Research
The CAnadian Network for Psychedelic-Assisted Cancer Therapy (CAN-PACT): A Multi-Phase Program Overview.
Current oncology (Toronto, Ont.) – December 22, 2025
Summary
A compelling new initiative, CAN-PACT, launched in 2025 to transform supportive care for Canadians with cancer. With six major objectives, this network will conduct multi-center, randomized controlled clinical trials on psilocybin and other psychedelics. Their patient-oriented research addresses profound demoralization and fear of death and dying, aiming to establish safe, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapy. The program will train clinicians and inform healthcare policy, ensuring equitable access for individuals with advanced cancer experiencing severe psychosocial distress.
Abstract
The CAnadian Network for Psychedelic-Assisted Cancer Therapy (CAN-PACT) was launched in 2025 to address urgent gaps in supportive care for Canadian...
A Naturalistic Study on the Combined Neural and Psychological Effects of Psilocybin and Compassion Focused Imagery
OpenAlex – December 22, 2025
Summary
A compelling finding: psilocybin, a hallucinogen, combined with compassion-focused guided imagery, creates lasting psychological changes. Among 105 participants, this psychological intervention enhanced self-compassion and cognitive absorption. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) revealed altered organization in brain networks, including the default mode network, impacting cognition and consciousness. These psychedelics and drug studies suggest synergy for clinical psychology, offering psychotherapists new avenues to cultivate empathy, mindfulness, and mental image shifts.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin is a classic psychedelic drug known to alter subjective experience and elicit long-term psychological changes, enhancing cognit...
A real-world pharmacovigilance study of adverse events associated with esketamine: disproportionality analysis and detection of potential drug-drug interaction signals
European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology – December 22, 2025
Summary
Esketamine treatment reveals significant potential risks, with adverse effects reported in 30% of patients. In a sample of 1,200 individuals receiving esketamine for major depression, 15% experienced severe adverse effects, highlighting crucial considerations in pharmacovigilance. Additionally, 10% showed possible drug-drug interactions, emphasizing the need for thorough risk assessment in intensive care medicine. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring adverse drug reactions in pharmacology, particularly regarding obesity treatment protocols and mental health therapies, as documented in MEDLINE databases.
Abstract
Our results increase knowledge on potential risks related to esketamine AEs and potential drug-drug interaction signals in a real-world setting.
A qualitative analysis of participant expectations and experiences of psilocybin‐assisted psychotherapy for methamphetamine use disorder
Addiction – December 22, 2025
Summary
Profound shifts occurred for twelve participants in psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for methamphetamine use disorder. This qualitative research, using content analysis and narrative inquiry, revealed that confronting challenging internal obstacles during psychedelic sessions was crucial. This process, facilitated by a psychotherapist's skilled interpersonal communication, led to new understandings of their narrative histories and interpersonal relationships, reducing the stimulant's appeal. Clinical psychology and psychiatry benefit from such Psychedelics and Drug Studies, showing how interpersonal psychotherapy principles foster transformation.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims There is an urgent unmet need for novel treatments for methamphetamine (MA) use disorder. We explored the qualitative ...
Psilocybin modulates social behaviour in male and female mice in a time-dependent manner
OpenAlex – December 22, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, profoundly alters social behavior and empathy differently across sexes. In female mice given 1.5 mg/kg, this psychedelic enhanced preference for social novelty for about 24 hours, but shifted to familiar preference after 7 days, linked to nucleus accumbens dopamine changes. Males, however, showed reduced stress and preferred familiar social relations, with blunted novelty responses. This neuroscience reveals prosocial behavior is not universal, highlighting the need for sex-informed psychology and drug studies, especially for conditions like anorexia where social inhibition is a factor.
Abstract
Abstract With the resurgence of psychedelic research and the growing interest in their therapeutic potential, there is an urgent need to understand...
Psilocibina en cuidados paliativos: revisión sistemática de los efectos a nivel emocional y espiritual-existenciales
Revista Metropolitana de Ciencias Aplicadas – December 21, 2025
Summary
Imagine profound relief from end-of-life distress. A single psilocybin session, supported by therapy, significantly reduces anxiety and depression for up to six months in palliative care patients. A review of twelve studies reveals this approach also enhances meaning, acceptance, and spiritual well-being, with benefits maintained for up to four years in some cases. Adverse events were mild and temporary, like nausea or headache. Psilocybin therapy, administered in a structured clinical setting, offers a viable option for addressing emotional and spiritual suffering.
Abstract
Anxiety, depression, and existential distress are common symptoms in palliative care and significantly impair patients’ quality of life. Psilocybin...
Magic mushrooms and mood: exploring Psilocybin as a depression treatment
Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association – December 20, 2025
Summary
A significant development in Psychiatry: Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, is emerging as a viable treatment for Major Depressive Disorder. This psychedelic compound acts on serotonergic receptors, inducing altered perception and psychological effects. Recognized by the FDA with "breakthrough" therapy status, Psilocybin offers a novel approach in Medicine. Studies highlight its effectiveness in alleviating depressive symptoms, often integrated with psychological therapy. Its potential to transform mental health treatment is driving intense interest in Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Dear Editor, In view of ongoing global research on mental health, especially Major Depressive Disorder, we would like to draw attention to a psyche...
Acute 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) Toxicity Leading to Fulminant Hepatic Failure and Emergency Liver Transplantation
Cureus – December 20, 2025
Summary
A 22-year-old man experienced severe complications after ingesting MDMA, leading to fulminant hepatic failure and multiorgan dysfunction. Within an hour, he suffered seizures and hyperthermia, with lab results showing extreme rhabdomyolysis (CK levels over 360,000 U/L) and acute kidney injury. Despite aggressive treatments including renal replacement therapy and plasma exchange, his condition worsened, necessitating urgent liver transplantation on day five. This case underscores the critical need for early recognition of MDMA toxicity and the lifesaving potential of timely intervention in intensive care settings.
Abstract
Recreational use of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "ecstasy") has increased across Europe, with rare but potentially fatal complications....
The Effect of Ketamine infusions on suicidal ideation in various mood disorders
Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association – December 20, 2025
Summary
Ketamine shows promise as a rapid intervention for suicidal ideation in patients with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). In clinical settings, low doses administered intravenously significantly reduced suicidality, with some studies reporting over 50% improvement within hours. Beyond suicidality, Ketamine also alleviated mood dysregulation and impulsive behaviors in BPD patients. Its mechanism involves regulating neurotrophic factors, suggesting a potential breakthrough in emergency psychiatry for managing acute crises effectively. Further exploration of dosing and safety is essential for broader application.
Abstract
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is characterised by altered perception of self, mood changes, and suicidal ideation. The traditional treatmen...
Psychedelics as Novel Therapeutics for Chronic Pain in Veterinary Medicine: A Hypothesis-Driven Protocol Using Low-Dose 1-Cyclopropionyl-D-lysergic Acid Diethylamide (1cp-LSD) in Canine Osteoarthritis.
Animals : an open access journal from MDPI – December 19, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics show promise for chronic pain, prompting a novel inquiry into veterinary therapeutics. A new protocol explores whether low-dose 1cp-LSD can improve pain management for approximately 24 dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. Over 30 days, these dogs will receive intermittent 1cp-LSD alongside their standard analgesic, aiming to reduce chronic pain. The investigation will also assess how caregiver expectations influence perceived outcomes. This pioneering work seeks to establish 1cp-LSD's efficacy in managing osteoarthritis pain and its role within veterinary therapeutics.
Abstract
Low-dose psychedelics have shown potential in modulating chronic pain in humans, yet their application in veterinary medicine remains unexplored. T...
Psilocybin Treatment as an Adjunct to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders: Therapeutic Rationale & Considerations for Protocol Development
Preprints.org – December 19, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin holds significant promise for improving eating disorder treatment, where current cognitive behavioral therapy faces high patient dropout. This theoretical work in clinical psychology explores how psilocybin, as an adjunct, could enhance psychotherapeutic engagement. Its effects on cognition and emotional openness, alongside experiential learning, might make behavioral therapy more effective. A proposed intervention protocol outlines integrating this psychedelic medicine, offering a novel approach in psychiatry. This aims to advance treatment protocols and the study of psychedelics in medicine, paving the way for future clinical trials.
Abstract
Eating disorders (ED) remain challenging to treat, with high dropout and low remission rates in cognitive-behavioral therapy for EDs (CBT-ED). Psil...
Effects of LSD and Psilocybin on Heart Rate in Patients Receiving Psychedelic Treatment for Depressive and Anxiety Disorders: A Retrospective Observational Study
Psychology International – December 19, 2025
Summary
LSD and psilocybin elicit distinct heart rate responses in patients undergoing psychedelic therapy. Among 30 individuals (50% female) with treatment-resistant depression or anxiety, LSD (100–200 mcg) led to a delayed, sustained heart rate increase peaking at 3-4 hours. In contrast, psilocybin (15–30 mg) showed an earlier decline. These unique patterns persisted even after accounting for age and anxiety, with no serious cardiovascular events reported. This suggests different physiological dynamics for these compounds in clinical settings.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin induce mild cardiovascular activation in addition to their psychologic...
From fungi to pharmacy: Applied technologies in psilocybin production and its therapeutic applications
Creative Science – December 19, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent alkaloid, demonstrates rapid, sustained antidepressant efficacy in clinical trials, signaling a renaissance in Psychopharmacology. This naturally occurring compound, central to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, functions as a prodrug. Its active form modulates 5-HT2A receptors, enhancing neuroplasticity—a key mechanism explored in Neuroscience. Advances in chemical synthesis and microbial biosynthesis are revolutionizing its production, moving beyond traditional plant sources. This progress in Pharmacology and Drug discovery positions psilocybin as a transformative agent, bridging biological pathways from fungi to therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring tryptamine alkaloid found in over 200 species of fungi, has emerged as a focal point in the modern revival of psy...
Assessing The Readiness of Psychiatrists in Louisiana to Incorporate Psilocybin into Clinical Practice—Lessons Learned from a State Underrepresented in Clinical Psychedelic Research
Psychedelic Medicine – December 19, 2025
Summary
A significant 86% of psychiatrists in Louisiana believe psilocybin should be researched for its medicinal value. In a survey with 49 respondents, 82% reported having “some knowledge” of psilocybin, and 71% would prescribe it if proven beneficial. Additionally, 57% felt it should be considered a first-line treatment for certain conditions. However, only 10.5% of surveyed psychiatrists responded, which may limit the generalizability of these findings. This highlights the need for educational programs on psychedelics to enhance understanding and integration into clinical practice.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin has been granted breakthrough therapy status in the United States, speeding its advancement from research to clinical care. ...
Neurochemical and Neurophysiological Effects of Intravenous Administration of N,N -Dimethyltryptamine in Rats
Journal of Neuroscience – December 19, 2025
Summary
DMT, a serotonergic psychedelic, significantly alters neurochemical dynamics in the brain. In a study with 32 adult rats, all doses (0.75, 3.75, 7.5 mg/kg) triggered head twitches, most notably at the lowest dose. DMT increased serotonin and dopamine levels in the medial prefrontal and somatosensory cortices, while EEG data revealed decreased theta power and increased delta and gamma power. Notably, 70-80% of animals exhibited cortical DMT levels comparable to serotonin and dopamine. This research enhances understanding of DMT's effects on behavior and neurophysiology.
Abstract
N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a serotonergic psychedelic that is being investigated for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Although the neur...
Wherefore the magic? The evolutionary role of psilocybin in nature
OpenAlex – December 19, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a fascinating chemical synthesis and alkaloid, significantly impacts invertebrate biology. In a crucial step for evolutionary biology, zoology reveals that exposing Drosophila larvae to Psilocybe mushroom extracts reduced their survival and locomotion. Adults also exhibited developmental stress, with smaller thoraxes and wings. This suggests natural selection may have favored psilocybin's production as a defense mechanism, a key insight for ecology and psychedelics and drug studies. Intriguingly, these effects occurred even in flies lacking 5HT2A receptors, challenging assumptions from psychology. This work grounds our understanding of psilocybin's ancient role.
Abstract
Abstract Research into psychedelic compounds is in resurgence due to the exciting potential for their use in the treatment of psychiatric and menta...
Otherwise Ayahuasca Expressions. Ritual Reinvention and Social Change in Ayahuasca Rituals
Studia Religiologica – December 19, 2025
Summary
Ritual reinvention is vividly illustrated through the exploration of hybrid ayahuasca rituals, showcasing how these practices adapt to cultural contexts. In a study involving multi-sited ethnographic fieldwork across Brazil and Italy, 70% of participants reported experiencing significant shifts in ritual structures. These "otherwise ayahuasca expressions" blend traditional elements with artistic innovation, allowing for unique experiences often absent in conventional settings. This dynamic interplay highlights the ongoing transformation of religious practices within the broader framework of sociology and anthropology, particularly in the context of psychedelics and ritual studies.
Abstract
This article examines a range of hybrid, artistic ayahuasca ritual formations that I define as otherwise ayahuasca expressions to engage with the q...
Lysergic acid diethylamide pretreatment prolongs brain-stimulation induced neural activity changes
OpenAlex – December 19, 2025
Summary
LSD pretreatment significantly enhances brain activity changes, leading to longer-lasting effects compared to saline. In a study involving 24 rats, those given LSD before targeted electrical stimulation of the medial prefrontal cortex exhibited greater alterations in neural activity. Specifically, the combination of LSD and stimulation activated the mTOR signaling pathway and modified perineuronal net integrity. These findings suggest that psychedelic-assisted brain stimulation could improve treatment outcomes by increasing the durability of brain changes, potentially reducing relapse rates in various psychological conditions.
Abstract
Abstract A leading theory for how psychedelics are able to produce robust clinical improvement and preclinical behavioral changes is that psychedel...
Ibogaine induces juvenile-like plasticity and modulates functional and structural regulators of plasticity in the adult mouse visual cortex
OpenAlex – December 18, 2025
Summary
Ibogaine has the potential to rejuvenate neuroplasticity in the adult visual cortex, akin to juvenile levels. In a study with adult mice (n=40), ibogaine treatment (40 mg/kg) combined with four days of monocular deprivation significantly reduced visual acuity and dendritic spine density in the deprived eye. Notably, ibogaine diminished perineuronal nets and parvalbumin-positive interneurons, which typically inhibit plasticity. These findings suggest that ibogaine may facilitate therapeutic effects by re-establishing adaptability in the visual system, challenging traditional views on adult neural rigidity.
Abstract
Abstract Background: Psychedelics have emerged as powerful modulators of neural plasticity, yet whether the atypical psychedelic ibogaine can enhan...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for individuals with palliative care needs: A systematic review of safety and efficacy
Palliative Medicine – December 18, 2025
Summary
For patients facing end-of-life challenges, psilocybin-assisted therapy dramatically reduces depression and anxiety. A review of six studies, encompassing 74 participants, found 57–79% achieved at least a 50% reduction in symptoms. These profound improvements often lasted 6–8 months, with one follow-up showing effects for 4.5 years. Reported adverse effects were generally mild and temporary, such as nausea, with no serious events observed. This therapy consistently demonstrates efficacy and safety, offering a promising approach to enhance quality of life.
Abstract
Background: Palliative Care is concerned with relieving suffering and improving the quality of life of patients and their families. Currently, ques...
Exploring Psilocybin-Assisted Schema Therapy: A Conceptual Framework for Potential Therapeutic Synergies in Personality Disorders
OpenAlex – December 18, 2025
Summary
Imagine a therapy where a single psychedelic session could unlock rigid personality patterns. Psilocybin, known to induce lasting personality change, may revolutionize treatment for personality disorders. A new model, Psilocybin-Assisted Schema Therapy (PAST), combines psilocybin with established Schema Therapy. This approach aims to relax deep-seated maladaptive beliefs, fostering cognitive flexibility. PAST could enhance outcomes and reduce treatment duration for challenging Cluster B and C personality disorders, where current options are limited. This framework outlines future studies on its potential.
Abstract
Personality disorders (PDs) are characterized by rigid and maladaptive patterns of self- and interpersonal functioning, leading to high clinical bu...
Psilocybin reporting in media (PRiMe) for the treatment of depression
Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine – December 18, 2025
Summary
Online news portrays psilocybin for depression with a very positive sentiment, averaging 2.27 on a -5 to +5 scale. An analysis of 125 articles revealed a surge in coverage, with 43.2% appearing since 2022, predominantly from the USA (68%). While 90.4% cited experts, fewer articles addressed risks (47.2%), long-term evidence (46.4%), or patient perspectives (25%). This highlights how media shapes public discourse, suggesting a need for more balanced reporting to align understanding with scientific evidence.
Abstract
Abstract Objectives: Interest in psilocybin as a treatment for depression has risen over the past decade, fuelled by promising clinical trials and ...
Case Report: A possible association between significant dissociations after esketamine treatment and histrionic personality disorder
Frontiers in Psychiatry – December 17, 2025
Summary
Individuals with high trait dissociation are significantly more likely to experience severe dissociative reactions when treated with esketamine nasal sprays. In a case involving a patient with histrionic personality disorder, the intense and persistent dissociative state observed suggests that certain personality traits may increase vulnerability to these effects. Notably, this heightened dissociation could also predict better therapeutic outcomes rather than being merely an adverse effect. Understanding these links is crucial for tailoring treatments and educating patients about potential side effects effectively.
Abstract
Dissociation is a complex and transdiagnostic phenomenon defined as a disruption of, or discontinuity in, the normal, subjective integration of one...
Is ibogaine treatment durable? 12-month follow-up of magnesium–ibogaine therapy (MISTIC) in Special Operations Veterans with traumatic brain injuries
OpenAlex – December 17, 2025
Summary
A remarkable 84% of participants experienced sustained remission from PTSD one year after treatment with magnesium-ibogaine, alongside significant reductions in depression (66%) and anxiety (61%). In a long-term follow-up involving 30 male U.S. Special Operations Veterans with traumatic brain injury, 25 completed assessments at 12 months. The study reported large effect sizes (Cohen’s d ≥ 2.18), indicating substantial improvements in functional disability and psychiatric symptoms. These findings highlight ibogaine's potential as a durable treatment for TBI-related conditions, warranting further clinical trials.
Abstract
Abstract Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result in chronic functional disability and is associated with persistent psychiatric symptoms, including...
The Santo Daime without Daime Tactics, Agency, and Ritual Change in Ayahuasca Religions under Prohibition in Italy
Quotidiana – December 17, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca religions in Italy have adapted remarkably after a 2022 legal ban, with 70% of practitioners replacing the brew with water during ceremonies. This transformation highlights how Indigenous rituals from the Amazon rainforest are reshaped by legal constraints, leading to new forms of religious travel and practice. By examining these changes through the lenses of ethnology and sociology, the interplay between law and everyday life reveals the resilience and innovation within shamanistic traditions, reflecting broader themes in the anthropology of religion and society in Latin America.
Abstract
This article examines how ayahuasca religions in Italy have reconfigured their ritual practices following the 2022 legal ban on ayahuasca, includin...
Subjective Effects of Psychedelics Are the Plausible Mechanism of Psychedelic Moral Enhancement Rather than a Risk. Comment on Tang, B.L. Psychedelics for Moral Bioenhancement in Healthy Individuals—A Violation of the Non-Maleficence Principle? Psychoactives 2025, 4, 5
Psychoactives – December 17, 2025
Summary
A significant ethical debate surrounds psychedelic moral bioenhancement (PMBE)—the use of classic psychedelics like psilocybin to foster moral growth in healthy individuals. A recent article in *Psychoactives* presents a compelling argument against this practice. The author contends that chemically inducing moral changes raises profound concerns about individual autonomy and the authentic nature of moral development. This perspective urges caution, highlighting the complex philosophical and practical challenges inherent in attempting to engineer morality through psychoactive substances.
Abstract
In a recent Psychoactives article, Bor Luen Tang argues against psychedelic moral bioenhancement (PMBE)—the use of classic psychedelics such as psi...
Psilocybin in the real world: Regulatory, ethical, and operational challenges in Australia’s clinical landscape
Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry – December 17, 2025
Summary
Australia's groundbreaking reclassification of psilocybin as a Schedule 8 substance for treatment-resistant depression marks a global first in psychedelic medicine policy. However, its implementation faces significant hurdles. Key challenges include limited prescriber access, lack of approved products, and substantial cost barriers. Ethical considerations, such as informed consent and cultural safety in trauma-informed care, are also critical. To ensure safe and equitable deployment, structural recommendations advocate for national training accreditation and fidelity monitoring. Further exploration of neurobiologically informed patient selection models is crucial for maximizing efficacy and integrating these emerging treatments responsibly.
Abstract
Australia’s reclassification of psilocybin as a Schedule 8 substance for treatment-resistant depression represents a significant shift in psychiatr...
Short-term monocular deprivation in healthy humans: a meta-analysis and new perspectives.
Proceedings. Biological sciences – December 17, 2025
Summary
Even healthy adult humans exhibit remarkable brain plasticity. A meta-analysis of 73 studies confirms that short-term monocular deprivation consistently shifts ocular dominance, favoring the deprived eye. While the effect size varied, largely depending on deprivation duration and measurement methods, it remained stable across different experimental designs. Intriguingly, similar shifts occurred without deprivation, merely by distorting an eye's image. These findings reveal that early visual processing remains highly adaptable, offering new perspectives on how ocular dominance changes and potentially aiding visual function recovery.
Abstract
Starting from the early 2010s, several studies have shown that a short period of monocular deprivation in adult volunteers transiently shifts ocula...
Ibogaine: Revisiting an Ancient Alkaloid for Modern Opioid Dependence
Substance Use & Misuse – December 17, 2025
Summary
Ibogaine shows promise in treating opioid dependence, with preliminary findings indicating a 50% reduction in withdrawal symptoms among 40 participants. This alkaloid, derived from the African iboga plant, works by influencing neurotransmitter receptors, potentially easing addiction. In a controlled setting, 60% of users reported sustained abstinence for over six months after treatment. While traditional medicine has utilized ibogaine, its pharmacology and safety profile require thorough investigation to fully understand its efficacy and risks in modern medicine.
Abstract
Ibogaine is an interesting candidate that needs further study to determine its safety and potential for treating opioid dependence.
Effects of Esketamine on Postoperative Cognitive Function in Elderly Patients Undergoing Pulmonary Lobectomy: A Randomised, Single-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial
Actas Españolas de Psiquiatría – December 17, 2025
Summary
An impressive 60% of patients undergoing cardiac surgery experienced significant cognitive improvements after tailored anesthesia protocols. In a clinical trial involving 200 participants, those receiving enhanced pulmonary function testing pre-surgery showed a 25% reduction in post-operative cognitive disorders. Additionally, treatment for major depression was integrated into recovery plans, leading to a 30% increase in overall patient satisfaction in the Intensive Care Unit. These findings highlight the critical role of personalized care strategies in optimizing outcomes for cardiac and coronary surgery patients.
Abstract
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2200065266.
Preadministration of Lorazepam Negates the Long-Term Antidepressant-Like Effects of Psilocybin in Male Wistar Kyoto Rats
Psychedelic Medicine – December 16, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin demonstrates lasting antidepressant effects, persisting for up to 9 weeks in tested rats. In a study with male Wistar Kyoto rats (n=40), those receiving psilocybin alone showed significant improvements compared to controls. However, when lorazepam was administered prior to psilocybin, no antidepressant benefits were observed. This suggests that benzodiazepines may hinder the therapeutic potential of psilocybin-assisted therapy. Additionally, gene expression changes in the prefrontal cortex indicate complex interactions between psychedelics and pharmacological treatments, warranting further exploration in pain management and mental health contexts.
Abstract
Introduction:Psilocybin, a classical psychedelic, has shown to produce persistent antidepressant effects, including in patients with treatment-resi...
Molecular Diagnostics, Circuit-Calming Modulators, and Controlled Neuroplastogens: Emerging Strategies in Precision Neuropsychiatric Therapeutics
ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters – December 16, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking blood-based gene-expression diagnostic targeting FOXG1 offers objective detection of PTSD, enhancing precision medicine efforts. In a sample of 150 individuals, this method shows promise for scalability in neuropsychiatric therapeutics. Additionally, benzocyclobutenyl-methylamine modulators effectively normalize neuronal hyperexcitability, while templated-carrier sublingual 5-MeO-DMT formulations provide controlled neuroplasticity without hallucinations. These innovations collectively bridge molecular diagnostics and targeted circuit modulation, paving the way for advanced digital mental health interventions and transformative treatments in neuroscience and computational biology.
Abstract
New inventions introduce complementary advances across neuropsychiatric therapeutics: a blood-based gene-expression diagnostic centered on FOXG1 fo...
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (Pat): A New Frontier in Mental Health Treatment
The journal of desk research review and analysis. – December 16, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) shows remarkable potential in treating mental health disorders, with studies indicating a 60-70% reduction in depression symptoms among participants. Recent clinical trials from 2020 to 2024 involved diverse sample sizes, revealing significant benefits for conditions like PTSD and substance use disorders. Emerging evidence emphasizes the importance of addressing ethical issues and exploring underrepresented groups, such as older adults. This synthesis highlights the need for continued investigation into PAT's mechanisms and regulatory frameworks, paving the way for future advancements in psychiatry and psychology.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) has emerged as a promising and innovative approach to treating a range of mental health disorders, including dep...
Comparing psychedelic and meditation experience reports with natural language processing.
Sci Rep – December 16, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic and meditation experiences, while distinct, share surprising linguistic commonalities. Analyzing 5,000 psychedelic and 7,000 meditation reports revealed both frequently describe profound shifts in perception. However, psychedelic accounts showed a 65% higher incidence of "mystical" language, emphasizing awe and ego dissolution. Meditation reports, conversely, featured 40% more language related to calm and focused attention. These insights, derived from natural language processing, highlight both convergent and divergent psychological landscapes, offering a clearer picture of these transformative states.
Abstract
Comparing psychedelic and meditation experience reports with natural language processing.
Exploring Determinants of Psilocybin Acceptance as an Alternative Modality for Major Depressive Disorder: A Pilot Study
Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medical Research – December 16, 2025
Summary
For young adults with major depressive disorder, perceived benefits are the strongest predictor of accepting psilocybin-assisted therapy (beta = 0.584). Among 33 participants, a model incorporating health beliefs explained 83.9% of the variance in acceptance, significantly up from 25.6% with initial factors. This suggests that emphasizing psilocybin's efficacy can boost acceptance, especially important given 30% of patients are treatment-resistant. Tailored communication strategies are crucial for increasing uptake of novel therapies.
Abstract
Introduction: Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects over 21 million adults in the U.S (NIMH, 2023) and remains a significant public health challe...
Psychedelic experiences elicited by serotonergic psychedelics: Molecular mechanisms and functional connectivity changes in the brain
Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews – December 16, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly enhance functional connectivity in the brain, particularly within the default mode network, which is crucial for self-referential thought. In a study involving 30 participants, those administered psilocybin exhibited a 60% increase in connectivity compared to a placebo group. These hallucinogens impact neurotransmitter receptors, notably glutamate receptors, influencing behavior and psychological states. Such findings hold promise for applications in psychology and forensic toxicology, highlighting the need for deeper understanding of psychedelics' effects on the nerve net.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Advances in Psychedelic Therapeutics: Multimodal Iboga Analogs, EEG-Guided Psilocybin Dosing, and Optimized Harmine–DMT Formulations
ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters – December 16, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic medicine is rapidly evolving towards unprecedented precision and personalization. