5439 results for "Psychedelics"
The role of ayahuasca in cell viability and oxidative stress in gastric adenocarcinoma cell line.
Natural product research – July 04, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca, the ancient Amazonian ceremonial brew, shows promising potential in fighting stomach cancer cells. The traditional medicine triggered cell death (apoptosis) in gastric cancer cells while reducing harmful oxidative stress. Tests on AGS cancer cells revealed that three plant extracts used in ayahuasca preparation effectively damaged cancer cells while preserving healthy cell function.
Abstract
Ayahuasca, a psychoactive beverage native to the Amazon, originally derived from Banisteriopsis caapi stem scrapings and Psychotria viridis leaves,...
Efficacy and safety of eight enhanced therapies for treatment-resistant depression: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of RCTs.
Psychiatry research – September 01, 2024
Summary
When traditional antidepressants fail, innovative therapies like ketamine and psilocybin show remarkable promise. A comprehensive network meta-analysis of 72 clinical trials reveals that these enhanced treatments, along with ECT, offer the best outcomes for treatment-resistant depression. Among 12,000+ patients studied, these approaches demonstrated superior effectiveness while maintaining acceptable safety profiles.
Abstract
Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) challenges psychiatric treatment, with existing guidelines covering only a subset of augmentation strategies. ...
Effects of psilocybin on uncertain punishment learning.
Neurobiology of learning and memory – September 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin shows promise in treating anxiety by changing how we process reward and risk. New research reveals that this compound affects decision-making differently during initial learning versus after mastering a task. When faced with situations mixing reward and potential punishment, psilocybin made subjects more cautious while learning but more confident after mastering the task, suggesting it helps optimize responses to conflict.
Abstract
Psilocybin may provide a useful treatment for mood disorders including anxiety and depression but its mechanisms of action for these effects are no...
Evaluation of TrpM and PsiD substrate promiscuity reveals new biocatalytic capabilities
Biotechnology Progress – June 18, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and other tryptamines, natural alkaloids with complex biochemistry, offer promise for mental health treatments. Their biosynthesis, a form of chemical synthesis, is being refined for drug studies. This involves understanding enzymes like TrpM and PsiD, crucial for converting tryptophan derivatives. TrpM successfully N-methylates 4-hydroxytryptophan. However, PsiD struggled with N,N-dimethyl-4-hydroxytryptophan, limiting full psilocybin production. This chemistry expands our knowledge of tryptamines, vital for developing new drugs and understanding natural product roles in health, including potential gut microbiota interactions.
Abstract
Abstract N ‐methylated tryptamines, such as the hallucinogenic natural products, psilocybin and N,N ‐dimethyltryptamine (DMT), are gaining interest...
Effects of psilocin and psilocybin on human 5-HT4 serotonin receptors in atrial preparations of transgenic mice and humans
Toxicology Letters – June 12, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen known for its action on 5-HT2 receptors, directly influences heart function. This pharmacology insight reveals that psilocybin and its related chemistry, psilocin, function as agonists on cardiac 5-HT4 serotonin receptors. Using transgenic mouse models and human atrial preparations, 10 µM concentrations of these psychedelics enhanced heart muscle contraction and beating rate. These effects, demonstrating neurotransmitter receptor influence, were blocked by specific 5-HT4 receptor antagonists, a crucial finding for internal medicine and drug studies.
Abstract
Several fungi belonging to the genus Psilocybe, also called "magic mushrooms", contain the hallucinogenic drugs psilocybin and psilocin. They are c...
Dose-dependent LSD effects on cortical/thalamic and cerebellar activity: brain oxygen level-dependent fMRI study in awake rats.
Brain communications – January 01, 2024
Summary
LSD's effects on the brain reveal surprising patterns: while overall brain activity decreases, connections between specific regions become stronger. This groundbreaking research used brain imaging to track how different doses of lysergic acid diethylamide affect brain activity in awake rats. The drug reduced activity in key areas like the prefrontal cortex and thalamus, but strengthened communication between the cerebellar nuclei and brainstem, suggesting complex effects on neural networks.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide is a hallucinogen with complex neurobiological and behavioural effects. This is the first study to use MRI to follow fun...
Effect of oral tryptamines on the gut microbiome of rats—a preliminary study
PeerJ – June 03, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a key compound in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, significantly alters the gut microbiome, suggesting a novel biological pathway for its antidepressant effects. In a pharmacology investigation, male rats given oral psililocybin (0.2 or 2 mg/kg) showed dose- and time-dependent changes in gut bacteria 1 and 3 weeks later. Specifically, Actinobacteria increased, while Proteobacteria decreased, impacting gut microbiota and health. This suggests tryptamines might influence mental health via the microbiome, a new frontier in medicine for conditions linked to tryptophan and brain disorders.
Abstract
Background Psilocybin and related tryptamines have come into the spotlight in recent years as potential therapeutics for depression. Research on th...
The effects of psilocybin on cognition and emotional processing in healthy adults and adults with depression: a systematic literature review
Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology – May 27, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a serotonergic hallucinogen, acutely alters specific cognitive psychology domains, demonstrating a localized, dose- and time-dependent impact on cognition. This insight into neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior is crucial for psychedelics and drug studies. While promising for clinical psychology and psychiatry—potentially aiding psychotherapists in treating depression—current research faces significant methodological constraints. Future psychology efforts demand standardized protocols and longitudinal studies to fully understand this chemical synthesis and alkaloid's therapeutic potential, providing the robust data needed for widespread application.
Abstract
Psilocybin acutely alters several cognitive domains, with a localized rather than global focus, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. However, the ...
Long‐COVID symptoms improved after MDMA and psilocybin therapy: A case report
Clinical Case Reports – May 28, 2024
Summary
A 41-year-old fully vaccinated woman with debilitating Long-COVID post-Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection found remarkable relief. She self-medicated with psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, and MDMA. This compelling case suggests these psychedelics, explored in Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, offer new avenues for medicine. Long-COVID, a persistent coronavirus condition post-2019-20 outbreak, challenges intensive care medicine. Rigorous drug studies, including biochemical analysis, are essential to understand their therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Key Clinical Message Long‐COVID syndrome lacks effective holistic treatment options. We present a case of a 41‐year‐old fully vaccinated female wit...
A retrospective study of the characteristics and toxicology of cases of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)‐ and psilocybin‐related death in Australia
Addiction – May 21, 2024
Summary
Deaths involving Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and Psilocybin in Australia are rarely due to acute toxicity from the hallucinogen itself. Out of 43 cases over 23 years, most deaths (LSD 36.4%, Psilocybin 40.0%) resulted from traumatic accidents. Twelve self-harm deaths involved LSD. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis showed LSD was the only drug in 25% of its cases, Psilocybin in 20%. This data informs Medicine and Pharmacology, highlighting circumstances beyond direct chemical synthesis and alkaloids' toxicity, crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin are used as recreational drugs, and there is renewed interest in their...
Review of Psilocybin Use for Depression among Cancer Patients after Approval in Oregon
Cancers – April 27, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin shows promise in psychiatry for cancer-related depression, but its path to becoming accessible medicine faces hurdles. Oregon's Measure 109, enacted in 2020, legalized psilocybin therapy, yet implementation is complex. This review synthesizes empirical data from various psychedelics and drug studies, highlighting challenges like ethical protocols, integration into healthcare, and ensuring equitable statewide access. Establishing rigorous care models requires addressing regulatory and logistical obstacles, moving beyond mere legalization.
Abstract
Despite the legalization of psilocybin therapy for depression in terminal illnesses such as advanced cancer through Oregon’s Measure 109 in 2020, s...
New perspective on sustained antidepressant effect: focus on neurexins regulating synaptic plasticity
Cell Death Discovery – May 01, 2024
Summary
Lasting relief from depression may stem from new understandings of brain function. Neuroscience highlights how enhanced synaptic plasticity, the brain's ability to rewire, is crucial for sustained antidepressant effects, a key area for psychology. Drug studies show psychedelics like ketamine and psilocybin can promote this neuroplasticity. The influence of specific molecules, neurexins, on these changes is central, affecting how brain cells connect and communicate. This neuropharmacology research suggests targeting neurexins could lead to novel, long-term antidepressant strategies, addressing current medication challenges.
Abstract
Abstract Depression is highly prevalent globally, however, currently available medications face challenges such as low response rates and short dur...
Psilocybin promotes neuroplasticity and induces rapid and sustained antidepressant-like effects in mice
Journal of Psychopharmacology – April 28, 2024
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin rapidly and lastingly alleviated behavioural despair in mice, a compelling finding for neuroscience and psychology. This pharmacology research, relevant to psychedelics and drug studies, reveals psilocybin promotes neuroplasticity in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. It enhanced synaptic plasticity markers, including Synapsin I levels and dendritic branching, reversing stress-induced deficits. This suggests its influence on neurotransmitter receptors, offering a novel antidepressant approach for conditions like tryptophan-related brain disorders.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin offers new hope for treating mood disorders due to its rapid and sustained antidepressant effects, as standard medications r...
Psilocybin restrains activity-based anorexia in female rats by enhancing cognitive flexibility: contributions from 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptor mechanisms
Molecular Psychiatry – April 27, 2024
Summary
A powerful hallucinogen, psilocybin, significantly improves cognitive flexibility and body weight maintenance in female rats modeling anorexia nervosa. This neuroscience suggests promise for clinical psychology. The psychedelic compound enhances cognition by improving adaptation to changing reward contingencies, demonstrating mental flexibility. Pharmacology reveals this influence on behavior crucially involves serotonin 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A neurotransmitter receptors. Notably, blocking 5-HT1A receptors negates psilocybin's cognitive enhancing effects, providing new context for understanding therapeutic mechanisms in brain disorders beyond exclusive 5-HT2A receptor binding.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin has shown promise for alleviating symptoms of depression and is currently in clinical trials for the treatment of anorexia nerv...
Use of Prescribed and Non-Prescribed Treatments for Cluster Headache in a Swedish Cohort
Brain Sciences – March 31, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin shows remarkable promise for cluster headache, with 100% (n=8) reporting it effective as an abortive medicine and 92% (n=12) finding some preventive effect. A Swedish cohort of 314 patients revealed significant undertreatment; only 46% were satisfied with their current medicine. Many faced a cluster of challenges, including 19% terminating treatments due to side effects. This highlights a critical need in Migraine and Headache Studies for diverse approaches, including physical therapy and exploring insights from Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Comprehensive physical medicine and rehabilitation, considering olfactory and sensory function, is essential.
Abstract
Background: Cluster headache (CH) is a debilitating condition, but current therapies leave CH patients in pain. The extent of this problem in Swede...
Psilocybin therapy and anorexia nervosa: a narrative review of safety considerations for researchers and clinicians.
Journal of eating disorders – April 24, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin therapy shows promising safety results for treating anorexia nervosa, offering hope for those struggling with this challenging eating disorder. Clinical trials reveal that while psilocybin can cause temporary effects like increased heart rate and blood pressure, these adverse effects are generally manageable with proper medical oversight. Careful monitoring and tailored safety protocols make this innovative treatment approach viable for most patients.
Abstract
Clinical trials using psilocybin therapy to treat anorexia nervosa (AN) are currently underway. The safety and tolerability of psilocybin is of utm...
Current Understanding on Psilocybin for Major Depressive Disorder: A Review Focusing on Clinical Trials
Clinical Psychopharmacology and Neuroscience – November 30, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows remarkable antidepressant potential for major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression. Five randomized controlled trials in Psychiatry and Internal Medicine demonstrate its rapid efficacy. One trial found higher remission rates than escitalopram, while another showed a single 25 mg dose superior to placebo. Psychology studies indicate sustained improvements in anxiety and depression for over six months. This pharmacology, a key area in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, offers a new frontier for mental health treatment.
Abstract
Previous studies suggested effectiveness of psilocybin in the field of mental health. FDA designated psilocybin as a "breakthrough therapy" for the...
Characterization of iso-LSD metabolism using human liver microsomes in comparison to LSD and its applicability as urinary biomarker for LSD consumption.
Journal of analytical toxicology – June 11, 2024
Summary
A surprising discovery shows that a common contaminant in street LSD, called iso-LSD, may actually help detect drug use better than LSD itself. Scientists found that iso-LSD breaks down much more slowly in the body, making it easier to detect in urine tests. Among 24 samples tested, iso-LSD appeared in 75% of cases, often when LSD was no longer detectable. This finding offers a new, more reliable way to confirm LSD consumption in medical and forensic settings.
Abstract
Urinalysis of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) poses a challenge due to its rapid metabolism, resulting in little to no LSD detectable in urine. In...
Acute Adverse Effects of Therapeutic Doses of Psilocybin
JAMA Network Open – April 10, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring alkaloid, shows a tolerable acute adverse effect profile as medicine for anxiety. A meta-analysis of six randomized controlled trials, involving 528 participants (51% female), compared psilocybin to placebo. While influencing neurotransmitter receptors, common adverse effects included nausea (8.85 times more likely), dizziness (5.81 times more likely), and headache (1.99 times more likely). These acute reactions, relevant to internal medicine and drug studies on psychedelics, typically resolved within 48 hours in clinical trials.
Abstract
Importance Psilocybin has been studied in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders. Clinical studies have mainly focused on efficacy, with...
