Research
Perceptions and attitudes towards psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy among health professionals, patients, and the public: A systematic review
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – February 05, 2024
Summary
Knowledge about psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is generally low across health professionals, patients, and the public. A systematic review of 29 studies, spanning psychology and medicine, explored these perceptions. Despite limited awareness, a mixed to positive belief in psychedelics' therapeutic potential exists. This comprehensive review, drawing from 17 health professionals, underscores the need for education to integrate these drug studies into public health. Databases like MEDLINE informed this work, highlighting concerns about implementation and legal status for psychotherapist-led treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Scientific interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics has been experiencing significant growth. Understandi...
A Systematic Review of Interventions for Demoralization in Patients with Chronic Diseases
International Journal of Behavioral Medicine – February 05, 2024
Summary
Demoralization profoundly impacts quality of life for patients with chronic diseases, a critical mental health concern in medicine. A systematic review of 14 studies, including 10 randomized controlled trials, examined psychological interventions. Meaning-centered therapy (6 studies) and dignity therapy (4 studies) demonstrated strong empirical support. Other interventions, like psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy, were also explored. These findings from the field of clinical psychology and psychiatry suggest promising avenues for psychotherapists to improve mental health outcomes, often identified through systematic searches of databases like MEDLINE.
Abstract
Abstract Background Demoralization, a significant mental health concern in patients with chronic diseases, can have a large impact on physical symp...
Modulation of long-term potentiation following microdoses of LSD captured by thalamo-cortical modelling in a randomised, controlled trial.
BMC neuroscience – February 05, 2024
Summary
Tiny doses of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) may subtly rewire brain connections, revealed through advanced brain imaging. This groundbreaking research tracked neuroplasticity changes in 80 healthy men using dynamic causal modelling, showing how microdoses affect neural pathways and long-term potentiation in visual processing areas, particularly in specific brain layers.
Abstract
Microdosing psychedelics is a phenomenon with claimed cognitive benefits that are relatively untested clinically. Pre-clinically, psychedelics have...
Psilocybin-enhanced fear extinction linked to bidirectional modulation of cortical ensembles
OpenAlex – February 04, 2024
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin dramatically boosts behavioral flexibility. Neuroscience reveals this psychedelic compound, an alkaloid with Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, acutely suppresses fear-active neurons while later recruiting extinction-active neurons. Over a five-day fear extinction assay, this modulation of neural ensembles in the retrosplenial cortex predicts improved fear memory resolution. This mechanism, crucial for Cognitive psychology and Psychology, offers new avenues for Psychedelics and Drug Studies addressing cognitive inflexibility.
Abstract
Abstract The serotonin 2 receptor (5HT2R) agonist psilocybin displays rapid and persistent therapeutic efficacy across neuropsychiatric disorders c...
Nursing in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy: new opportunities and future prospects
British Journal of Mental Health Nursing – February 02, 2024
Summary
The rise of psychedelic-assisted therapy is opening up new professional avenues for nurses. Drawing on expert insights, this exploration highlights the currently undefined but crucial role nurses can play. It reveals significant opportunities for professional development as these innovative treatments gain wider acceptance, emphasizing that nursing input will be essential for successful future integration.
Abstract
This article looks at the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and the nurse's role within that – something which is currently unex...
Mindfulness meditation styles differently modulate source-level MEG microstate dynamics and complexity
Frontiers in Neuroscience – February 02, 2024
Summary
Different meditation styles create unique patterns in our brain's electrical activity. Buddhist monks practicing mindfulness meditation showed distinct brain patterns during focused attention versus open monitoring techniques. Advanced brain imaging revealed that open monitoring meditation produced more complex and dynamic brain states, while focused meditation created more stable patterns. These findings help explain how different meditation approaches uniquely influence our mental states.
Abstract
BackgroundThe investigation of mindfulness meditation practice, classically divided into focused attention meditation (FAM), and open monitoring me...
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 ...
A Neuroanatomic and Pathophysiologic Framework for Novel Pharmacological Approaches to the Treatment of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
Drugs – February 01, 2024
Summary
Brain trauma from PTSD affects multiple neural pathways, making traditional antidepressants only partially effective. New research reveals promising alternative treatments targeting different brain mechanisms, from novel compounds like BNC-210 to psychedelic-assisted therapy. These approaches show potential in treating both the fear response and emotional processing aspects of PTSD, offering hope for more effective treatments beyond conventional SSRIs.
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating disorder inflicting high degrees of symptomatic and socioeconomic burdens. The development ...
Do the therapeutic effects of psilocybin involve actions in the gut?
Trends in pharmacological sciences – February 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin's therapeutic benefits may start in an unexpected place: your gut. New evidence suggests this psychedelic compound works along the gut-brain axis, activating serotonin receptors in both the digestive system and brain. Through the vagus nerve pathway, these actions may enhance neuroplasticity and improve mental health. The gut's high concentration of serotonin receptors could be key to understanding how psychedelics create positive changes.
Abstract
The psychedelic compound psilocybin has recently emerged as a therapeutic intervention for various mental health conditions. Psilocybin is a potent...
Exploring Esketamine's Therapeutic Outcomes as an FDA-Designated Breakthrough for Treatment-Resistant Depression and Major Depressive Disorder With Suicidal Intent: A Narrative Review.
Cureus – February 01, 2024
Summary
A groundbreaking depression treatment, esketamine nasal spray, shows remarkable success in helping patients who haven't responded to traditional SSRIs. FDA-approved studies reveal significant improvements in depression scores using the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale, with particular promise for suicide prevention. This NMDA receptor antagonist proves especially effective for treatment-resistant depression when combined with standard antidepressants.
Abstract
The expansive spectrum of major depressive disorder (MDD) continues to pose challenges for psychiatrists to treat effectively. Oral antidepressant ...
The impact of ketamine on outcomes in critically ill patients: a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Acute and critical care – February 01, 2024
Summary
In intensive care units, managing pain while preventing delirium remains a critical challenge. Ketamine, a versatile anesthetic, shows promise in critical care settings. Analysis of 12 clinical trials involving 805 critically ill patients revealed that ketamine performed similarly to traditional pain management medications for most outcomes. Notably, patients receiving ketamine experienced lower rates of delirium - a significant finding for intensive care unit practice. While equally effective for pain control, ketamine didn't increase hospital stays or mortality rates.
Abstract
This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effects of ketamine in critically ill intensive care unit (ICU) patients. We searched for randomized contro...
Preliminary evidence of psychological improvements and increased maternal-fetal attachment associated with a mindfulness sleep programme: secondary analysis of uncontrolled data in 11 pregnant women with insomnia disorder.
Journal of sleep research – February 01, 2024
Summary
Treating insomnia during pregnancy can significantly enhance maternal well-being beyond just improving sleep. In a trial involving 11 pregnant women with diagnosed insomnia, the 'Perinatal Understanding of Mindful Awareness for Sleep' (PUMAS) program led to impressive results: mindfulness scores increased by 181%, and maternal-fetal attachment improved by 73%. Participants also reported substantial reductions in anxiety (109%), repetitive thinking (126%), sleep-related impairment (153%), and daytime fatigue. These findings highlight the potential of mindfulness-based interventions to support expectant mothers holistically.
Abstract
Treating insomnia during pregnancy improves sleep and depressed mood. However, given well-established links between poor sleep and a broad spectrum...
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Exploring the Efficacy of Ketamine as an Anesthetic and Antidepressant in Postpartum Depression: A Case Study Analysis.
Cureus – February 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine, traditionally used in anesthesia, shows remarkable potential in preventing postpartum depression. In a groundbreaking case, a mother who received ketamine during two C-section deliveries experienced no depression symptoms, while her other two births without ketamine led to significant postnatal depression. This suggests ketamine could serve as both an anesthetic and protective agent for maternal mental health, offering a single-treatment approach that's more efficient than traditional anti-depressants.
Abstract
Postpartum depression is a common mental health disorder that affects women within six months after giving birth. It is characterized by sadness, a...
Unique Effects of (R)-Ketamine Compared to (S)-Ketamine on EEG Theta Power in Rats.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) – February 01, 2024
Summary
Brain waves reveal surprising differences between ketamine variants! While esketamine is known for its antidepressant effects, its mirror compound arketamine uniquely boosts theta rhythm brain activity linked to memory and cognition. In lab tests, rats given arketamine showed increased theta waves during both wakefulness and REM sleep, suggesting it may enhance neuroplasticity in unique ways compared to its better-known counterpart.
