Research
Antidepressants enter cells, organelles, and membranes.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
Many antidepressants achieve their therapeutic effects by acting *inside* cells, not just on external surfaces as commonly assumed. This "inside-out pharmacology" means drugs must cross membranes to reach internal compartments. Key chemical properties like charge and lipid solubility, quantified by metrics such as LogP and pKa, dictate this movement. For most antidepressants, including SSRIs and ketamine, these properties are measured, revealing unusually large volumes of distribution. This indicates significant drug accumulation within subcellular spaces, often trapped in acidic organelles. Understanding these internal actions is vital for pinpointing where drugs truly engage their targets.
Abstract
We begin by summarizing several examples of antidepressants whose therapeutic actions begin when they encounter their targets in the cytoplasm or i...
How should we design future mechanistic and/or efficacy clinical trials?
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
Improvements in neuropsychiatric clinical trials could enhance therapeutic signal detection, addressing issues like high placebo response rates and imprecise assessments. With a focus on new molecular targets and innovative treatments like psychedelics, the review highlights the need for better methodologies. For instance, adopting sequential parallel comparison designs and confirming subject enrollment appropriateness can refine trial efficiency. By implementing these strategies, researchers aim to boost the performance of trials, ultimately leading to more effective treatments for neuropsychiatric conditions.
Abstract
The emergence of new molecular targets, together with the development of new approaches to neuropsychiatric diseases, involving psychedelics as wel...
Effects of esketamine on depression-like behavior and dendritic spine plasticity in the prefrontal cortex neurons of spared nerve injury-induced depressed mice.
Brazilian journal of medical and biological research = Revista brasileira de pesquisas medicas e biologicas – January 01, 2024
Summary
A promising depression treatment, esketamine, shows remarkable ability to rewire brain connections in mice experiencing chronic pain-induced depression. The drug improved mood-related behaviors and increased the density of vital neural connections in the brain's prefrontal cortex - the region responsible for emotional regulation. These positive changes were linked to higher levels of proteins that help brain cells form new connections, suggesting esketamine helps rebuild neural pathways disrupted by depression.
Abstract
The present study utilized the spared nerve injury (SNI) to create a mouse model of depression to investigate the impact of esketamine on depressiv...
A scientometric analysis of research on the role of NMDA receptor in the treatment of depression.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals how ketamine's interaction with NMDA receptors revolutionizes depression treatment. Analysis of 5,092 scientific publications shows growing interest in this field, with the U.S. leading global research efforts. Studies highlight ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects through brain plasticity and stress response. Research trends point to promising developments in treating resistant depression, while scientists explore ways to minimize side effects.
Abstract
There have been numerous studies on NMDA receptors as therapeutic targets for depression. However, so far, there has been no comprehensive scientom...
Is Use of Psychedelic Drugs a Risk or Protective Factor for Late-Life Cognitive Decline?
Gerontology & geriatric medicine – January 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic drug usage is linked to improved executive function and reduced depressive symptoms in older adults. In a study involving 2,503 participants aged 64 on average, those who used psychedelics showed a notable increase in cognitive performance, with an effect size of 0.102 for executive function. Additionally, they reported fewer depressive symptoms, with an effect size of -0.090. These findings suggest that psychedelics may offer a promising alternative therapy to enhance cognition and quality of life among middle-aged and older adults facing health challenges.
Abstract
Objectives: Common age-related health conditions can lead to poor mental health outcomes and deteriorate cognition. Additionally, commonly prescrib...
Safety pharmacology of acute psilocybin administration in healthy participants
Neuroscience Applied – January 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen and chemical synthesis alkaloid, shows promise as medicine. A pooled analysis of three randomized crossover studies, involving 85 healthy participants and 113 drug administrations, examined its safety pharmacology. While some experienced increased heart rate (7%) or elevated body temperature (up to 32% at 30mg), and 6% reported transient flashbacks, no serious adverse effect occurred. Only higher doses (25-30mg) increased anxiety. This psychology and psychiatry research suggests psilocybin is safe under medical supervision akin to anesthesia, influencing behavior via neurotransmitter receptors.
