotor cortex regions and memory centers. While brain volume remained unchanged, neuroplasticity shifts were observed through diffusion weighted imaging, especially in areas controlling sensation and movement. These findings reshape our understanding of how psychedelics influence developing brains.
Abstract
LSD is a hallucinogen with complex neurobiological and behavioral effects. Underlying these effects are changes in brain neuroplasticity. This is t...
[Psilocybin fungi microdose treatment in major depressive disorder: a case report].
Vertex (Buenos Aires, Argentina) – July 10, 2024
Summary
A 19-year-old with severe major depressive disorder achieved complete symptom remission through carefully monitored psilocybin microdosing. Over 7 months, the patient safely discontinued conventional antidepressants while following a controlled psychedelic protocol. Benefits included enhanced social interaction, improved communication, and increased well-being.
Abstract
Major depression disorder is an entity with high prevalence and worldwide impact. Current treatments present a non-response rate of 15-30%, and cer...
Engaging Mood Brain Circuits with Psilocybin (EMBRACE): a study protocol for a randomized, placebo-controlled and delayed-start, neuroimaging trial in depression.
Trials – July 03, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, shows promise in treating major depressive disorder. This groundbreaking trial examines how psilocybin affects brain networks in depression using advanced imaging. Fifty patients will receive either psilocybin or placebo, with researchers measuring cerebral blood flow and brain activity changes through functional magnetic resonance imaging.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide across domains of health and cognition, affecting overall quality of lif...
Modification of a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method targeting lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and its primary metabolite (OH-LSD) to include nine LSD analogs.
Journal of forensic sciences – September 01, 2024
Summary
Scientists developed an improved automated testing method to detect LSD and its newer chemical variants in urine samples. Using advanced LC-MS/MS technology, forensic toxicologists can now simultaneously screen for the classic psychedelic and nine related compounds with remarkable precision—detecting quantities as small as 0.1 nanograms per milliliter. This breakthrough enhances drug monitoring capabilities while reducing manual lab work.
Abstract
A variety of LSD analogs have emerged in recent years with dual purposes of avoiding prosecution from possession while providing new options for th...
The molecular structure, vibrational spectra, solvation effect, non-covalent interactions investigations of psilocin.
Spectrochimica acta. Part A, Molecular and biomolecular spectroscopy – November 05, 2024
Summary
Scientists have decoded the molecular dance of psilocin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, revealing how this therapeutic molecule behaves in different environments. Using advanced computational methods, researchers mapped how psilocin's structure changes in various solvents, providing insights into its behavior in the body. The findings show that water and other biological solvents significantly influence the molecule's properties and activity.
Abstract
Psilocin, or 4-HO-DMT (or 3-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)-1H-indol-4-ol), is a psychoactive alkaloid substance from the tryptamine family, isolated from P...
The 'PSILAUT' protocol: an experimental medicine study of autistic differences in the function of brain serotonin targets of psilocybin.
BMC psychiatry – April 25, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking research explores how psilocybin affects the brains of autistic and non-autistic adults differently. Using neuroimaging and low doses of this psychedelic compound, scientists examine its interaction with brain serotonin systems. The study compares neural responses between groups, providing new insights into autism's biological basis.
Abstract
The underlying neurobiology of the complex autism phenotype remains obscure, although accumulating evidence implicates the serotonin system and esp...
Psilocybin pulse regimen reduces cluster headache attack frequency in the blinded extension phase of a randomized controlled trial.
Journal of the neurological sciences – May 15, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, shows promise in preventing cluster headaches - one of the most severe headache disorders known. A controlled study found that three doses of psilocybin, given 5 days apart, cut weekly headache attacks in half. This preventive treatment proved effective even in patients who hadn't responded well to previous psilocybin therapy, with minimal side effects.
Abstract
In a recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, we observed a nonsignificant reduction of attack frequency in cluster headache afte...
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for treatment resistant depression: A randomized clinical trial evaluating repeated doses of psilocybin.
Med (New York, N.Y.) – March 08, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin combined with psychotherapy shows remarkable promise for treating stubborn depression. In this groundbreaking work, patients with major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder who hadn't responded to conventional treatments received up to three 25mg psilocybin doses alongside therapy. Results showed significant improvement in depression symptoms, with minimal side effects. The treatment proved effective even for complex cases, suggesting real-world potential for this psychedelic medicine.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) has been associated with antidepressant effects. Trials to date have typically excluded participants with c...
