5439 results for "Psychedelics"
Synthetic Strategies toward Lysergic Acid Diethylamide: Ergoline Synthesis via α-Arylation, Borrowing Hydrogen Alkylation, and C-H Insertion.
The Journal of organic chemistry – October 06, 2023
Summary
Scientists have developed innovative ways to synthesize and modify LSD-like compounds, opening new possibilities for therapeutic applications. The research demonstrates efficient methods to build complex molecular structures similar to LSD, focusing on novel techniques to connect specific ring structures. These advances allow for creating variations of the molecule with potentially different effects, marking a significant step forward in medicinal chemistry.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), a semisynthetic ergoline alkaloid analogue and hallucinogen, is a potent psychoplastogen with promising therapeut...
Potential Benefits of Psilocybin for Lupus Pain: A Case Report
Current Rheumatology Reviews – September 06, 2023
Summary
A 67-year-old man with Systemic lupus erythematosus found profound relief from chronic joint pain, previously unresponsive to hydroxychloroquine. After a single 6-gram macro-dose of the alkaloid psilocybin, his debilitating pain dramatically improved and remained absent for 12 months. This remarkable analgesic effect, explored in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests psilocybin's neuroplastic potential to disrupt neuropathic pain pathways. This finding, from Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, offers a compelling avenue for Medicine in treating severe chronic pain, potentially even for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia.
Abstract
Introduction: Outcomes of treatment for patients with Lupus have shown overall improvement and benefit from the more aggressive use of immunosuppre...
Single-Dose Psilocybin Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder
JAMA – August 31, 2023
Summary
A single 25-mg dose of synthetic psilocybin dramatically reduced symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) in a study of 104 adults. Administered with psychological support, this psychedelic medicine led to a 12.3-point greater reduction on a key depression rating scale compared to placebo by day 43. While no serious adverse effects occurred, psilocybin treatment showed a higher rate of overall adverse events. This promising antidepressant, acting through neurotransmitter receptor influence, offers new hope in psychiatry for individuals without bipolar disorder or active suicidal ideation, significantly improving functional disability.
Abstract
Importance Psilocybin shows promise as a treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD). Objective To evaluate the magnitude, timing, and durability...
Psilocybin history, action and reaction: A narrative clinical review
Journal of Psychopharmacology – August 31, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, holds modest promise in psychiatry for treating anxiety and depression, with early data also suggesting benefits for alcohol use disorders. While supervised psilocybin therapy in medicine typically yields mild, transient adverse effects, and severe events are uncommon, one recent clinical trial observed increased suicidal ideation. This critical finding from psychedelics and drug studies highlights complex psychological considerations for this compound, derived from natural alkaloids, as it moves towards broader therapeutic application.
Abstract
Hallucinogenic mushrooms have been used in religious and cultural ceremonies for centuries. Of late, psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in hallu...
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Serotonin Receptor and Transient Receptor Potential Channel Ligands in Human Small Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Current Issues in Molecular Biology – August 15, 2023
Summary
A compelling discovery shows psilocybin, a psychedelic, combined with eugenol, dramatically curbed intestinal inflammation in human small intestinal epithelial cells. Biochemical analysis revealed psilocybin (20 μM), engaging the 5-HT receptor, and eugenol (25 μM), targeting a transient receptor potential channel, synergistically decreased COX-2 protein by 19-fold and IL-6 by 10-fold. This chemistry-driven insight, vital for drug studies and cell biology, highlights a non-cytotoxic strategy for inflammatory bowel diseases, advancing our understanding of serotonin's role in biology and endocrinology.
Abstract
Intestinal inflammation and dysbiosis can lead to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and systemic inflammation, affecting multiple organs. Developin...
A „Magic Mushroom“ Multi‐Product Sesquiterpene Synthase
ChemBioChem – August 24, 2023
Summary
Beyond their known psychotropic tryptamines, "magic mushrooms" produce diverse natural products. A single sesquiterpene synthase enzyme, CubA, from *Psilocybe cubensis* was characterized. Its biochemistry was explored by expressing it in *Escherichia coli*. This terpenoid-producing enzyme synthesizes compounds like cubebol, β-copaene, and δ-cadinene, also found in the mushroom. This work, relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, reveals the broader metabolic biology and plant biochemistry of *Psilocybe* species. It advances our understanding of natural product biosynthesis and chemistry, including potential roles for these compounds beyond alkaloids, impacting chemical synthesis.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybe “magic mushrooms” are chemically well understood for their psychotropic tryptamines. However, the diversity of their other speci...