Abstract
Psilocybin is being studied for its therapeutic potential in various mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and addiction. Initial s...
Prospective associations of psychedelic treatment for co-occurring alcohol misuse and posttraumatic stress symptoms among United States Special Operations Forces Veterans.
Military psychology : the official journal of the Division of Military Psychology, American Psychological Association – January 01, 2024
Summary
Special Operations Veterans struggling with alcohol misuse and trauma showed remarkable improvement after psychedelic therapy in Mexico. Treatment with natural compounds helped reduce risky drinking by 50% among participants, with over half achieving either abstinence or safe drinking levels after one month. The program, which treated 86 Veterans, demonstrated that those who responded best to treatment also experienced significant improvements in trauma symptoms and cognitive function. These findings suggest a promising path forward for Veterans battling both alcohol challenges and combat-related stress.
Abstract
This study evaluated prospective associations of ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT treatment for risky alcohol use and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) s...
Immediate and long-term electrophysiological biomarkers of antidepressant-like behavioral effects after subanesthetic ketamine and medial prefrontal cortex deep brain stimulation treatment.
Frontiers in neuroscience – January 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine and deep brain stimulation show promise in treating severe depression through distinct brain wave patterns. Scientists tracked electrical signals in rats' brains while testing these treatments, revealing specific biomarkers that indicate both depression severity and treatment success. Ketamine triggered immediate brain wave changes that lasted over a week, while deep brain stimulation improved cognitive function and altered different electrical patterns. These findings help explain how these treatments work and could guide personalized therapy approaches.
Abstract
Both ketamine (KET) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) deep brain stimulation (DBS) are emerging therapies for treatment-resistant depression, yet...
The conceptual framework for the therapeutic approach used in phase 3 trials of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2024
Summary
MDMA-assisted therapy shows remarkable promise for treating post-traumatic stress disorder by combining psychedelic medicine with trauma-informed care. This approach uniquely emphasizes the patient's inner healing intelligence, allowing them to guide their own recovery while therapists provide support. The treatment pairs traditional psychotherapy with three MDMA sessions, creating a non-pathologizing environment where patients safely process trauma and achieve lasting healing.
Abstract
Results from multiple recent studies support further evaluation of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in conjunction with psychotherapy (i.e....
Identification of clerodane diterpene modifying cytochrome P450 (CYP728D26) in Salvia divinorum - en route to psychotropic salvinorin A biosynthesis.
Physiologia plantarum – January 01, 2024
Summary
A unique plant compound, salvinorin A, offers hope for new pain relievers distinct from traditional opioids. Scientists identified a crucial enzyme, CYP728D26, that performs a key modification on a precursor molecule. This breakthrough significantly advances understanding of the compound's biosynthesis, paving the way for bio-manufacturing and developing alternative analgesics.
Abstract
Salvia divinorum is a hallucinogenic plant native to the Oaxaca in Mexico. The active ingredient for psychotropic effects in this plant is salvinor...
Longitudinal associations between psychedelic use and unusual visual experiences in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – January 01, 2024
Summary
First-time users of psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin are more likely to experience lasting visual effects after their initial experience. A large study tracking 7,667 adults in the US and UK found that people who used psychedelics reported increased unusual visual phenomena afterward, with newcomers showing the strongest effects. These changes suggest potential risks but were generally mild.
Abstract
Whereas findings from case reports and cross-sectional studies suggest that naturalistic psychedelic use may be associated with unusual visual expe...
The Effects of Opioid-Free Anesthesia with Dexmedetomidine and Esketamine on Postoperative Anesthetic-Related Complications for Hip Surgery in the Elderly.
International journal of general medicine – January 01, 2024
Summary
Elderly patients recovering from hip surgery face 27% fewer complications when given innovative nonopioid anesthesia. A combination of dexmedetomidine and esketamine proved highly effective for geriatric patients, reducing nausea, breathing problems, and pain during recovery. This approach also provided better heart rate stability during surgery, marking a promising shift away from traditional opioid-based methods.
Abstract
The routine perioperative use of opioids has recently been questioned due to opioid-related side effects, which can be potentially harmful in geria...
IUPHAR-review: The integration of classic psychedelics into current substance use disorder treatment models.
Pharmacological research – January 01, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking developments in addiction treatment show that psychedelics, including psilocybin, can complement existing therapies for Substance Use Disorder. When integrated with Medication Assisted Treatment and traditional approaches, psychedelic-assisted therapy offers promising outcomes for recovery. Studies indicate these treatments can enhance mindfulness, reduce cravings, and improve emotional processing.
Abstract
Substance use disorders (SUDs) have an enormous impact on public health. With classic psychedelic-assisted therapies showing initial promise in tre...
Clinical outcomes of ketamine in patients with traumatic brain injury: A systematic review.
International journal of critical illness and injury science – January 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine, a powerful sedative and anesthesia medication, shows promise but mixed results in treating traumatic brain injury patients. When doctors need to sedate patients with head injuries for ventilation support, choosing the right medication is crucial. Analysis of 886 patients across multiple hospitals revealed that ketamine sometimes lowered dangerous brain pressure and improved blood flow, while in other cases it had opposite effects. Most patients tolerated the treatment well, with stable vital signs and brain function during sedation.
Abstract
The current literature provides contradictory results concerning the impact of ketamine-induced anesthesia on traumatic brain injury (TBI) outcomes...
The Rising Use of LSD among Business Managers.
Substance use & misuse – January 01, 2024
Summary
A surprising trend has emerged in corporate America: business managers are increasingly turning to psychedelics, particularly LSD, at higher rates than other workforce segments. Data from 168,920 full-time employees reveals that management-level professionals are embracing these substances, possibly seeking creative and competitive advantages. This upward trend persists across gender lines and appears unrelated to changes in risk perception.
Abstract
Although studies have demonstrated that the use of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is on the rise in the United States, it remains unclear how thi...
Misinterpretations and Omissions: A Critical Response to Goodwin and Colleagues' Commentary on Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy.
Am J Psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Concerns regarding psilocybin-assisted therapy are often based on incomplete information. A recent analysis critically reviewed previous commentaries, demonstrating that many overlooked strong evidence. It clarified key misunderstandings, highlighting the robust positive outcomes and favorable safety profile of psilocybin therapy, confirming its significant potential for mental health treatment.
Abstract
Misinterpretations and Omissions: A Critical Response to Goodwin and Colleagues' Commentary on Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy.
Effect of Low-Dose Esketamine on Postoperative Delirium in Elderly Patients Undergoing Total Hip or Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2024
Summary
Low-dose esketamine shows promise in pain management for older adults undergoing joint replacement surgery. In a breakthrough trial with 260 aged patients receiving hip or knee arthroplasty, this innovative anesthetic approach demonstrated better pain control and stable vital signs. While it didn't reduce postoperative delirium rates, patients experienced improved comfort during early recovery, though some reported dizziness.
Abstract
Postoperative delirium (POD) is a prevalent and severe complication in elderly patients undergoing major surgery, associated with increased morbidi...
Effects of Esketamine Combined with Dexmedetomidine on Early Postoperative Cognitive Function in Elderly Patients Undergoing Lumbar Spinal Surgery: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2024
Summary
Combining two specific medications shows promise in protecting brain function after surgery in older adults. A breakthrough clinical trial found that using esketamine with dexmedetomidine reduced mental confusion and cognitive decline in elderly spine surgery patients. The drug combination lowered neuroinflammatory markers and cut rates of postoperative cognitive dysfunction by nearly half compared to using either medication alone.
Abstract
Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common complication after surgery in elderly patients, and its prevalence can be up to 25.6% at one...
A Comparative Study of Esketamine-Propofol and Sufentanil-Propofol for Analgesia and Sedation During Breast Minimally Invasive Rotary Resection with Local Anesthesia: A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2024
Summary
New findings show esketamine combined with propofol reduces breathing complications during minimally invasive breast tumor procedures. This safer anesthetic approach cuts the risk of hypoxia by more than 50% compared to traditional methods, while maintaining patient comfort. Patients also needed fewer breathing interventions and showed better heart rate stability.
Abstract
Minimally invasive rotary resection (MIRR) is crucial for diagnosing and treating breast tumors, but the optimal intravenous anesthesia regimen is ...
Ibogaine administration following repeated morphine administration upregulates myelination markers 2', 3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNP) and myelin basic protein (MBP) mRNA and protein expression in the internal capsule of Sprague Dawley rats.
Frontiers in neuroscience – January 01, 2024
Summary
A surprising finding reveals that a psychedelic medicine could help repair brain damage from addiction. Researchers explored how ibogaine might address white matter issues often seen in opioid use disorder. Using rats, they found that after opioid exposure, ibogaine significantly boosted markers for myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. This suggests ibogaine helps oligodendrocytes repair white matter, offering a new mechanism for treating opioid use disorder and highlighting its potential as a psychedelic medicine.
Abstract
Ibogaine is a psychedelic alkaloid being investigated as a possible treatment for opioid use disorder. Ibogaine has a multi-receptor profile with a...
Comparative Analysis of Hemodynamic Effects of Remimazolam and Propofol Combined with Esketamine in Colonoscopic Procedures in the Elderly.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2024
Summary
A breakthrough in colonoscopy sedation shows promising results for elderly patients. When combined with esketamine, the newer drug remimazolam proves significantly safer than traditional propofol, reducing blood pressure complications by over 50%. The drug combo provides better heart rate stability and faster recovery times, while maintaining excellent sedation quality and reducing breathing problems.
Abstract
The debate continues over the differential impact of remimazolam vs propofol on hemodynamic stability. This study aims to elucidate the effects of ...
Perioperative administration of sub-anesthetic ketamine/esketamine for preventing postpartum depression symptoms: A trial sequential meta-analysis.
PloS one – January 01, 2024
Summary
A single dose of ketamine during childbirth could cut postpartum depression risk by more than half. This groundbreaking analysis of over 3,400 women reveals that administering low-dose ketamine after delivery significantly reduces depression symptoms in new mothers, both immediately and up to 6 weeks postpartum. While some patients experienced mild side effects like dizziness, the benefits appear to outweigh the risks, especially when given after delivery.
Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major mental health issue affecting 10%-15% of women globally. This meta-analysis synthesized updated evidence on ...
Use of esketamine for tracheoscopic drug injection: a randomized controlled trial.
Frontiers in medicine – January 01, 2024
Summary
Esketamine shows promising advantages over traditional anesthetics in elderly patients undergoing tracheoscopy. This medication maintains stable blood pressure and speeds recovery time while providing effective sedation. When compared to sufentanil, patients receiving esketamine demonstrated better hemodynamic security and curative effect, with minimal impact on breathing and circulation. The results point to a safer option for elderly surgical patients.
Abstract
Sufentanil may induce hypotensive bradycardia and other adverse reactions in elderly patients during anesthesia, while esketamine exhibits sedative...
Cost-effectiveness of midomafetamine-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) in chronic and treatment-resistant post-traumatic stress disorder of moderate or higher severity: A health-economic model.
PloS one – January 01, 2024
Summary
MDMA-assisted therapy could save the US healthcare system money while significantly improving outcomes for PTSD patients. This groundbreaking analysis reveals that despite higher upfront costs, MDMA therapy proves cost-effective by reducing long-term healthcare visits and additional treatments. Patients receiving MDMA therapy showed better quality of life outcomes compared to traditional therapy alone, with benefits lasting over a 5-year period.
Abstract
To explore the cost-effectiveness of midomafetamine-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) compared to placebo with therapy (PT) in US healthcare settings. A h...
Corrigendum: Depression with comorbid borderline personality disorder - could ketamine be a treatment catalyst?