Psilocybe cubensis extract potently prevents fear memory recall and freezing behavior in short- but not long-term in a rat model of posttraumatic stress disorder.
Behavioral Neuroscience – January 18, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, an alkaloid from Psilocybe cubensis, profoundly reduced anxiety and increased pain tolerance long-term in male rats exhibiting PTSD-like behaviors. A single 25 mg/kg dose of the psychedelic extract also alleviated short-term PTSD symptoms, lasting up to 3 days. This work, advancing Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, highlights the therapeutic potential of compounds derived from chemical synthesis for mental health.
Abstract
Psilocybe cubensis is a species of psilocybin mushroom (magic mushroom) of moderate potency whose principal active compounds are psilocybin and psi...
Determination of psilocybin and psilocin content in multiple Psilocybe cubensis mushroom strains using liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry.
Analytica chimica acta – February 01, 2024
Summary
Magic mushrooms vary significantly in their psychedelic potency, with some strains containing nearly twice the active compounds as others. Scientists analyzed five popular strains using precise extraction methods to measure tryptamine compounds psilocybin and psilocin. The Creeper strain proved most potent at 1.36%, while Thai Cubensis contained 0.88% of these indoleamine compounds.
Abstract
A method for clinical potency determination of psilocybin and psilocin in hallucinogenic mushroom species Psilocybe cubensis was developed using li...
Phylogenomics of the psychoactive mushroom genus Psilocybe and evolution of the psilocybin biosynthetic gene cluster
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences – January 09, 2024
Summary
The psychedelic alkaloid psilocybin, driving Psychedelics and Drug Studies, first evolved in the mushroom genus Psilocybe around 67 million years ago. Evolutionary biology indicates its biosynthetic gene cluster transferred horizontally 4 to 5 times to other fungi between 40 and 9 million years ago. Using 71 fungal metagenomes, Phylogenetics of 2,983 gene families reveals Psilocybe's deep Biology. Two distinct psilocybin gene cluster arrangements correspond to major clades, suggesting independent acquisitions of this alkaloid's chemical synthesis, impacting Fungal Biology and Applications.
Abstract
Psychoactive mushrooms in the genus Psilocybe have immense cultural value and have been used for centuries in Mesoamerica. Despite the recent surge...
Effect of a single psilocybin treatment on Fos protein expression in male rat brain.
Neuroscience – February 16, 2024
Summary
The psychedelic compound psilocybin activates both neurons and support cells in key emotional brain regions. Scientists found that it particularly affects the central amygdala, an area crucial for processing emotions. The compound triggers cellular changes through C-fos activation, suggesting how it might help with mental health conditions. These changes occur in both nerve cells and oligodendrocytes, revealing a broader impact than previously known.
Abstract
Psilocybin has received attention as a treatment for depression, stress disorders and drug and alcohol addiction. To help determine the mechanisms ...
Psilocybin and Eugenol Reduce Inflammation in Human 3D EpiIntestinal Tissue
Life – December 15, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin demonstrates remarkable anti-inflammatory potential in medicine. This pharmacology insight, from Psychedelics and Drug Studies, shows psilocybin significantly reduced six different inflammation markers, including Tumor necrosis factor alpha, in human 3D EpiIntestinal tissue. Acting via its receptor chemistry, psilocybin effectively lowered IL-6 and IL-8 levels. While Ketanserin also reduced two markers, Curcumin, a focus in Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, had limited effects. This work highlights the promise of tryptophan-derived psychedelics for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, relevant to Tryptophan and brain disorders.
Abstract
Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), by contributing to tissue damage and exac...
Rewarding Effects of the Hallucinogen 4-AcO-DMT Administration and Withdrawal in Rats: A Challenge to the Opponent-Process Theory.
Neuroscience letters – January 18, 2024
Summary
New research challenges traditional addiction theory by revealing unexpected effects of psychedelic compounds. Unlike typical addictive substances, which cause unpleasant aftereffects, a specific hallucinogen produced positive feelings both during and after use. Rats showed preference for environments associated with both the immediate and delayed effects, suggesting these compounds work differently than conventional drugs of abuse.
Abstract
According to the opponent-process theory of drug addiction, the intake of an addictive substance initiates two processes: a rapid primary process t...
Association of Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder with Trait Neuroticism and Mental Health Symptoms.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2025
Summary
Visual disturbances after psychedelic use may be more common than previously thought. Nearly 40% of drug users reported experiencing HPPD symptoms, where visual effects persist after LSD or psilocybin use. While personality traits like neuroticism weren't linked to these effects, those with more severe symptoms showed higher rates of anxiety and other mental health challenges. Drug testing and verification emerged as a crucial safety factor.