Characterization of the lysergic acid diethylamide analog, 1-(thiophene-2-carbonyl)-N,N-diethyllysergamide (1T-LSD) from a blotter product.
Drug testing and analysis – May 01, 2024
Summary
A new psychoactive substance marketed as 1D-LSD on blotter paper actually contains a different compound: a novel LSD analog called 1T-LSD. Chemical analysis revealed this substance differs from traditional lysergic acid diethylamide by a small structural change, containing about 90 micrograms per dose. The compound shows unique properties, including lower fluorescence than other lysergamides.
Abstract
Recently, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) analogs have appeared worldwide as designer drugs. In this study, we identified a distributed LSD analog...
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) for the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders: Preclinical and Clinical Evidence.
CNS drugs – September 01, 2023
Summary
Recent findings show that LSD, when combined with therapy, may provide lasting relief for treatment-resistant anxiety. Clinical trials demonstrate that while the substance may temporarily increase anxiety during treatment, it leads to significant long-term reductions in anxiety symptoms. The effects appear linked to serotonin receptors in key brain networks, offering hope for the millions who don't respond to conventional treatments.
Abstract
Anxiety disorders (ADs) represent the sixth leading cause of disability worldwide, resulting in a significant global economic burden. Over 50% of i...
Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and urinary recovery of oral lysergic acid diethylamide administration in healthy participants.
British journal of clinical pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
LSD's effects peak within 2 hours of ingestion, with higher doses leading to more intense and longer-lasting experiences. New research reveals how the body processes and eliminates this compound, tracking its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in 28 healthy volunteers. At doses of 85 and 170 micrograms, only 1% was eliminated unchanged in urine, while 16% converted to metabolites, showing efficient processing by the body.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is currently investigated for several neurological and psychiatric illnesses. Various studies have investigated th...
A Proposal to Study the Safety and Efficacy of Psilocybe cubensis in Preclinical and Clinical Studies as a Therapeutic Alternative for Major Depressive Disorder
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – August 18, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a natural alkaloid, offers breakthrough potential for major depressive disorder, contrasting with current antidepressants' modest effects. A comprehensive project in Medicine and Psychiatry will conduct preclinical research, assessing toxicity and characterizing *Psilocybe cubensis* via chemical synthesis and alkaloid analysis. Subsequent clinical trials in Pharmacology will evaluate safety in healthy adults, then efficacy in patients with major depressive disorder, comparing two single doses (with assisted psychotherapy, reflecting Psychology) against traditional care. This advances Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
The pharmacological treatment of depression consists of taking antidepressant drugs for prolonged periods; its modest therapeutic effect can often ...
Developing a Direct Observation Measure of Therapeutic Connection in Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy: A Feasibility Study
Journal of Palliative Medicine – August 17, 2023
Summary
Directly observing therapeutic human connection during psilocybin sessions is highly feasible. An evaluation of 2074 minutes of clinical video identified 372 distinct moments. Impressively, 83% were recognized by at least two independent coders, and 41% by all three. Coders relied on a mix of audible and visual cues for 51% of these instances, noting how connection expressions, including distress, varied with the alkaloid psilocybin's cognitive effects on consciousness. This work in psychology and medicine advances understanding of psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Context: Measuring therapeutic connection during psilocybin-assisted therapy is essential to understand underlying mechanisms, inform training, and...
Psilocybin‐assisted psychotherapy for treatment‐resistant depression: Which psychotherapy?
International Journal of Mental Health Nursing – August 17, 2023
Summary
For individuals with treatment-resistant depression, the hallucinogen psilocybin shows promise. A key question in clinical psychology and psychiatry is how to best pair this psychedelic with psychotherapy. Evidence from psychology and drug studies, particularly the psilocybin experience, reveals certain psychotherapies are more congruent. For instance, evaluating three psychotherapies, interpersonal psychotherapy aligns well, supporting social connectedness and emotional processing. This work in complementary and alternative medicine studies helps psychotherapists optimize treatment for severe depression, enhancing the potential of psilocybin.