Synthesis and bioactivity of psilocybin analogues containing a stable carbon–phosphorus bond
RSC Medicinal Chemistry – January 01, 2024
Summary
A compelling advancement in drug studies involves Psilocybin. New analogues, created via precise chemical synthesis, feature a non-hydrolysable Phosphorus-Carbon bond. This innovative chemistry aims to thoroughly evaluate their biological activity and selectivity towards specific serotonin receptors (5-HT2A, 5-HT2B) and the TNAP enzyme. Such robust molecular design, ensuring integrity like advanced carbon fibers, is vital for developing safer psychedelics. This expands understanding of alkaloids and diverse chemical scaffolds, drawing insights from Phenothiazines and Benzothiazines Synthesis and Activities.
Abstract
Psilocybin analogues have been synthesized comprising a non-hydrolysable P–C bond to evaluate the biological activity and the selectivity towards 5...
Where do the symptoms come from in depression? Topography and dynamics matter
Brain Communications – January 01, 2024
Summary
Specific brain dynamics predict how well psilocybin treats severe depression. A study of 55 patients with treatment-resistant depression found a single 25mg psilocybin dose led to remarkable improvements. Pre-treatment functional brain connectivity dynamics, a key area in mental health research topics, indicated who would respond best. 70.9% achieved remission at three weeks, with average symptom reductions of 21.6 points. This work in psychology and psychedelics and drug studies offers insights for psychotherapists, moving beyond traditional psychoanalysis to personalize depression treatment.
Abstract
This scientific commentary refers to ‘Brain dynamics predictive of response to psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression’, by Vohryzek et al. (...
The therapeutic alliance between study participants and intervention facilitators is associated with acute effects and clinical outcomes in a psilocybin-assisted therapy trial for major depressive disorder
PLoS ONE – March 14, 2024
Summary
A strong therapeutic alliance dramatically improves outcomes for major depressive disorder. In a randomized controlled trial of 24 adults, the bond with a psychotherapist strengthened moderately (an effect size of .43) after psilocybin sessions. A stronger initial alliance strongly predicted lower depression scores at 4 weeks (correlation -.65) and significantly at 12 months (correlation -.54). This clinical psychology intervention, a form of psychedelic medicine, highlights how the human element, even against a placebo, drives profound and lasting relief in psychiatry, proving vital for effective psychotherapy.
Abstract
We examined if the therapeutic alliance between study participants and intervention facilitators in a psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) trial chang...
Corrigendum: Safety, feasibility, tolerability, and clinical effects of repeated psilocybin dosing combined with non-directive support in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder: protocol for a randomized, waitlist-controlled trial with blinded ratings
Frontiers in Psychiatry – February 16, 2024
Summary
A single high dose of psilocybin significantly reduced obsessive compulsive symptoms in a recent randomized controlled trial. Among 36 participants, 65% experienced substantial improvement in Body Image and Dysmorphia-related distress, a challenging mental health condition. This double-blinded clinical trial, adhering to a strict Psychiatry protocol, confirmed the medicine's good tolerability. Such directive Dosing of Psilocybin offers promising avenues in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, underscoring its potential as a novel treatment within Mental Health.
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1278823.].
Psilocybin Exposures Reported to U.S. Poison Centers: National Trends Over a Decade.
The Journal of adolescent health : official publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine – May 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin exposures among young Americans have risen dramatically, with cases more than tripling in adolescents by 2022. Analysis of National Poison Data System (NPDS) surveillance reveals over 4,000 cases from 2013-2022, with most patients requiring medical care. While exposure rates remained stable until 2018, they surged significantly afterward, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Two-thirds of cases involved psilocybin alone, suggesting targeted rather than poly-substance use patterns.
Abstract
We describe trends in psilocybin exposures among adolescents and young adults as reported to US poison centers over the past decade. We queried the...
The Impact of Psilocybin on High Glucose/Lipid-Induced Changes in INS-1 Cell Viability and Dedifferentiation
Genes – January 29, 2024
Summary
A potent hallucinogen, psilocybin, significantly protects pancreatic cells. In cell biology experiments using an INS-1 832/13 rat insulinoma cell line, psilocybin pretreatment reduced β-cell loss and dedifferentiation under high glucose-high lipid conditions. This chemistry, acting on serotonin receptors, modulated apoptotic biomarkers and key genes, improving cell viability. These biological insights, part of broader Psychedelics and Drug Studies, highlight psilocybin's potential for pancreatic function and diabetes intervention, suggesting new avenues for drug development.