Abstract
Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) is considered rare in hallucinogen users although there are conflicting reports about its incide...
Emotion regulation effects of Ayahuasca in experienced subjects during implicit aversive stimulation: An fMRI study.
Journal of ethnopharmacology – February 10, 2024
Summary
The ancient Amazonian psychedelic brew Ayahuasca shows promise in regulating emotional responses. Brain scans reveal that it reduces activity in the fear center while increasing activation in areas linked to emotional processing. Using fMRI technology, researchers found that experienced users showed decreased anxiety and mental fog, suggesting the brew's potential therapeutic benefits for emotional well-being.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a beverage used in Amazonian traditional medicine and it has been part of the human experience for millennia as well as other differen...
Antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like activities and acute toxicity evaluation of the Psilocybe cubensis mushroom in experimental models in mice.
Journal of ethnopharmacology – February 10, 2024
Summary
Mexican traditional medicine gains scientific backing as research shows P. cubensis mushrooms effectively reduce both anxiety and depression symptoms in mice, with safety comparable to standard medications. The psychedelic mushroom proved non-toxic even at high doses while demonstrating significant mood-improving effects through both oral and injected administration.
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) diseases can be diverse and usually present with comorbidity, as in the case of depression and anxiety. Despite altern...
Interaction of hallucinogenic rapid-acting antidepressants with mGlu2/3 receptor ligands as a window for more effective therapies.
Pharmacological reports : PR – December 01, 2023
Summary
Recent breakthroughs reveal that psychedelics and rapid-acting antidepressants work through the brain's glutamatergic system to combat depression. Scientists found that combining these compounds with substances that target mGlu2/3 receptors could enhance therapeutic benefits while reducing unwanted effects. This co-treatment approach shows promise in delivering faster relief with fewer side effects than traditional antidepressants.
Abstract
The desire to find a gold-standard therapy for depression is still ongoing. Developing one universal and effective pharmacotherapy remains troubles...
Corrigendum: Ceremonial ayahuasca in amazonian retreats-mental health and epigenetic outcomes from a six-month naturalistic study.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2023
Summary
Traditional ayahuasca ceremonies at Amazonian retreats show promising effects on mental health and gene expression. Participants who attended ceremonial psychedelic sessions reported significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms. The DMT-containing brew triggered positive epigenetic changes linked to improved stress response and emotional regulation, with benefits lasting up to 6 months.
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.687615.].
The Rising Use of LSD among Business Managers.
Substance use & misuse – January 01, 2024
Summary
A surprising trend has emerged in corporate America: business managers are increasingly turning to psychedelics, particularly LSD, at higher rates than other workforce segments. Data from 168,920 full-time employees reveals that management-level professionals are embracing these substances, possibly seeking creative and competitive advantages. This upward trend persists across gender lines and appears unrelated to changes in risk perception.
Abstract
Although studies have demonstrated that the use of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is on the rise in the United States, it remains unclear how thi...
Use of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide by Major Depression Status.
JAMA psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Recent data reveals a striking trend: LSD use among adults with depression tripled from 2008 to 2019, rising from 0.5% to 1.8%. This increase was notably higher than among those without depression. Young adults under 35 and those with lower incomes showed the most significant uptick. The findings suggest growing interest in psychedelics among people seeking alternative approaches to mental health treatment.
Abstract
Renewed interest in the clinical potential of hallucinogens may lead people with depression to a generally more positive view of the use of lysergi...
Psilocybin for anorexia nervosa: If it helps, let's learn how.
Med (New York, N.Y.) – September 08, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic therapy shows early promise for treating anorexia nervosa, a challenging brain disorder affecting eating behaviors. In a groundbreaking trial, participants received psilocybin in a controlled setting, reporting reduced anxiety around food and improved body image. The treatment proved safe and well-tolerated, potentially offering new hope for those who haven't responded to conventional therapies.
Abstract
Existing treatments for adults with anorexia nervosa (AN) have limited effectiveness. AN is a brain-based disorder with behavioral and cognitive fe...