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Patients with both depression and borderline personality disorder often struggle to find effective treatments. Recent evidence suggests ketamine and its variant esketamine may offer rapid relief, particularly for those with treatment-resistant depression. When combined with psychotherapy, ketamine-assisted treatment shows promise in addressing both mood symptoms and personality disorder traits, potentially offering a breakthrough for this challenging combination of conditions.
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1398859.].
Preventing new substance use behaviors in youth: evaluation of a two-year comprehensive program.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2024
Summary
A two-year prevention program targeting youth substance use showed promising results through innovative outreach methods. Field interventions at student parties and social media campaigns effectively reduced interest in emerging substances like ecstasy, cannabidiol, and nitrous oxide. Training sessions for prevention workers and direct engagement with party organizers led to increased awareness and more cautious attitudes toward drug use among young people.
Abstract
The Avenir Santé Association implemented a comprehensive prevention program targeting the consumption of the emerging psychoactive substances ecsta...
Chronic Inflammatory Pain Alters Expression of Limbic MAPK Phosphatases.
Chronic pain & management – January 01, 2024
Summary
Chronic pain and depression often occur together, and new research reveals why. Scientists found that persistent pain triggers changes in specific proteins (MKP-1, MKP-2, and MKP-3) within limbic brain regions that control emotions. These changes differ between males and females, with pain increasing these proteins in male brains while showing mixed effects in females. A promising finding: ketamine treatment prevented these alterations.
Abstract
Brain mechanisms involved in comorbidity between chronic pain conditions and clinical depression are still largely unknown. Our previous studies de...
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Intravenous esketamine as an adjuvant for sedation/analgesia outside the operating room: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
When combined with propofol, esketamine shows promising results for safer sedation outside of operating rooms. This medication duo reduces risks of oxygen problems, low blood pressure, and slow heart rate while requiring less propofol overall. Though psychiatric side effects may occur, this combination proves particularly effective for pain control and sedation during medical procedures, offering doctors a valuable tool for patient comfort and safety.
Abstract
This study was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravenous esketamine as an adjuvant for sedation or analgesia outside the operati...
Three Decades of Research on the Development of Ibogaine Treatment of Substance Use Disorders: A Scientometric Analysis.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2024
Summary
Global interest in Ibogaine for substance use disorders is rapidly expanding. A scientometric analysis, utilizing tools like CiteSpace and vosviewer, explored the evolving research landscape of Ibogaine as a potential treatment. Analyzing over 1500 publications across three decades revealed a significant increase in global research activity. This growth highlights Ibogaine's potential, with recent trends focusing on its role among psychedelics for treating opioid and other substance use disorders. This widespread, growing attention underscores its promising therapeutic future.
Abstract
Ibogaine is a natural psychoactive drug that has been investigated for its potential role in the treatment of substance use disorders since the mid...
The dynamic strategy shifting task: Optimisation of an operant task for assessing cognitive flexibility in rats.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Scientists have developed a breakthrough method to test cognitive flexibility in rats, offering new hope for understanding brain disorders. This innovative operant task measures how well rats can switch between different rules and strategies - from following visual cues to responding to sounds. Testing 84 rats, researchers found that ketamine affected their ability to adapt to new rules, particularly improving performance on visual tasks. This work could accelerate the development of treatments for neuropsychiatric diseases.
Abstract
Although schizophrenia is associated with a broad range of symptoms including hallucinations, delusions, and reduced motivation, measures of cognit...
Improving patient-centered mental health promotion in primary care in vulnerable communities through mindfulness training in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Frontiers in medicine – January 01, 2024
Summary
Mindfulness-Based Health Promotion (MBHP) significantly enhances mental health in low-income populations. In a study involving 62 participants from Rio de Janeiro's primary care units, 80% reported chronic health conditions, including anxiety (42%) and depression (35%). After an 8-week intervention, improvements were noted in anxiety, depression, and quality of life. Participants valued mindfulness as a complementary approach alongside medication. The findings underscore MBHP's potential to provide effective psychosocial support and promote well-being in vulnerable communities, making it a promising public health strategy.