Abstract
Abstract This perspective paper explores the choice of psychotherapy for psilocybin‐assisted psychotherapy for treatment‐resistant depression. Ther...
Substance use, harm reduction attitudes and behaviors among attendees of nature rave parties in Israel.
Harm reduction journal – August 09, 2023
Summary
Israeli nature rave parties reveal a fascinating intersection of music culture and public health. At these outdoor celebrations, attendees show strong support for harm reduction strategies while using various substances. A survey of 1,200+ partygoers found cannabis as the most common substance (62%), followed by psychedelics. While participants supported safety measures like drug testing, turning attitudes into actions proved challenging. The findings highlight opportunities to enhance safety at these events.
Abstract
Few studies have analyzed harm reduction behaviors and attitudes among rave party attendees. Since the late 1980s, there has been a large Israeli r...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of human studies
European Neuropsychopharmacology – August 07, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin shows significant antidepressant potential in psychiatry. A meta-analysis of seven double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trials, encompassing 489 participants, pinpointed effective dosages. For primary depression, 24.68 mg/70 kg was 95% effective, while secondary depression required 8.92 mg/70 kg. Overall, 36.08 mg/70 kg was 95% effective. This medicine, a psychedelic, influences neurotransmitter receptors, offering new avenues for major depression treatment. Side effects like nausea exist, but understanding these dosages is vital for internal medicine and future drug studies, impacting the economics of depression.
Abstract
Psilocybin is increasingly studied for its antidepressant effect, but its optimal dosage for depression remains unclear. We conducted a systematic ...
Prevalence of psilocybin use in vaping and associated factors: a study among amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) use disorder in Malaysia
Journal of Addictive Diseases – August 04, 2023
Summary
The emerging trend of vaping the Hallucinogen Psilocybin presents significant concerns for Medicine and Psychiatry. Its growing use, particularly among individuals consuming Amphetamine-Type Stimulants and across broader Demography, highlights a critical gap in understanding. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis reveal this rise. Unlike some insights from Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, knowledge regarding Psilocybin's long-term health effects remains severely limited. Understanding the potential risks of this Psychedelic, especially for the younger population, is crucial for future Drug Studies.
Abstract
Psilocybin in vaping is growing among ATS users and across all populations. Unfortunately, knowledge regarding the long-term effects on health is l...
Assessing the risk of symptom worsening in psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression: A systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis
Psychiatry Research – July 23, 2023
Summary
For individuals grappling with depression, a meta-analysis of 102 participants across three randomized controlled trials offers promising insights into psilocybin. Only about 10% experienced symptom worsening with this alkaloid, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, a rate mirroring the antidepressant escitalopram. This contrasts sharply with 63.6% in waitlist groups. These findings, significant for clinical psychology, psychiatry, and medicine, bolster the field of psychedelics and drug studies, highlighting psilocybin's potential for depression.
Abstract
We conducted a meta-analysis using individual participant data from three, two-dose psilocybin trials for depression (N = 102) with the aim of asse...
Reconnecting through dissociation: a 5-month follow-up case study on ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for anorexia nervosa.
Journal of eating disorders – June 10, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking treatment combining ketamine with psychotherapy showed remarkable success in treating severe anorexia nervosa. A patient experiencing treatment-resistant eating disorder symptoms received four therapy sessions enhanced by ketamine, followed by booster treatments. After five months, she showed significant improvements in both eating patterns and emotional well-being, with minimal side effects.
Abstract
Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, has demonstrated rapid antidepressant effects at sub-anesthetic doses, making it a promising...
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for AUD: Bayesian analysis of WHO drinking risk level and exploratory analysis of drinking behavior and psychosocial functioning at 3 months follow-up.
Alcohol and alcoholism (Oxford, Oxfordshire) – May 14, 2025
Summary
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy shows promise in treating alcohol use disorder, with participants experiencing significant reductions in alcohol craving and improved well-being. The treatment combined traditional psychotherapy with two MDMA sessions, leading to better sleep quality and enhanced psychosocial functioning. After 3 months, most participants showed reduced drinking risk levels.
Abstract
Safety and tolerability data from the first open-label feasibility study of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy for alc...
Self-compassion mediates treatment effects in MDMA-assisted therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder.
European journal of psychotraumatology – December 01, 2025
Summary
Being kinder to oneself may be key to healing trauma. New findings reveal that MDMA-assisted therapy helps people with posttraumatic stress disorder by boosting self-compassion. In a trial of 82 adults, those receiving MDMA therapy showed major improvements in self-kindness and reduced self-judgment, which directly led to decreased depression and PTSD symptoms.
Abstract
Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe condition often complicated by co-occurring disorders, such as major depression, alcoh...
Identification of 1-(thiophene-2-carbonyl)-LSD from blotter paper falsely labeled "1D-LSD".
Forensic toxicology – January 01, 2024
Summary
A new variant of LSD found on seized blotter paper reveals the evolving world of synthetic drugs. Using high-resolution mass spectrometry, researchers discovered that paper labeled "1D-LSD" actually contained a different lysergamide: 1-(thiophene-2-carbonyl)-LSD. This marks the first confirmation of this new psychoactive substance's structure, highlighting how drug markets often misrepresent their products.
Abstract
Since the mid-2010s, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) analogs made for substance abuse have periodically emerged. In this case, three pieces of blo...
Psilocybin’s Potential Mechanisms in the Treatment of Depression: A Systematic Review
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – June 29, 2023
Summary
The psychedelic psilocybin, a hallucinogen, offers antidepressant promise in psychiatry. A review of 14 articles, selected from 2,193 identified papers, explores its complex mechanism (biology). Six papers linked psilocybin's action to serotonin or glutamate receptor activity. Three found increased synaptogenesis, while five noted altered functional connectivity in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. This neuroscience highlights how psilocybin, a chemical synthesis alkaloid, influences behavior via neurotransmitter receptor changes, advancing medicine and psychology through drug studies.
Abstract
Evidence suggests that psilocybin has therapeutic benefit for treating depression. However, there is little consensus regarding the mechanism by wh...
Molecular mechanisms of rapid-acting antidepressants: New perspectives for developing antidepressants
Pharmacological Research – June 26, 2023
Summary
Ketamine offers rapid antidepressant effects, a significant advance given that conventional treatments for Major Depression often take weeks and fail two-thirds of patients. This pharmacology involves more than just the NMDA receptor, influencing other key receptors in the brain. Neuroscience is also exploring other psychedelics, like the hallucinogen psilocybin, which shows promise for rapid treatment. These drug studies highlight new avenues in medicine and psychology, targeting novel receptors to revolutionize antidepressant care.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a chronic relapsing psychiatric disorder. Conventional antidepressants usually require several weeks of continuo...
Interactive Effects of Ayahuasca and Cannabidiol in Social Cognition in Healthy Volunteers: A Pilot, Proof-of-Concept, Feasibility, Randomized-Controlled Trial.
Journal of clinical psychopharmacology
Summary
Combining ancient plant medicine with modern cannabinoids, researchers explored how CBD might influence ayahuasca's effects on emotional recognition and empathy. Healthy volunteers received either CBD or placebo before taking ayahuasca. Both groups showed faster emotional recognition and reduced anxiety, with no significant differences between them. The combination proved safe, with only mild side effects like nausea.
Abstract
Serotonergic hallucinogens and cannabinoids may alter the recognition of emotions in facial expressions (REFE). Cannabidiol (CBD) attenuates the ps...
Microbiome–Gut–Brain Axis Modulation: New Approaches in Treatment of Neuropsychological and Gastrointestinal Functional Disorders
ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters – May 11, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) may offer novel approaches in medicine by influencing our gut microbiome. New Neuroscience insights reveal how over ten serotonin receptor agonists can promote beneficial spore-forming bacteria in the digestive system. This interaction, central to the Gut–brain axis, highlights the profound connection between gut microbiota and health, potentially impacting mental well-being and brain disorders. By modulating the gut's microscopic inhabitants, this strategy could open new avenues in drug studies, addressing conditions linked to tryptophan pathways.
Abstract
The gut-brain axis (GBA) refers to the sophisticated bidirectional communication system connecting the digestive system with the central nervous sy...
HOPE: A Pilot Study of Psilocybin Enhanced Group Psychotherapy in Patients With Cancer.