Abstract
Differences in the pharmacological effects of (S)-ketamine and (R)-ketamine are at the focus of research. Clinical data and our rat studies confirm...
Effectiveness of Ketamine for the Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Clinical neuropsychiatry – February 01, 2024
Summary
Recent findings show ketamine could offer new hope for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients. Analysis of 10 clinical trials revealed significant symptom improvements in participants receiving ketamine treatment, with benefits lasting up to 4 weeks. The drug proved particularly effective at reducing core PTSD symptoms when administered through controlled infusions, offering a promising alternative for those who haven't responded to conventional treatments.
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an enduring condition characterized by a chronic course and impairments across several areas. Despite its ...
Ketamine in Chronic Pain: A Review.
Cureus – February 01, 2024
Summary
A powerful anesthetic shows promise beyond the operating room: ketamine provides significant relief for those battling chronic pain conditions. This medication works by blocking specific brain receptors and boosting natural pain-fighting pathways. Patients with chronic postoperative pain, cancer pain, and non-oncological pain report meaningful improvements, with the added benefit of reduced opioid use and improved mood.
Abstract
Ketamine has been used in the treatment of several pain syndromes, particularly those with a relevant neuropathic component. Sub-anesthetic doses o...
Established sensitization of ethanol-induced locomotor activity is not reversed by psilocybin or the 5-HT2A receptor agonist TCB-2 in male DBA/2J mice.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – February 01, 2024
Summary
While psilocybin shows promise for treating alcohol disorders, new research reveals it doesn't reverse established behavioral patterns in mice repeatedly exposed to ethanol. Scientists tested whether psilocybin or TCB-2 could reduce heightened locomotor activity in mice sensitized to alcohol. Despite both compounds affecting movement independently, neither reversed the mice's learned response to ethanol.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs, which share in common 5-HT2A receptor agonist activity, have shown promise in treating alcohol-use disorders (AUDs). Repeated ex...
Comparison of Dexmedetomidine and Ketamine in Serratus Anterior Plane Block for Postoperative Pain Control in Thoracotomy Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Anesthesiology and pain medicine – February 01, 2024
Summary
Pain control breakthroughs: Adding ketamine to nerve blocks proves more effective than dexmedetomidine for managing post-thoracotomy pain. In this 74-patient trial, both medications helped reduce discomfort when added to standard nerve blocks, but ketamine showed superior pain control at key intervals. Patients receiving ketamine reported significantly lower pain scores, particularly in the first 24 hours after surgery.
Abstract
Postoperative pain control after thoracotomy is very important, and if not controlled, it can cause severe complications. This study aimed to compa...
The effect of casing and gypsum on the yield and psychoactive tryptamine content of Psilocybe cubensis (Earle) Singer.
Fungal biology – February 01, 2024
Summary
Growing magic mushrooms more effectively could be key to meeting rising medical demand. New research shows that adding a peat moss layer and gypsum supplement to P. cubensis cultivation dramatically improves yields. This method increased mushroom production fourfold while maintaining high levels of psilocybin and other psychedelic compounds, potentially benefiting both therapeutic applications and sustainable fungi cultivation.
Abstract
Psychedelic fungi have experienced a surge in interest in recent years. Most notably, the fungal secondary metabolite psilocybin has shown tremendo...
Psychedelics for alzheimer's disease-related dementia: Unveiling therapeutic possibilities and pathways
Ageing Research Reviews – February 01, 2024
Summary
A compelling finding in Neuroscience reveals psychedelics like Psilocybin, DMT, and LSD hold significant promise for treating Alzheimer's disease, a devastating form of dementia. These powerful chemical compounds, with a rich historical context, modulate neurotransmitter receptors to enhance neural plasticity and combat disease progression. This exciting development in Medicine and Psychology suggests that targeted drug studies could revolutionize care, offering a transformative approach for individuals facing this neurodegenerative disease.
Abstract
Psychedelics have traditionally been used for spiritual and recreational purposes, but recent developments in psychotherapy have highlighted their ...
Matrix Effects of Urine Marker Substances in LC-MS/MS Analysis of Drug of Abuse.
Therapeutic drug monitoring – February 01, 2024
Summary
Drug testing accuracy faces an unexpected challenge: common chemicals in urine can interfere with results. Scientists found that polyethylene glycol (PEG), used in urine marking systems, can mask drug detection signals. However, when PEG levels are kept low, testing remains reliable, with accuracy rates above 85% for most substances. This finding helps labs maintain trustworthy drug screening results.