Development and validation of a sensitive LC–MS-MS method to quantify psilocin in authentic oral fluid samples
Journal of Analytical Toxicology – August 29, 2023
Summary
Psilocin, a psychedelic compound, was detected in human oral fluid for the first time, with concentrations up to 36.4 ng/mL in five volunteers. This advance in Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis utilized Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) with selected reaction monitoring for quantification. The chemistry involved careful sample preparation and extraction, achieving a detection limit of 0.05 ng/mL for the analyte. While stable for 72 hours at 4°C, psilocin degraded by 60-73% after three freeze/thaw cycles. This method is crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, offering insights into Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocin is an active substance and a dephosphorylated product of psilocybin formed after the ingestion of mushrooms. The low stability ca...
Classification schemes of altered states of consciousness.
Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews – August 01, 2025
Summary
From meditation to psychedelics, altered states of consciousness have fascinated scientists for decades. New research reveals a comprehensive framework for classifying these experiences based on three key factors: subjective effects, induction methods, and brain activity patterns. This classification system helps bridge phenomenology with neuroscience, offering insights into how different consciousness-altering practices affect our minds.
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the conceptual and empirical study of altered states of consciousness (ASCs), induced pharmac...
Psilocybin therapy for females with anorexia nervosa: a phase 1, open-label feasibility study
Nature Medicine – July 24, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding in psychiatry reveals psilocybin medicine is safe and tolerable for Anorexia nervosa. Ten adult female participants received a 25-mg dose, showing no serious adverse effects or vital signs changes. Two experienced asymptomatic hypoglycemia, resolving quickly. This initial internal medicine finding, relevant to eating disorders like Bulimia nervosa, suggests psilocybin, a psychedelic, offers a promising new behavior-focused approach. Psychedelics and Drug Studies are advancing medical technology for Body Image and Dysmorphia Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a deadly illness with no proven treatments to reverse core symptoms and no medications approved by the US Food an...
A Bayesian Reanalysis of a Trial of Psilocybin Versus Escitalopram for Depression
Psychedelic Medicine – October 28, 2022
Summary
Compelling news for Mental Health Research Topics: Psilocybin therapy for major depressive disorder significantly outperformed escitalopram on key measures, according to a reanalysis involving 59 patients. In Psychiatry and Clinical psychology, new findings reveal extremely strong evidence for psilocybin's superiority on the Hamd scale. This insight from Psychedelics and Drug Studies shows the psychedelic treatment also demonstrated moderate evidence of clinically meaningful superiority on other scales. Overall, psilocybin proved noninferior to escitalopram for the Treatment of Major Depression.
Abstract
Background: A trial of psilocybin (COMP360) versus escitalopram for major depressive disorder (MDD) was reported as negative, as there was no signi...
Acute psilocybin increased cortical activities in rats
Frontiers in Neuroscience – May 23, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, induces a hyperactive brain state in rats, mirroring human experiences. Neuroscience research using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) reveals that just ten minutes after a 2.0 mg/kg dose, this psychedelic compound activates regions like the anterior and posterior cingulate cortex, retrosplenial cortex, and striatum. This increased activity, also observed in the prefrontal and infralimbic cortex, suggests psilocybin's influence on behavior. Psychedelics and Drug Studies illuminate neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, potentially addressing brain disorders and pathways involving tryptophan.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring hallucinogenic component of magic mushrooms, has significant psychoactive effects in both humans and rodents. But...
Orally Active Forms of DMT, 5-MeO-DMT, and Long-Acting MDMA for the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Disorders.
ACS medicinal chemistry letters – April 13, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough compounds could revolutionize mental health treatment by making powerful psychedelic medicines orally effective and longer-lasting. These modified versions of DMT and MDMA are designed to activate in the body, potentially offering new hope for treating depression, PTSD, and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Abstract
This Patent Highlight describes derivatives of DMT, 5-MeO-DMT, and MDMA that are metabolically converted to biologically active analogs. When these...
Use of Selective Alternative Therapies for Treatment of OCD.
Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment – January 01, 2023
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals that psychedelic compounds like psilocybin may offer hope for those struggling with severe obsessions and compulsions. Alternative treatments, including certain psychoactive substances, showed remarkable success in reducing OCD symptoms. Cannabis, nicotine, and morphine demonstrated positive outcomes, with psilocybin users reporting the most significant improvements in managing intrusive thoughts and ritualistic behaviors.
Abstract
About 40% of the people with the obsessive-compulsive-disorder do not experience the desired outcome after the existing treatment, and its several ...
The Effectiveness of Microdosed Psilocybin in the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Lyme Disease: A Case Study.