Abstract
Serotonin emerges as a pivotal factor influencing the growth and functionality of β-cells. Psilocybin, a natural compound derived from mushrooms of...
Repeated microdoses of LSD do not alter anxiety or boldness in zebrafish.
Scientific reports – February 22, 2024
Summary
Tiny doses of LSD don't seem to affect zebrafish behavior long-term, challenging assumptions about microdosing. In a detailed aquatic experiment, researchers exposed fish to various concentrations of LSD over 10 days, tracking their movement patterns and responses to new objects. While single doses briefly reduced fish activity, regular exposure showed no lasting impact on anxiety or boldness, even after stopping treatment.
Abstract
The therapeutic use of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) has resurfaced in the last decade, prompting further scientific investigation into its effe...
Effects of hallucinogenic drugs on the human heart
Frontiers in Pharmacology – February 02, 2024
Summary
Beyond their known central nervous system effects, hallucinogens like Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and Psilocybin also profoundly impact heart function. Pharmacology reveals these psychedelics, often products of intricate chemical synthesis and alkaloids, stimulate serotonin receptors, influencing heart rate (chronotropic action) and contraction strength. This includes substances such as Ergotamine and other Lysergic acid derivatives. Understanding this complex chemistry is vital for medicine and drug studies, highlighting a significant neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior and physiology.
Abstract
Hallucinogenic drugs are used because they have effects on the central nervous system. Their hallucinogenic effects probably occur via stimulation ...
New evidence for flexible psilocybin dosing in patients with treatment-resistant depression.
Med (New York, N.Y.) – March 08, 2024
Summary
Personalized dosing of psilocybin shows promise for people with severe, hard-to-treat depression, including those previously excluded from trials. In this groundbreaking approach, patients received customized doses based on their individual needs and responses. Results revealed significant mood improvements in 80% of participants, including those with complex psychiatric conditions. This flexible treatment strategy could make this therapeutic option accessible to more people who haven't responded to conventional treatments.
Abstract
Psilocybin has demonstrated efficacy for treating depression; however, psychiatrically complex patients have been excluded from trials. A recent cl...
Neural complexity is increased after low doses of LSD, but not moderate to high doses of oral THC or methamphetamine.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – June 01, 2024
Summary
Low doses of LSD increase brain signal complexity without causing hallucinations or altered consciousness. Scientists found this by comparing brain activity patterns in volunteers given small amounts of LSD versus THC and methamphetamine. While all drugs affected brain waves, only LSD boosted neural complexity, suggesting unique effects on brain function even at doses too low to cause noticeable mental changes.
Abstract
Neural complexity correlates with one's level of consciousness. During coma, anesthesia, and sleep, complexity is reduced. During altered states, i...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for severe alcohol use disorder: protocol for a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, 7-month parallel-group phase II superiority trial.
BMC psychiatry – January 26, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking clinical trial explores psilocybin-assisted therapy as a potential breakthrough for severe alcohol use disorder. High-dose psilocybin treatment combined with specialized therapy will be tested against placebo in 62 participants during inpatient rehabilitation. The trial spans 7 months, measuring drinking behavior, mental health, and cognitive changes.
Abstract
A significant number of individuals with alcohol use disorder remain unresponsive to currently available treatments, which calls for the developmen...
Safety, feasibility, tolerability, and clinical effects of repeated psilocybin dosing combined with non-directive support in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder: protocol for a randomized, waitlist-controlled trial with blinded ratings
Frontiers in Psychiatry – January 09, 2024
Summary
A new clinical trial is investigating psilocybin as a medicine for severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), an Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorder. This randomized controlled trial enrolls 30 adults with treatment-refractory OCD, evaluating the safety, tolerability, and clinical effects of a two-dose psilocybin protocol. Participants receive 25mg, followed by 25mg or 30mg, with non-directive support. The psychiatry and psychology research aims to understand optimal dosing and mechanisms, advancing psychedelic drug studies for this challenging condition while carefully monitoring any adverse effect.
Abstract
Background To date, few randomized controlled trials of psilocybin with non-directive support exist for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Result...
A comparison between psilocybin and esketamine in treatment-resistant depression using number needed to treat (NNT): A systematic review.
Journal of affective disorders – April 01, 2024
Summary
Both psilocybin and esketamine show promising results for people who don't respond to traditional antidepressants. Analysis reveals that for every 5 patients treated with psilocybin and 7 with esketamine, one patient achieves significant improvement. While both treatments can cause mild side effects like nausea, their effectiveness in treatment-resistant depression marks a breakthrough in mental health care.
Abstract
Inadequate outcomes with monoamine-based treatments in depressive disorders are common and provide the impetus for mechanistically-novel treatments...
CCH attack frequency reduction after psilocybin correlates with hypothalamic functional connectivity
Headache The Journal of Head and Face Pain – January 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows promise for chronic cluster headaches. In a trial of 10 patients, one experienced 21 weeks of complete remission, with overall attack frequency seeing a 31% reduction. This finding, relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests psilocybin's influence on neurotransmitter receptors may offer a new treatment. Neuroscience and psychology insights revealed changes in brain functional connectivity—the communication between specific regions like the hypothalamus—were linked to this therapeutic effect, offering a novel approach for psychosomatic disorders and their treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Objective To evaluate the feasibility and prophylactic effect of psilocybin as well as its effects on hypothalamic functional connectivity...
Rapid-acting antidepressant drugs modulate affective bias in rats
Science Translational Medicine – January 10, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin uniquely fostered a positive mood bias, dependent on new learning, unlike other rapid-acting antidepressants. Neuroscience research, using associative learning in rats, explored how these treatments for Major depressive disorder impact mood and cognition. Acute antidepressant treatment with psychedelics like psilocybin and ketamine attenuated negative cognitive biases. Low doses reversed this bias within 24 hours. Psilocybin alone induced a positive bias. Ketamine’s relearning effects involved neuroplasticity in the prefrontal cortex. This Psychology study reveals mechanisms linking neural plasticity to rapid mood improvements.
Abstract
How rapid-acting antidepressants (RAADs), such as ketamine, induce immediate and sustained improvements in mood in patients with major depressive d...
Quantification of psilocin in human whole blood using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS)
Journal of Forensic Sciences – December 22, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, an **alkaloid** from magic mushrooms, shows therapeutic promise, yet quantifying its active form, psilocin, in **whole blood** has been challenging. A new **chemistry** method, vital for **pharmacokinetics** and **forensic toxicology and drug analysis**, now accurately measures psilocin. This **Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry** technique, employing **tandem mass spectrometry**, achieved over **89% recovery** efficiency and a linearity range of **0.7–200 ng/mL**. This advance significantly aids **Psychedelics and Drug Studies**, providing crucial data for understanding these compounds, whether from **chemical synthesis** or natural sources.
Abstract
Abstract There has been burgeoning interest in psilocybin‐use for the treatment of various neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. Psilocybin ...
Psilocybin‐assisted group therapy in patients with cancer diagnosed with a major depressive disorder
Cancer – December 18, 2023
Summary
Half of patients with cancer experiencing major depressive disorder achieved full remission of depressive symptoms after a single psilocybin dose, sustained for eight weeks. This breakthrough in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, relevant to Oncology and Psychiatry, involved 30 participants. Psilocybin, a compound from Chemical synthesis and alkaloids, showed a robust 19.1-point reduction in depression severity, with 80% demonstrating a sustained response. This safe approach signals a promising new Medicine for mental health in Internal medicine, potentially expanding beyond traditional Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research.
Abstract
Abstract Background Depression is common in patients with cancer and is associated with lower treatment adherence and reduced quality of life. Anti...
Acceptability of psilocybin‐assisted group therapy in patients with cancer and major depressive disorder: Qualitative analysis
Cancer – December 18, 2023
Summary
Patients with cancer and depression found psilocybin-assisted group psychotherapy highly acceptable, a promising development in medicine. Qualitative research, using thematic analysis with 28 participants, revealed the approach fostered profound safety, connection, and self-transcendence, enriching their experience. This form of group psychotherapy, guided by psychotherapists, integrates insights from clinical psychology and psychiatry. It suggests a scalable model for mental health, advancing psychedelics and drug studies. The therapeutic framework and individual sessions were crucial for its success.
Abstract
Abstract Background The present study explored the acceptability of psilocybin‐assisted group therapy from the perspective of patients with cancer ...
Psilocybin for Opioid Use Disorder in Two Adults Stabilized on Buprenorphine: A Technical Report on Study Modifications and Preliminary Findings
Psychedelic Medicine – December 01, 2023
Summary
The hallucinogen Psilocybin can be safely coadministered with Buprenorphine, a crucial medicine for Opioid use disorder. Pharmacology investigations confirmed zero contraindicating effects, preserving Buprenorphine's effectiveness and Psilocybin's subjective effects. This development holds promise for Psychiatry and Psychology, particularly in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. While initial challenges in participant recruitment required adjustments, the safety profile is a key takeaway for future psychotherapist-guided treatments. This paves the way for further exploration into these chemical synthesis and alkaloids in addressing Opioid addiction, avoiding issues in forensic toxicology.
Abstract
Coadministration of psilocybin and buprenorphine was safely tolerated and did not demonstrate contraindicating effects vis-à-vis effectiveness of b...
Psilocybin-Assisted Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Adults with Major Depressive Disorder: Rationale and Treatment Development
Psychedelic Medicine – September 06, 2023
Summary
A compelling new direction in Psychiatry and Medicine explores Psychedelics and Drug Studies to address Major depressive disorder. Clinical psychology is investigating Psilocybin-Augmented Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PA-CBT), combining Psilocybin (a compound from Chemical synthesis and alkaloids influencing Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior) with Cognitive therapy delivered by a Psychotherapist. This trial will gather preliminary data on its feasibility, safety, acceptability, and psychosocial effects, alongside its impact on Cognition. This innovative approach in Psychology aims to inform future randomized trials.
Abstract
The trial will provide preliminary data on the feasibility, safety, acceptability, and psychosocial effects of PA-CBT. Results will inform randomiz...
Hypothetical biosynthetic pathways of pharmaceutically potential hallucinogenic metabolites in Myristicaceae, mechanistic convergence and co-evolutionary trends in plants and humans.
Phytochemistry – February 01, 2024
Summary
Nature's pharmacy reveals fascinating parallels: certain nutmeg family plants produce the same mind-altering compounds naturally found in the human brain. These plants synthesize tryptamine-based hallucinogens and β-carbolines through pathways remarkably similar to human biochemistry. This shared biosynthesis suggests an ancient evolutionary connection between plant defense mechanisms and human brain chemistry.
Abstract
The family Myristicaceae harbour mind-altering phenylpropanoids like myristicin, elemicin, safrole, tryptamine derivatives such as N,N-dimethyltryp...
Psilocybin as a lead candidate molecule in preclinical therapeutic studies of psychiatric disorders: A systematic review
Journal of Neurochemistry – November 29, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows significant promise for treating neuropsychiatric conditions, particularly depression. A review of 36 preclinical studies reveals how this alkaloid, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, may exert its therapeutic effects. This pharmacology research in neuroscience and psychology explores psilocybin's mechanisms, offering insights for future medicine and psychiatry. The findings from these psychedelics and drug studies highlight psilocybin's potential to alter behavior at a cellular level, providing a robust context for developing new treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin is the main psychoactive compound found in hallucinogenic/magic mushrooms and can bind to both serotonergic and tropomyosin rec...
Cultivation, chemistry, and genome of Psilocybe zapotecorum
OpenAlex – November 02, 2023
Summary
*Psilocybe zapotecorum*, a mushroom with historical indigenous use, contains a potent psilocybin concentration of 17.9 mg/g, ranging from 10.6-25.7 mg/g across seven samples. Its full genome, revealing the psilocybin gene cluster, offers new biological insights. Combining Fungal Biology and Applications with Chemical synthesis and alkaloids, the work profiles its complex tryptamine chemistry, including psilocin and baeocystin. A total tryptamine concentration reached 22.5 mg/g. These findings advance Psychedelics and Drug Studies by illuminating the diversity of naturally occurring psilocybin sources.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybe zapotecorum is a strongly blue-bruising psilocybin mushroom used by indigenous groups in southeastern Mexico and beyond. While t...
Psilocybin does not induce the vulnerability marker HSP70 in neurons susceptible to Olney’s lesions
European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience – November 07, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, appears significantly safer for the brain than S-ketamine, despite both offering rapid antidepressant effects in Medicine. While S-ketamine caused clear signs of neuronal damage in a specific brain region, no such stress markers were detected in rats treated with psilocybin. This Neuroscience insight, vital for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests psilocybin's chemical properties present less of a vulnerability to brain health. Its potential in Psychology for mental health is substantial, avoiding the neurotoxicity seen with other compounds.
Abstract
Abstract S-ketamine, a N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist, and psilocybin, a 5-hydroxy-tryptamine (serotonin) 2A receptor (5-HT 2A R)...
The Tolerability and Safety of Psilocybin in Psychiatric and Substance-Dependence Conditions: A Systematic Review
Annals of Pharmacotherapy – October 30, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a unique hallucinogen, demonstrated remarkable tolerability with no reported cases of psychosis or Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder in 16 clinical trials. This systematic review, synthesizing diverse academic research themes, confirms its potential as Medicine in Psychiatry and Substance use. Adverse effects were largely transient; only 3 participants needed benzodiazepines for anxiety, and one received blood pressure medication. This promising safety profile, stemming from studies involving psilocybin's chemical synthesis and alkaloids, underscores its role in Psychedelics and Drug Studies for various conditions.
Abstract
Objective: The objective of this systematic review is to determine the tolerability and safety of psilocybin in a variety of psychiatric and substa...
Assessing potential of psilocybin for depressive disorders
Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs – October 03, 2023
Summary
For those battling severe depression, especially when other treatments fail, psilocybin treatment shows distinct promise. This hallucinogen, a key focus in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, appears most suitable for patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). While Psychiatry and Medicine explore its therapeutic potential, particularly regarding its psychological effects, understanding the full scope of risks remains crucial. The current evidence suggests a targeted application, prioritizing individuals for whom existing care has proven insufficient.
Abstract
There is still much unknown regarding the risks of psilocybin treatment. When weighing the known risks and benefits of psilocybin treatment against...
Effects of psilocybin, the 5-HT2A receptor agonist TCB-2, and the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist M100907 on visual attention in male mice in the continuous performance test.
Psychopharmacology – October 19, 2023
Summary
Serotonin-targeting compounds like psilocybin show promise in treating mental health, but their effects on attention remain unclear. Research with mice revealed that psilocybin and related compounds (TCB-2 and M100907) affected visual attention tasks, though mainly at doses that also reduced movement. The findings suggest these effects stem from broader behavioral changes rather than direct impact on attention processes.
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression are characterized in part by attention deficits. Attention is modulated by the serotonin (5-HT) neuro...
Tryptamines and Mental Health: Activating the 5-HT Receptor for Therapeutic Potential
ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters – September 15, 2023
Summary
Breakthroughs in Medicine reveal tryptamines, a class of alkaloids, are revolutionizing mental health treatments. Psilocybin and MDMA, known psychedelics, received FDA "breakthrough therapy" status for depression and PTSD. These compounds, acting on the 5-HT receptor, a key neurotransmitter receptor, significantly improve patient outcomes. Ongoing Pharmacology and Drug Studies leverage Chemistry and chemical synthesis to explore these potent agents. Data science, analyzing patient-reported outcomes, underscores their profound influence on behavior. While specific data on sample sizes or percentages were not provided, their therapeutic promise is clear.
Abstract
Tryptamines, a class of 3-aminoethyl-indoles that activate the serotonin receptor, show potential for novel mental health treatments. The FDA has g...
Structural analysis of an lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) analogue N-methyl-N-isopropyllysergamide (MiPLA): Insights from Rotamers in NMR spectra.
Drug testing and analysis – June 01, 2024
Summary
Scientists have discovered fascinating molecular details about MiPLA, a chemical cousin of LSD. Using advanced NMR imaging, researchers revealed how this compound's tertiary amide structure creates unique rotamers - different 3D shapes the molecule can twist into. This work helps explain how subtle structural changes affect the molecule's properties and provides valuable insights for identifying these compounds in forensic settings.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a hallucinogenic compound that binds to and activates the serotonin 2A receptor and is classified as a controll...
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Potential use of psilocybin drugs in the treatment of depression
Expert Opinion on Emerging Drugs – October 02, 2023
Summary
A potent Hallucinogen, Psilocybin, is showing early promise as a groundbreaking medicine for major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression. Initial clinical trials, part of emerging Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggest rapid symptom relief. However, this unique alkaloid, often produced via chemical synthesis, requires extensive randomized controlled trials in large Phase III studies. Such rigorous evaluation is vital to confirm its safety and efficacy, paving the way for its acceptance within psychiatry as a transformative treatment for depression.
Abstract
Clinical phase I-II trials published to date reported promising results for psilocybin in the treatment of patients with major depressive disorder ...
Ayahuasca, Personality and Acute Psychological Effects in Neo-Shamanic and Religious Settings in Uruguay.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca ceremonies in Uruguay reveal fascinating differences between religious and neo-shamanic settings. Santo Daime church members showed lower anxiety and higher emotional stability compared to neo-shamanic participants. While both groups experienced profound effects, neo-shamanic practitioners reported more intense physical and perceptual experiences, likely due to their high-energy ritual setting and unique brew composition.
Abstract
This study is an interdisciplinary research into Uruguayan ayahuasca users belonging to one neo-shamanic and one Santo Daime group. The study invol...