Abstract
Analysis of drug abuse is frequently performed using high-performance liquid chromatography with an MS/MS detector and electrospray ionization. In ...
LSD use in the United States: Examining user demographics and their evolution from 2015–2019
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – February 01, 2024
Summary
Past-year LSD use in the U.S. surged by 47% from 2015 to 2019, rising from 0.59% to 0.87% of the population. This increase was notably observed among individuals aged 26-34 and married respondents. Key factors linked to LSD use included greater access, lower perceived risk, and socio-economic conditions like low income and fewer children at home. Interestingly, there was no proportional rise in LSD users among those with hallucinogen use disorder, suggesting a shift in societal attitudes rather than an escalation in public health concerns.
Abstract
Abstract Background Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) use has risen in the United States in recent years amid increased interest in therapeutic appl...
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, psychedelic methodologies, and the impregnable value of the subjective—a new and evolving approach
Frontiers in Psychiatry – February 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine, a legally prescribed medicine, offers profound potential in psychiatry. Its dissociative, psychedelic effects on consciousness, often mislabeled as side effects, are actually central to its therapeutic impact. When integrated by a psychotherapist, these experiences facilitate personal growth and healing, offering a powerful approach for brain disorders like Treatment of Major Depression. This positions ketamine, alongside emerging hallucinogens like psilocybin in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, as a new frontier in medicine and psychology, exploring novel brain mechanisms.
Abstract
Psychiatry is in a growth phase in which several psychedelic medicines have entered its arena with great promise. Of these, presently, ketamine is ...
An energizing microintervention: How mindfulness fosters subjective vitality through regulatory processes and flow experience at work.
Journal of occupational health psychology – February 01, 2024
Summary
Engaging in a brief morning meditation can significantly enhance well-being throughout the day. In a study involving 78 participants over 10 days, those who practiced mindfulness experienced improved self-regulation and flow at work, leading to greater subjective vitality at home in the evening. Specifically, the meditation positively influenced evening vitality indirectly through enhanced self-regulation and flow experiences. However, it did not affect vitality via self-control. This highlights how morning routines can effectively bridge well-being between work and home life.
Abstract
Can adopting one's morning routines influence employees' experiences throughout the day? To answer this focal question, we examine the daily effect...
Serotonergic Psychedelics: A Comparative Review of Efficacy, Safety, Pharmacokinetics, and Binding Profile
Biological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging – February 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin shows promise for depression, a compelling finding in the burgeoning field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies. This review explores hallucinogens like Lysergic acid diethylamide and Mescaline, examining their pharmacology, including pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. These compounds, often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, exert serotonergic effects through neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. While their potential in medicine and psychology is clear, evidence for most therapeutic uses remains scarce, with similar psychedelic effects observed across compounds.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds, including psilocybin, LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), DMT (N,N -dimethyltryptamine), and 5-MeO-DMT (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyl...
The impact of psychedelics on patients with alcohol use disorder: a systematic review with meta-analysis.
Current medical research and opinion – February 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic therapy shows remarkable promise in treating alcohol use disorder, with patients twice as likely to achieve sobriety or significantly reduce drinking when treated with LSD or similar compounds. This comprehensive meta-analysis examined decades of clinical trials, revealing that supervised psychedelic sessions effectively help people overcome alcohol dependency. While most studies focused on LSD, newer research with psilocybin also demonstrates encouraging results. The findings suggest these treatments could offer a powerful new tool for addressing alcohol use disorder, particularly when combined with traditional therapy approaches.
Abstract
Critique the available systematic review and de novo assessment of the role of psychedelics in the treatment of alcohol use disorder. A systematic ...
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...
Analytical and behavioral characterization of N-ethyl-N-isopropyllysergamide (EIPLA), an isomer of N6 -ethylnorlysergic acid N,N-diethylamide (ETH-LAD).
Drug testing and analysis – February 01, 2024
Summary
A newly studied psychedelic compound shows promising similarity to LSD, with about half its potency. Scientists analyzed EIPLA, one of many new psychoactive substances, finding it produces similar effects to classic psychedelics. Lab tests of blotters revealed precise doses, while animal studies confirmed the substance triggers characteristic behaviors associated with serotonergic compounds.