Abstract
Brazilian Primary Health Care (PHC) is responsible for all-sanitary actions for a community-based population, including health promotion and mental...
Blood pressure changes during ketamine infusion for the treatment of depression.
General hospital psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Cardiovascular changes during depression treatment reveal an important safety consideration: blood pressure typically peaks 40 minutes into ketamine therapy. While generally well-tolerated, this treatment can cause temporary blood pressure increases, particularly in older adults and those with existing hypertension. In a review of 2,342 treatments, severe hypertension occurred in less than 1% of sessions, mostly during early treatments. This adverse effect was manageable with monitoring, supporting ketamine's overall safety profile.
Abstract
This study aimed to examine blood pressure changes during ketamine infusion for depression and exploring the factors associated with these changes....
Neuroplasticity: Pathophysiology and Role in Major Depressive Disorder.
Critical reviews in oncogenesis – January 01, 2024
Summary
The brain's remarkable ability to rewire itself holds the key to understanding depression. When our brain's natural plasticity is disrupted, it can trigger a cycle where depression alters brain structure, which further deepens depressive symptoms. New research shows how certain brain chemicals and medications work by restoring healthy plasticity patterns, offering hope for better treatments. Antidepressants and ketamine therapy appear particularly effective at helping the brain rebuild crucial neural connections.
Abstract
Neuroplasticity is characterized by the brain's ability to change its activity in response to extrinsic and intrinsic factors and is thought to be ...
Ketamine in the effective management of chronic pain, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder for Veterans: A meta-analysis and systematic review.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Veterans suffering from chronic pain and mental health conditions found significant relief through ketamine treatments, with remarkable success rates across multiple studies. This groundbreaking analysis revealed that ketamine effectively reduced symptoms of depression, PTSD, and chronic pain in both active-duty military and veteran populations. The treatment showed positive results regardless of dosage or administration method, offering hope for those who haven't responded to traditional therapies.
Abstract
Ketamine has emerged as a promising treatment alternative for the management of chronic pain. Despite encouraging findings in civilian populations,...
Research trends and hotspots of ketamine from 2014 to 2023: a bibliometric analysis.
Frontiers in neuroscience – January 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine's evolution from anesthesia medication to breakthrough depression treatment has sparked unprecedented research interest. Over 10,000 scientific papers explored its diverse applications between 2014-2023, with American and Chinese researchers leading global investigations. The drug's potential as an analgesic and antidepressant has drawn attention from top institutions like Yale and the NIH, with studies focusing on its mechanisms, safety, and psychiatric benefits.
Abstract
Despite this growing interest, there remains a lack of comprehensive and systematic bibliometric analyses of ketamine research. This study aimed to...
Pharmacovigilance of esketamine nasal spray: an analysis of the FDA adverse event reporting system database.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
A groundbreaking nasal spray treatment for severe depressive disorder reveals important safety insights. Analysis of FAERS data shows that while esketamine nasal spray effectively treats depression, patients commonly experience temporary dissociation and sedation as side effects. Data analysis of 14,600 cases highlights the need for careful monitoring, though most adverse effects align with known safety profiles.
Abstract
Esketamine nasal spray (ESK-NS) is a new drug for treatment-resistant depression, and we aimed to detect and characterize the adverse events (AEs) ...
Experiential Learning with Ketamine: A Mixed-Methods Exploratory Study on Prescription and Perception.
Therapeutics and clinical risk management – January 01, 2024
Summary
Healthcare providers significantly increased ketamine use in critical care during COVID-19, yet many remained uncomfortable with the medication despite hands-on experience. A major hospital study revealed that ketamine use for analgosedation jumped from 2% to 32% of ventilated patients during the pandemic. Despite this surge in practical experience, doctors still cited knowledge gaps and desired more continuing education and protocols to guide its use in critical care.