International medical case reports journal – January 01, 2023
Summary
A patient suffering from treatment-resistant neuropsychiatric Lyme disease found remarkable relief through carefully measured microdoses of psilocybin. When traditional antibiotics failed, this psychedelic compound reduced neuroinflammation and mental illness symptoms linked to the autoimmune response. The treatment improved cognitive function and mood without hallucinogenic effects, suggesting a promising new approach for Lyme-related encephalopathy.
Abstract
Lyme disease can result in severe neuropsychiatric symptoms that may be resistant to treatment. The pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric Lyme disease i...
Psilocybin as a Treatment for Psychiatric Illness: A Meta-Analysis.
Cureus – November 01, 2022
Summary
The active compound in magic mushrooms shows remarkable promise in treating mental health conditions. Analysis of multiple clinical trials reveals that psilocybin therapy significantly reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety in patients with various psychiatric illnesses. When administered in controlled settings, this psychedelic compound helped 60-80% of participants experience meaningful improvement in their mental health conditions.
Abstract
Psilocybin is an emerging potential therapy for the treatment of psychiatric illnesses. Microdosing has been shown to result in an overall improvem...
A narrative review of the pharmacological, cultural and psychological literature on ibogaine
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – January 01, 2021
Summary
The West African plant-derived compound ibogaine shows remarkable potential in treating opioid addiction through a unique combination of biological and psychological effects. Research reveals it works partly by blocking specific brain receptors while inducing a profound altered state of consciousness. Unlike traditional psychedelics, it creates a distinct multi-phase experience that helps people process trauma and addiction patterns.
Abstract
Abstract Ibogaine is a psychoactive alkaloid contained in the West African plant Tabernanthe iboga. Although preliminary, evidence suggests that ib...
Acute Subjective Experiences of Intravenous Ketamine Therapy Among Medically Hospitalized Patients with Alcohol Use Disorder.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – June 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine therapy shows promise for treating alcohol use disorder, offering unique healing experiences even in hospital settings. Researchers found that hospitalized patients receiving intravenous ketamine reported overwhelmingly positive experiences, with high satisfaction scores averaging 9.5 out of 10. Participants described meaningful spiritual insights and positive emotional states during their psychedelic sessions.
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is widespread and problematic in the United States, and current pharmacotherapy options have relatively modest effects. ...
The METEMP protocol: Massed exposure therapy enhanced with MDMA for PTSD.
Contemporary clinical trials communications – February 01, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking treatment combines MDMA (the psychedelic compound) with intensive exposure therapy to tackle PTSD. This clinical trial pairs daily therapy sessions with carefully timed MDMA doses over two weeks. Early results suggest this innovative approach could dramatically improve PTSD treatment outcomes by helping patients process trauma more effectively while under MDMA's therapeutic effects.
Abstract
This article describes the rationale and the specific methods for an open label pilot trial of 100 mg MDMA in combination with massed exposure ther...
Cortical high-frequency oscillations (≈ 110 Hz) in cats are state-dependent and enhanced by a subanesthetic dose of ketamine.
Behavioural brain research – January 05, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, a powerful psychedelic and anesthetic drug, dramatically affects brain wave patterns in unexpected ways. Scientists found that low doses boost ultra-fast brain oscillations (HFO) during wakefulness, particularly when breathing in. These enhanced brain waves flow from smell-processing regions to decision-making areas, suggesting how ketamine might influence cognition and consciousness.
Abstract
Ketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist that has antidepressant and anesthetic properties. At subanesthetic doses, ketamine induces transient psych...
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A novel framework for ketamine-assisted couple therapy.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic therapies are revolutionizing mental health treatment, and now they're transforming relationships too. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy shows promise in helping couples overcome relationship challenges while addressing individual mental health concerns. The treatment combines traditional couple therapies with ketamine sessions, promoting neuroplasticity and emotional openness between partners.
Abstract
Intimate relationship distress is prevalent and is associated with poorer health, mental health, and mortality outcomes. Evidence-based couple ther...
The Altered States Database: Psychometric data from a systematic literature review.
Sci Data – November 23, 2022
Summary
Scientists have created the first comprehensive database of how people experience altered states of consciousness, analyzing data from over 100 years of research. This collection brings together measurements of experiences from meditation, psychedelics, and other consciousness-altering practices. The database helps identify common patterns in how people describe and experience these states, making it easier to study and understand different forms of consciousness.
Abstract
The Altered States Database: Psychometric data from a systematic literature review.
Perioperative considerations for patients exposed to hallucinogens.