Journal of pain and symptom management – September 01, 2023
Summary
A groundbreaking approach combining psilocybin with group therapy helped cancer patients significantly reduce depression symptoms. Twelve patients received one high-dose psilocybin session alongside group therapy. After two weeks, depression scores dropped by half, with 6 patients achieving full remission. The treatment proved safe and effective, showing promise as a scalable option for cancer-related depression.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy shows promise in treating depression and existential distress in people with serious medical illness. However, it...
Attenuation of psilocybin mushroom effects during and after SSRI/SNRI antidepressant use
Journal of Psychopharmacology – June 08, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin's effects are significantly diminished by certain antidepressants, a critical finding for psychiatry, psychology, and internal medicine. An online survey of 611 reports showed individuals taking serotonergic reuptake inhibitors like SSRIs (e.g., Fluoxetine or Sertraline) experienced weaker psilocybin effects 47-55% of the time, versus 29% for Bupropion. Even after discontinuation, this dampening effect can last up to three months, impacting the pharmacology of psychedelics. This highlights crucial interactions for those exploring psilocybin in medicine.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin is being studied for depression, but little is known about how it interacts with common antidepressants. Limited data sugges...
Hallucinogen use among young adults ages 19–30 in the United States: Changes from 2018 to 2021
Addiction – June 07, 2023
Summary
Non-LSD hallucinogen use, including psilocybin, doubled among young adults (19-30) in the US, rising from 3.4% in 2018 to 6.6% in 2021. This longitudinal cohort study of 11,304 individuals found Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) use remained stable. An odds ratio of 1.86 (95% confidence interval 1.52–2.26) revealed males had higher odds of non-LSD hallucinogen use. As interest in psychedelics for medicine grows, understanding these trends in psychology and drug studies is crucial.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Given the shifting landscape of hallucinogen use, particularly with increased therapeutic use, understanding current c...
Personality change in a trial of psilocybin therapy v. escitalopram treatment for depression.
Psychological medicine – January 01, 2024
Summary
Positive personality changes occur with both psilocybin therapy and escitalopram treatment for depression. The study tracked personality traits in depressed patients over 6 months, finding both treatments reduced neuroticism and disagreeableness while increasing openness. Psilocybin uniquely boosted absorption and conscientiousness. Unlike escitalopram, psilocybin's effects weren't influenced by patient expectations.
Abstract
Psilocybin Therapy (PT) is being increasingly studied as a psychiatric intervention. Personality relates to mental health and can be used to probe ...
Letter to the editor on "Increased low-frequency brain responses to music after psilocybin therapy for depression".
Journal of affective disorders – October 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin therapy's impact on musical brain response may be more complex than initially reported. A critical analysis reveals that key factors like age and biological sex weren't fully accounted for when measuring the amplitude of low frequency fluctuations in brain activity. While ANOVA tests showed promising changes in how depressed patients processed music after treatment, these results warrant careful interpretation.
Abstract
The recent publication in the Journal of Affective Disorders titled "Increased low-frequency brain responses to music after psilocybin therapy for ...
Empirically validated theoretical analysis of visual-spatial perception under change of nervous system arousal
Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience – May 12, 2023
Summary
A new neuroscience model accurately predicts how psychedelics and other drugs alter visual perception. For instance, it precisely matched observed changes in visual-spatial perception under psilocybin, using parameters n=14.8 and k=1.39. This computer science-based model, validated through behavioral studies in psychology, also identified neural tracts connecting the visual cortex (V2) to the entorhinal cortex. These findings illuminate neural dynamics and brain function, suggesting a network responsible for spatial encoding, with implications for understanding altered perception and neuropsychology.
Abstract
Introduction Visual-spatial perception is a process for extracting the spatial relationship between objects in the environment. The changes in visu...
Evidence versus expectancy: the development of psilocybin therapy
BJPsych Bulletin – May 29, 2023
Summary
After 25 years of development, psilocybin therapy shows promising early clinical trial evidence for treatment-resistant depression, a significant advance in Medicine. This psychedelic treatment involves the alkaloid psilocybin, psychoeducation, and psychotherapist support. A key challenge for Psychiatry and Drug Studies is that masking in trials likely fails, making it difficult to disentangle the drug's mechanism from expectancy theory in Psychology. Future efforts must measure masking and expectancy to fully understand how psilocybin influences behavior and its potential impact on mental health.