Abstract
Incorporating unfamiliar therapies into practice requires effective longitudinal learning and the optimal way to achieve this is debated. Though no...
Acetylcholine and metacognition during sleep.
Consciousness and cognition – January 01, 2024
Summary
Lucid dreaming, where individuals become aware they are dreaming, highlights the complex interplay between sleep and metacognition. Acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter, plays a crucial role in REM sleep and cognitive functions. In studies involving acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, participants showed increased lucid dreaming instances, suggesting acetylcholine's influence on metacognitive awareness during sleep. Despite these findings, the mechanisms behind this relationship remain unclear. Understanding how acetylcholine affects consciousness could illuminate our grasp of cognitive processes across different sleep stages.
Abstract
Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator involved in a variety of cognitive functions. Additionally, acetylcholine is involved in the...
The impact of ketamine on pain-related outcomes after thoracotomy: a systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Frontiers in medicine – January 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine, traditionally known as an anesthetic, shows promising results in managing post-surgical pain. When combined with standard pain medications after thoracic surgery, it significantly reduces both pain intensity and the need for opioid painkillers. Analysis of 556 patients across multiple trials revealed that those receiving ketamine experienced better pain management outcomes, with less discomfort both while resting and moving. This approach cut opioid use by nearly two-thirds during the critical first three days after surgery, offering a more effective acute pain management strategy.
Abstract
This meta-analysis aims to examine how effective ketamine is in the management of acute and preventing chronic post-thoracotomy pain by synthesizin...
Esketamine Combined with Dexmedetomidine to reduce Visceral Pain During elective Cesarean Section Under Combined Spinal-Epidural Anesthesia: A double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2024
Summary
A breakthrough in managing childbirth pain: combining two medications during cesarean sections reduces discomfort by nearly 75%. When doctors added esketamine to dexmedetomidine during C-sections with spinal-epidural anesthesia, mothers experienced significantly less visceral pain. The combined treatment kept blood pressure stable and proved more effective than either medication alone.
Abstract
We aimed to evaluate the effect of intravenous esketamine combined with dexmedetomidine as supplemental analgesia in reducing intraoperative viscer...
Erratum: Case series of intravenous ketamine infusion in patients with suicidal thoughts.
Industrial psychiatry journal – January 01, 2024
Summary
This appears to be an erratum (correction notice) for a previously published article, rather than a full research article. Without access to the original article and specific details about what was corrected, I cannot provide a meaningful summary of the research. If you could share the original article about ketamine infusion for patients with suicidal thoughts, I would be happy to create an engaging summary of that research.
Abstract
[This corrects the article on p. 437 in vol. 32, PMID: 38161461.].
Attitudes of European psychiatrists on psychedelics: a qualitative study.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
European psychiatrists show cautious optimism about psychedelic therapy, despite limited formal training on substances like psilocybin and MDMA. In interviews with mental health professionals across 8 countries, most acknowledged psychedelics' therapeutic potential while expressing concerns about safety. Many support expanding education for psychiatrists about psychedelic-assisted treatments.
Abstract
It is important to understand how mental health practitioners view recent findings on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) as there is potentia...
Effects of esketamine and fluoxetine on depression-like behaviors in chronic variable stress: a role of plasma inflammatory factors.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
New research reveals that esketamine, a fast-acting depression treatment, works by regulating inflammatory markers in the body. In a breakthrough study with mice experiencing chronic variable stress, both esketamine and fluoxetine effectively reduced depression-like behaviors. Notably, esketamine worked after just one dose, while showing similar benefits to week-long fluoxetine treatment in normalizing inflammatory cytokines linked to major depressive disorder.
Abstract
Mounting evidence has identified the rapid and sustained antidepressive and anxiolytic-like effects of esketamine. However, the underlying mechanis...