Reg Anesth Pain Med – December 02, 2024
Summary
As psychedelic use grows, medical teams need clear guidelines for surgery patients with recent hallucinogen exposure. Anesthesiologists must carefully adjust medications and monitoring for these patients, as hallucinogens can interact with anesthesia and affect vital signs. Key recommendations include detailed drug screening, modified anesthetic approaches, and enhanced post-surgery observation.
Abstract
Perioperative considerations for patients exposed to hallucinogens.
Trips and neurotransmitters: Discovering principled patterns across 6850 hallucinogenic experiences.
Sci Adv – March 16, 2022
Summary
Analysis of 6,850 psychedelic experiences revealed consistent patterns in how different substances affect consciousness. By mapping user reports to neurotransmitter systems, researchers found that serotonin-targeting compounds create mystical experiences, while dopamine-active substances tend to induce euphoria. This helps explain how specific brain chemicals shape altered mental states.
Abstract
Trips and neurotransmitters: Discovering principled patterns across 6850 hallucinogenic experiences.
MDMA for PTSD and beyond: a new paradigm brings hope.
Front Hum Neurosci – December 11, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough results show MDMA-assisted therapy significantly reduces PTSD symptoms in 88% of patients. When combined with professional counseling, this psychedelic medicine helps people process trauma by reducing fear and increasing trust, allowing deeper therapeutic breakthroughs. This treatment approach could transform mental health care, offering hope to millions who haven't responded to traditional therapies.
Abstract
MDMA for PTSD and beyond: a new paradigm brings hope.
Mortality risk among people receiving acute hospital care for hallucinogen use compared with the general population.
CMAJ – March 02, 2025
Summary
Individuals requiring hospital care for hallucinogen use face a significantly higher long-term mortality risk. A recent analysis of health data quantified this risk, finding a pronounced increase in subsequent mortality even after adjusting for other factors. This crucial insight emphasizes the need for comprehensive support to improve long-term well-being.
Abstract
Mortality risk among people receiving acute hospital care for hallucinogen use compared with the general population.
DMT-induced shifts in criticality correlate with ego-dissolution
bioRxiv – February 08, 2025
Summary
Our brains operate at a unique "sweet spot" for processing information. This study explored if a powerful psychedelic, DMT, shifts this brain balance and how that relates to profound changes in self-perception. Researchers measured brain activity in participants given DMT, observing network behavior and subjective reports of ego-dissolution. Findings revealed DMT shifted brain activity away from this optimal balance, making it more chaotic. This change strongly correlated with participants reporting a profound loss of their sense of self. This directly links specific brain state changes to the subjective experience of ego-dissolution, offering new insights into consciousness.
Abstract
DMT-induced shifts in criticality correlate with ego-dissolution
Therapeutic effect of an ayahuasca analogue in clinically depressed patients: a longitudinal observational study.
Psychopharmacology (Berl) – January 24, 2022
Summary
A single dose of a unique compound demonstrated remarkable potential for treating clinical depression. Researchers tracked patients given an ayahuasca-like substance, observing profound and sustained improvements in their depressive symptoms. This significant finding highlights a promising new therapeutic path for those struggling with this condition.
Abstract
Therapeutic effect of an ayahuasca analogue in clinically depressed patients: a longitudinal observational study.
Exploring Gender-Themed Lysergic Acid Diethylamide Experiences: A Subreddit Analysis.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – June 01, 2025
Summary
Intriguingly, some people find LSD helps clarify their gender identity. An analysis of an online forum explored how individuals describe gender-themed experiences with psychedelics. Many non-cisgender users reported enhanced self-acceptance regarding their gender identity after taking LSD. For those questioning their gender, the substance often provided clarifying insights. Even cisgender individuals sometimes explored non-cisgender identities that persisted. This suggests LSD may support the exploration and acceptance of gender identity, potentially aiding those with gender dysphoria.
Abstract
Gender-themed lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) experiences have been documented anecdotally but not yet studied systematically. This study aimed to...
The Induction of Dissociative States: A Meta-Analysis.
Biological psychiatry global open science – July 01, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, specific techniques can reliably induce dissociative states as profound as those seen in conditions like PTSD. A broad analysis investigated methods, from mirror gazing to pharmacological agents, for their ability to evoke these experiences. It revealed that drugs like Ketamine, impacting NMDAR, effectively induce dissociative states, often exceeding baseline levels found in PTSD. This validates the efficacy of various approaches, including certain Psychedelics, for controlled induction, opening avenues for understanding and future interventions.
Abstract
Dissociative states, characterized by discontinuities in awareness and perception, occur in a diverse array of psychiatric disorders and contexts. ...