Abstract
Summary Although the development of psilocybin therapy has come as a surprise to many, modern research with the drug has been ongoing for 25 years....
Phenomenology and therapeutic potential of patient experiences during oral esketamine treatment for treatment-resistant depression: an interpretative phenomenological study.
Psychopharmacology – July 01, 2023
Summary
Patients receiving oral esketamine for severe depression report profound experiences of detachment and mystical encounters, offering new hope for those who haven't responded to conventional treatments. Through in-depth interviews with 17 patients, researchers found that while the medication produced varying effects, many experienced increased openness and spiritual connections, alongside temporary relief from negative thought patterns. Despite some challenging moments during treatment, patients reported meaningful shifts in perspective and emotional breakthroughs.
Abstract
Ketamine and its enantiomers are widely researched and increasingly used to treat mental disorders, especially treatment-resistant depression. The ...
Psychoactive plant derivatives (ayahuasca, ibogaine, kratom) and their application in opioid withdrawal and use disorder - a narrative review.
Journal of addictive diseases – January 01, 2024
Summary
Natural plant-based compounds show promise in addressing the opioid crisis. Ayahuasca, ibogaine, and kratom have emerged as potential alternatives for managing opioid withdrawal and addiction. These substances work through multiple pathways, combining unique chemical effects with traditional ceremonial practices to help reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms. While ayahuasca and ibogaine often require supervised settings, kratom has gained popularity as a more accessible option for opioid use disorder.
Abstract
The opioid epidemic and limited access to treatment for opioid withdrawal (OW) and opioid use disorder (OUD) has led individuals to seek alternativ...
Safety, tolerability, and clinical and neural effects of single-dose psilocybin in obsessive–compulsive disorder: protocol for a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, non-crossover trial
Frontiers in Psychiatry – April 25, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin shows promise for severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). A randomized controlled trial is investigating this hallucinogen's potential, enrolling 30 adults with Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders unresponsive to standard medicine. Participants receive a single psilocybin dosing (0.25 mg/kg) or placebo in a non-crossover design. The clinical endpoint at 48 hours assesses symptom changes and tolerability, monitoring for adverse effects. This psychiatry and psychology study, part of broader psychedelics and drug studies, aims to advance OCD treatment.
Abstract
Background Psilocybin may help treat obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). To date, only one open-label study of psilocybin for OCD exists, necessit...
Study protocol of an open-label proof-of-concept trial examining the safety and clinical efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy for veterans with PTSD
BMJ Open – May 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapy shows significant promise for severe PTSD, especially in US Military Veterans. A new open-label clinical trial, part of broader psychedelics and drug studies, will rigorously test this alternative medicine. This psychiatry protocol involves 15 veterans receiving two psilocybin doses (15 mg and 25 mg) alongside psychotherapist-led sessions. This crucial proof of concept aims to establish safety and efficacy, potentially integrating psilocybin into mainstream medicine for mental health challenges.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin-assisted therapy has shown significant promise in treating the cluster of mood and anxiety symptoms that comprise post-trau...
A critical evaluation of QIDS-SR-16 using data from a trial of psilocybin therapy versus escitalopram treatment for depression
Journal of Psychopharmacology – April 25, 2023
Summary
A re-analysis of a clinical trial suggests psilocybin therapy outperforms escitalopram for major depression. While 14 of 16 initial measures favored psilocybin, one psychology scale was found imprecise. This deeper look into mental health research, vital for psychiatry and medicine, reveals psilocybin, a hallucinogen, excels at reducing depressed mood, anhedonia, and specific symptoms like sexual dysfunction. Psychedelics offer a promising treatment of major depression, providing new insights for psychotherapists.
Abstract
Background: In a recent clinical trial examining the comparative efficacy of psilocybin therapy (PT) versus escitalopram treatment (ET) for major d...
Psilocybin facilitates fear extinction in mice by promoting hippocampal neuroplasticity.
Chinese medical journal – December 20, 2023
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin helped mice overcome fear responses by promoting brain adaptability. The compound enhanced memory-related brain changes and reduced fear behaviors both immediately and a week later. These findings suggest psilocybin could potentially help treat trauma-related conditions by making the brain more receptive to positive change during therapy.
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression are highly comorbid. Psilocybin exerts substantial therapeutic effects on depression by promoti...
Exploring psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy in the treatment of methamphetamine use disorder
Frontiers in Psychiatry – March 14, 2023
Summary
Current psychological interventions for methamphetamine use disorder yield modest success, leaving a critical gap in Psychiatry and Medicine. Yet, the potent hallucinogen psilocybin, an alkaloid with known Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, presents a promising avenue. While no Clinical psychology studies exist for this specific application, Psychedelics and Drug Studies are investigating psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy. This innovative psychological intervention, combining a psychotherapist with psilocybin (a compound from chemical synthesis), offers new hope in Psychology to revolutionize treatment where current medicine falls short.
Abstract
Methamphetamine use disorder is a chronic relapsing condition associated with substantial mental, physical, and social harms and increasing rates o...
The Effect of Combined Treatment of Psilocybin and Eugenol on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Brain Inflammation in Mice
Molecules – March 14, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a key compound in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, powerfully combats brain inflammation, revealing new avenues in Medicine. Pharmacology reveals that after Lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation via intraperitoneal injection in C57BL/6J mice, psilocybin alone or combined with eugenol, a natural anti-inflammatory, effectively reduced inflammatory markers. A 1:50 psilocybin-eugenol ratio proved most effective, dramatically decreasing cytokines like Tumor necrosis factor alpha and IL-6. Western blot confirmed reductions. This chemistry suggests novel treatments for Tryptophan and brain disorders linked to Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration Mechanisms.
Abstract
Inflammation is an organism’s biological defense mechanism. Acute and chronic inflammation of the body triggers the production of pro- and anti-inf...
Adverse effects of ayahuasca: Results from the Global Ayahuasca Survey.
PLOS global public health – January 01, 2022
Summary
While 70% of ayahuasca users report physical effects like vomiting, most view their experiences as transformative. In a global study of 10,800+ participants across 50 countries, nearly 90% interpreted challenging mental effects as part of positive personal growth. Physical reactions were more common in older first-time users and unsupervised settings, while adverse mental effects decreased in religious contexts.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a plant-based decoction native to Amazonia, where it has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Contemporary ritual use of aya...
Incilius alvarius Cell-Based Synthesis of 5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – March 01, 2023
Summary
Scientists have developed a groundbreaking way to produce 5-MeO-DMT, a compound with therapeutic promise, without harming the endangered Sonoran Desert toad. Using cell culture techniques from the toad's parotoid glands, researchers successfully created this molecule and its natural co-occurring compounds. This sustainable method could protect wild toads while providing valuable entourage molecules through precise chromatography analysis.
Abstract
There is growing interest in the therapeutic potential of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) for psychiatric disorders. Although 5-MeO-DM...
Psilocybin containing mushrooms: a rapidly developing biotechnology industry in the psychiatry, biomedical and nutraceutical fields.
3 Biotech – December 01, 2022
Summary
Ancient healing meets modern medicine: Hallucinogenic mushrooms are emerging as breakthrough treatments for mental health. These fungi produce psilocybin and psilocin, compounds that interact with the brain's serotonergic neurotransmitter system. As hallucinogenic medicine gains acceptance, biotechnology companies are developing standardized treatments that harness these natural compounds' therapeutic potential for depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Abstract
Humans have collected and used hallucinogenic mushrooms for ethnic medicinal, recreational, and religious purposes since before recorded history. C...
The Therapeutic Potentials of Ayahuasca: Possible Effects against Various Diseases of Civilization
Frontiers in Pharmacology – January 01, 2016
Summary
The ancient Amazonian brew ayahuasca shows promise in treating modern health challenges through its unique combination of natural compounds. Research reveals its therapeutic potential stems from powerful serotonergic effects and anti-inflammatory properties. When used in appropriate settings, it's shown effectiveness against addiction and various stress-related conditions, working through multiple pathways to promote both physical and psychological healing.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is an Amazonian psychoactive brew of two main components. Its active agents are β-carboline and tryptamine derivatives. As a sacrament, a...
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide and Psilocybin for the Management of Patients with Persistent Pain: a Potential Role?
Pain Management – May 01, 2018
Summary
Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) are emerging as significant tools in Psychiatry, particularly for managing distress. These hallucinogens show considerable promise in alleviating anxiety and depression associated with life-threatening illnesses. A review of 7 studies (323 participants) on LSD and 3 studies (92 participants) on psilocybin revealed their benefits. Administered professionally, these substances are generally safe. Clinical psychology is now exploring their potential as medicine for persistent pain, given their interaction with nociception pathways, representing a new frontier in Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Recently, there has been interest in lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin for depression, anxiety and fear of death in terminal illness....
Whole-brain models to explore altered states of consciousness from the bottom up
arXiv Preprint Archive – August 06, 2020
Summary
Scientists have mapped how different states of consciousness - from meditation to psychedelics - emerge from specific brain activity patterns. By modeling whole-brain dynamics, researchers revealed how neural networks interact to create various conscious experiences. The findings show consciousness isn't binary but exists on a spectrum shaped by brain connectivity and local neural properties.
Abstract
The scope of human consciousness includes states departing from what most of us experience as ordinary wakefulness. These altered states of conscio...
Investigating the Mechanisms of Hallucinogen-Induced Visions Using 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA): A Randomized Controlled Trial in Humans
PLoS ONE – December 02, 2010
Summary
A single dose of the classic hallucinogen psilocybin significantly reduced anxiety and depression in cancer patients. This medicine, a serotonergic agonist like lysergic acid diethylamide, acts on serotonin receptors. Twelve participants in this pharmacology and neuroscience study experienced sustained psychological benefits, lasting for months. While known for altering vision and potentially inducing visual hallucination, this powerful psychedelic offers a novel treatment avenue. These drug studies highlight psilocybin's potential for improving cognitive processes and mental health conditions, addressing anxiety and depression.
Abstract
Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00823407.
Ketamine as adjuvant treatment in eating disorders: an exploratory study of a case series and retrospective analysis.
Journal of eating disorders – March 17, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, traditionally used as an anesthetic, shows promising results in treating severe eating disorders. In a groundbreaking case series, eight women with anorexia nervosa received ketamine as an adjuvant treatment alongside standard care. The therapy helped reshape rigid food-related thoughts and improved body mass index, particularly after 4-5 sessions. Patients experienced reduced obsessive thinking and better self-image, suggesting ketamine's potential in treating challenging eating disorders.
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) significantly impair physical health and psychosocial functioning. Few effective therapeutic approaches exist for EDs, parti...
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Provides Lasting and Effective Results in the Treatment of Depression, Anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder at 3 and 6 Months: Findings from a Large Retrospective Effectiveness Study.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – June 01, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking research shows that combining ketamine with psychotherapy offers lasting relief for mental health conditions. This innovative treatment reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder in patients who hadn't responded to conventional treatments. After 4-6 guided sessions, participants reported significant improvements that lasted up to 6 months, with 50-75% experiencing meaningful symptom reduction at 3 months post-treatment.
Abstract
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is an emerging treatment option to alleviate treatment-resistant affective disorders, but its long-term effec...
Transdiagnostic use of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted therapy to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science – February 26, 2025
Summary
MDMA-assisted therapy shows promise in treating obsessive-compulsive disorders by enhancing traditional psychological treatments. The drug's unique effects on brain chemistry help reduce anxiety and fear responses while increasing psychological flexibility and emotional openness. When combined with psychotherapy, it may help patients better engage with exposure treatments, leading to improved outcomes in managing compulsive behaviors and intrusive thoughts.
Abstract
This article explores the potential of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted therapy to enhance exposure and response prevention in obs...
Repeated intermittent administration of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine mitigates demyelination in the brain from cuprizone-treated mice.
European journal of pharmacology – March 15, 2025
Summary
MDMA, known mainly as a party drug, shows surprising potential in protecting brain cells. Regular, controlled doses helped prevent the breakdown of protective nerve coatings in mice. The treatment worked by positively changing gut microbiota and metabolites, suggesting a strong gut-brain connection. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for conditions involving demyelination, where nerve cells lose their protective coating.
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), commonly known as a recreational drug, may also offer therapeutic benefits for mental health. Population-...