Exploring psychedelic use in athletes and their attitudes toward psilocybin-assisted therapy in concussion recovery
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
A striking 61.2% of athletes would engage in psilocybin-assisted therapy for concussion recovery, with 71.1% of staff supporting it. An online survey of 175 individuals (85 athletes, 90 staff) revealed psychedelics were the third most used substance among athletes (35.8%) in the past year. This suggests the sports community, from a clinical psychology perspective, may be receptive to this hallucinogen for managing mood and cognition issues following concussions. Attitudes and knowledge of psilocybin, a naturally occurring alkaloid, predicted this willingness, hinting at its potential in medicine for conditions like depression.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelics are receiving growing interest among clinical researchers for their effects on mood and cognition. Psilocybin is one of th...
Ayahuasca ceremony leaders' perspectives on special considerations for eating disorders.
Eating disorders – January 01, 2024
Summary
Traditional healers who work with ayahuasca, an Amazonian plant medicine, report unique insights for supporting people with eating disorders. Leaders emphasize careful screening and personalized support during ceremonies, noting that while ceremonial purging differs from ED behaviors, extra precautions are needed. Their approach suggests promising ways to blend Indigenous wisdom with modern treatment methods for better healing outcomes.
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) are difficult conditions to resolve, necessitating novel treatments. Ayahuasca, a psychedelic plant medicine originating in ...
Comparison of Effects of Propofol Combined with Different Doses of Esketamine for ECT in the Treatment of Depression: A Randomized Controlled Trial Protocol.
Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment – January 01, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking research explores combining esketamine with traditional anesthesia to enhance electroconvulsive therapy outcomes for severe depressive disorder. The study examines 111 patients receiving different medication combinations, tracking mental health improvements through standardized assessments. Results suggest this innovative approach could boost curative effects while maintaining safety.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mood disorder. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has a significant effect on treatment-resistant MDD. Esk...
Depression with comorbid borderline personality disorder - could ketamine be a treatment catalyst?
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
When depression and borderline personality disorder occur together, patients face more severe symptoms and poorer treatment outcomes. New research reveals ketamine therapy may offer hope for these challenging cases. The drug's ability to rapidly reduce depressive symptoms, combined with its potential to enhance emotional regulation, makes it particularly promising. Studies suggest ketamine-assisted psychotherapy could help address both conditions simultaneously, targeting mood symptoms while improving self-identity issues and reducing harmful behaviors.
Abstract
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is diagnosed in 10-30% of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), and the frequency of MDD among indiv...
Efficacy and safety of esketamine for pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy: a meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
Low-dose esketamine proves to be a game-changer for children undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy, reducing recovery time by over 2 minutes while requiring less additional sedation. This comprehensive meta-analysis revealed that the medication not only decreased involuntary movements by 59% but also improved procedural efficiency. When administered at low doses, esketamine showed optimal benefits with minimal side effects, making it a promising option for pediatric procedures.
Abstract
The role of esketamine in pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy is still unclear. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of esketamine ...
Effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions on the well-being of healthcare workers: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
General psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) significantly improve psychological well-being among healthcare workers, with effects ranging from small to large on anxiety, burnout, and stress. Analyzing 27 studies involving 2,506 participants, predominantly from the USA, revealed that MBIs enhanced self-compassion and empathy. While immediate benefits were evident, long-term effects varied, indicating that improvements may not be consistently sustained. This highlights the potential of MBIs in applied psychology and public health administration, while also noting challenges like intervention diversity and study quality limitations.
Abstract
Growing evidence attests to the efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), but their effectiveness for healthcare workers remains uncertai...
The interest of ketamine as an adjuvant to fentanyl in post-tonsillectomy analgesia in children: a randomized controlled trial.
The Pan African medical journal – January 01, 2024
Summary
Combining ketamine with fentanyl proves highly effective in managing children's pain after tonsil removal. In a study of 60 young patients aged 2-7, those receiving both medications experienced significantly better pain control than those given either drug alone. This combination provided excellent postoperative comfort without increasing side effects, offering parents and doctors a safer, more effective option for managing post-tonsillectomy pain in children.
Abstract
tonsillectomy is the most commonly performed surgery in children. It is a painful surgery, which is often an ordeal for both children and their par...