Abstract
Preclinical investigations have shown that N-ethyl-N-isopropyllysergamide (EIPLA) exhibits lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)-like properties, which ...
Magnesium-ibogaine therapy in veterans with traumatic brain injuries.
Nature medicine – February 01, 2024
Summary
Veterans with traumatic brain injuries saw significant improvements from a unique treatment combining a plant-derived compound with magnesium. This approach, tested in 30 male veterans, addressed functional impairments, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Positive changes in functioning, PTSD, depression, and anxiety were observed immediately and at one month, with no serious adverse events.
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of disability. Sequelae can include functional impairments and psychiatric syndromes such as post-t...
Mindful awareness and resilience skills for adolescents (MARS-A): a mixed-methods study of a mindfulness-based intervention for a heterogeneous adolescent clinical population.
International journal of adolescent medicine and health – February 01, 2024
Summary
Mindfulness-based intervention MARS-A significantly benefits adolescents facing chronic pain and mental health challenges. In a diverse group of 100 participants, those who completed MARS-A reported a 30% reduction in psychological distress and a 25% decrease in perceived stress. Additionally, 40% experienced improved coping with difficult emotions and sleep issues. Participants also noted enhanced well-being and positive affect, indicating that mindfulness can help manage the underlying suffering associated with various chronic illnesses. MARS-A demonstrates promising potential for supporting adolescent resilience.
Abstract
Mindful Awareness and Resilience Skills for Adolescents (MARS-A) is a mindfulness-based intervention adapted for the adolescent population. While p...
Effects of 7-minute practices of breathing and meditation on stress reduction.
PsyCh journal – February 01, 2024
Summary
A brief 7-minute practice of breathing or meditation significantly reduced perceived stress among undergraduates. In a study with 59 participants, both techniques led to improvements in emotional well-being, with 70% reporting increased serenity and a notable decrease in anxiety and fatigue. These low-dose interventions during micro-breaks effectively enhanced active emotions, demonstrating the power of short, mindful practices to alleviate stress and promote mental clarity. Integrating such techniques into daily routines could foster better emotional health.
Abstract
We compared the effects of 7-min practices of breathing and meditation on perceived stress reduction and related affective outcomes (active emotion...
Ensuring the affordable becomes accessible-lessons from ketamine, a new treatment for severe depression.
The Australian and New Zealand journal of psychiatry – February 01, 2024
Summary
Generic racemic ketamine, priced around $5 per dose, shows comparable antidepressant effects to the patented Spravato® at $600-$900 per dose. Despite its potential, generic ketamine's evaluation faced delays and lack of support, leaving it largely inaccessible in Australia even two years post-approval. With an annual investment request of AUD$100 million rejected twice, affordable treatment options remain elusive. Systemic reforms are necessary to facilitate access to low-cost treatments, especially as new psychedelic therapies emerge on the horizon.
Abstract
In this paper, the case study of ketamine as a new treatment for severe depression is used to outline the challenges of repurposing established med...
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...
[Narcotic Use under Probation and Parole Supervision - A longitudinal Study of Risk-group-specific Recidivism under Abstinence Conditions].
Gesundheitswesen (Bundesverband der Arzte des Offentlichen Gesundheitsdienstes (Germany)) – February 01, 2024
Summary
Drug testing over 14 years revealed surprising patterns among probationers and parolees: while only 2.7% tested positive for narcotics, women were more likely than men to use amphetamines. Cannabis (3.7%) and opiates (2.4%) were most common among 18-35 year olds. The study analyzed 13,500 tests from 380 people, offering valuable insights into substance use patterns during court-supervised release.
Abstract
The aim of this long-term study was to record substance-specific prevalences of illegal use of narcotics despite court-imposed abstinence requireme...
Methoxetamine and its metabolites: Postmortem determination in body fluids of human cadaver.
Journal of analytical toxicology – January 31, 2024
Summary
Methoxetamine (MXE), a ketamine analog, and its metabolites can persist and be detected in a human body even after two months of decomposition. This was demonstrated in a 42-year-old man whose body was discovered 60 days post-mortem. Toxicological analysis revealed MXE concentrations of 3.6 ng/mL in blood, 70.5 ng/mL in urine, and 18.0 ng/mL in gastric content. With no other drugs or poisons present, MXE was inferred to have contributed to death, despite relatively low blood levels. The findings highlight the compound's remarkable post-mortem detectability.
Abstract
We report the forensic case of a 42-year-old man, a known drug user, who died at home and whose body was only discovered 2 months later. Autopsy wa...
Making Sense of Psychedelics in the CNS
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – January 30, 2024
Summary
Modern science is unlocking the ancient power of psychedelic compounds, revealing their profound effects across four distinct biological levels—molecular to system-wide. Neuroscience and cognitive science leverage computational tools, cellular assays, and behavioral metrics, drawing insights from data science and the field of mathematics. Advanced biochemical analysis and sensing techniques illuminate how these alkaloids, from natural sources or chemical synthesis, influence psychology. This comprehensive perspective, informed by computer science and epistemology, is vital for ethically engineering treatments. Ongoing psychedelics and drug studies are rapidly expanding understanding as therapeutic access grows worldwide.
Abstract
Abstract For centuries, ancient lineages have consumed psychedelic compounds from natural sources. In the modern era, scientists have since harness...
Web-Based Mindfulness Meditation as an Adjunct to Internet-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Public Safety Personnel: Mixed Methods Feasibility Evaluation Study.
JMIR formative research – January 30, 2024
Summary
Mindfulness meditations can enhance internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) for public safety personnel (PSP), who often face mental health challenges. Among 40 PSP enrolled in the PSP Wellbeing Course, 27 (68%) engaged with mindfulness meditations, averaging 4.8 minutes weekly. Significant symptom improvements were observed: anxiety (67%), depression (65%), PTSD (62%), and anger (60%). While many found the meditations beneficial, they also reported difficulties, suggesting that better integration and support could enhance their effectiveness. Tailoring resources may lead to greater engagement and better outcomes.
Abstract
Public safety personnel (PSP) are individuals who work to ensure the safety and security of communities (eg, correctional workers, firefighters, pa...
Sublingual Ketamine for Depression and Anxiety: A Retrospective Study of Real-World Clinical Outcomes
medRxiv Preprint Server – January 30, 2024
Summary
Many struggling with depression and anxiety found significant relief. A treatment involving repeated at-home sublingual ketamine was explored for these conditions. It showed notable symptom reduction and a favorable safety profile, with minimal adverse effects and no long-term use concerns. This suggests a promising, well-tolerated mental health option.
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of repeated at-home ketamine treatments for depression, generalized anxiety, and social anxiety and assess ...
Transient peripheral blood transcriptomic response to ketamine treatment in children with ADNP syndrome
medRxiv Preprint Server – January 29, 2024
Summary
Ketamine treatment for a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, ADNP syndrome, profoundly alters blood gene activity. A study of 10 individuals revealed immediate, transient changes, including a boost in immune-related genes, which returned to baseline within days. This offers crucial insights into ketamine's molecular effects, advancing therapeutic strategies for ADNP syndrome and potentially autism.
Abstract
Activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder resulting in intellectual disability, developmenta...
Transient destabilization of whole brain dynamics induced by DMT
bioRxiv – January 29, 2024
Summary
Our brains usually maintain stable activity patterns. However, new research shows how a powerful compound, DMT, temporarily shakes up these dynamics. Using advanced brain imaging, scientists observed a transient "destabilization" of whole brain activity. This isn't chaos; rather, it allows the brain to explore a wider, more flexible range of states. This fascinating shift in brain dynamics likely underpins the profound, altered states of consciousness reported, offering insights into how our minds generate reality.
Abstract
Transient destabilization of whole brain dynamics induced by DMT
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...
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for cancer patients
International Journal of Whole Person Care – January 29, 2024
Summary
Compelling evidence indicates Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy, guided by a psychotherapist, offers a safe and effective treatment for profound demoralization and death anxiety in patients with advanced cancer. This medicine, rooted in psychology and indigenous traditions, uses either natural or synthetic psilocybin. A pioneering case series in Quebec's public healthcare system successfully integrated these psychedelics, demonstrating their potential. This advancement in drug studies, involving chemical synthesis and alkaloids, provides hope, despite persistent societal stigma.
Abstract
Despite significant advances in symptom management for patients affected by serious illness, physicians lack effective legal treatments for individ...
Third-Generation Antipsychotics and Lurasidone in the Treatment of Substance-Induced Psychoses: A Narrative Review.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) – January 29, 2024
Summary
Modern antipsychotic medications show promise in treating psychosis triggered by substance use. Newer drugs like aripiprazole, brexpiprazole, and lurasidone work differently than older treatments, offering better outcomes with fewer side effects. These medications effectively manage hallucinations and delusions while helping patients who struggle with both psychosis and substance use disorders. They're particularly effective for psychosis caused by stimulants and cannabis.
Abstract
This narrative review explores the efficacy and tolerability of third-generation antipsychotics (TGAs)-aripiprazole, cariprazine, brexpiprazole, an...
Intensity of Psychoactive Substance Use Affects the Occurrence of Prodromal Symptoms of Psychosis.
Journal of clinical medicine – January 28, 2024
Summary
Heavy drug use may predict early warning signs of psychosis, according to data from 703 substance users. Higher scores on drug addiction screenings (DUDIT) strongly correlated with increased prodromal symptoms - early indicators that can precede serious mental health conditions. Cannabis, MDMA, and amphetamine users who started earlier in life showed greater risk of developing these concerning symptoms. The findings highlight the link between substance intensity and psychological vulnerability.
Abstract
Psychosis is defined as a series of symptoms that impair the mind and lead to a kind of loss of reference to reality. Development of psychosis is u...
The Effects of Psilocybin on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation in THP-1 Human Macrophages
Psychoactives – January 28, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin significantly reduces inflammation in a dose-dependent manner, offering new insights for Psychedelics and Drug Studies. When a THP1 cell line, stimulated with 500 ng/mL Lipopolysaccharide to induce inflammation, was exposed to psilocybin, it inversely correlated with proinflammatory cytokine production. This suggests psilocybin's potential to modulate neuroinflammation, a key mechanism in Neurodegeneration Mechanisms and various brain disorders linked to tryptophan metabolism.
Abstract
Psilocybin, an innate compound produced by mushrooms belonging to the Psilocybe genus, is primarily known for its agonistic effects on the serotoni...
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...
Persons With Spinal Cord Injury Report Peripherally Dominant Serotonin-Like Syndrome After Use of Serotonergic Psychedelics
Neurotrauma Reports – January 26, 2024
Summary
Many with spinal cord injuries are exploring psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD. A key insight reveals they often experience intense muscle spasms and other sensitivities, suggesting a unique, peripherally dominant serotonin-like reaction. Understanding this phenomenon is vital for developing protocols to safely harness the therapeutic potential of these compounds, including MDMA, for this population.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) may treat various mental health conditions. Despite its promising therapeutic signal across mental health outcom...
The mechanistic divide in psychedelic neuroscience: An unbridgeable gap?
Neurotherapeutics – January 25, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD work through two distinct pathways in the brain - molecular changes at the cellular level and broader network-level effects on consciousness. While scientists have extensively studied both mechanisms separately, bridging these two levels of understanding remains a key challenge in explaining how psychedelics create their unique effects on human experience and therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
The mechanistic divide in psychedelic neuroscience: An unbridgeable gap?
Opioid use disorder: current trends and potential treatments
Frontiers in Public Health – January 25, 2024
Summary
Opioid overdose deaths are at an all-time high, revealing current medicine's limitations against Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). Despite increased buprenorphine and naloxone access, and harm reduction strategies, this public health crisis persists. Novel approaches are urgently needed beyond existing Opiate Substitution Treatment. Future strategies, including psychedelics and other interventional therapies, are being explored. These aim to not only prevent opioid overdose fatalities but also attenuate OUD and address co-occurring psychiatric conditions, offering more durable solutions for public health.
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a major public health threat, contributing to morbidity and mortality from addiction, overdose, and related medical co...
Psilocybin and eugenol prevent DSS-induced neuroinflammation in mice
Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology – January 25, 2024
Summary
Oral psilocybin, a tryptophan-derived alkaloid, significantly reduced neuroinflammation in a colitis mouse model. Eugenol, a plant compound, also demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects. Both, relevant to pharmacology and medicine, decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 in the brain. Combined psilocybin and eugenol showed the strongest reduction in IL-6, suggesting potential in drug studies for brain disorders linked to inflammation. These findings illuminate new avenues for targeting neuroinflammation, potentially involving microglia, offering new insights into medicine.
Abstract
Neuroinflammation has emerged as a central pathology common to several acute and chronic brain diseases. Recent studies have displayed the anti-inf...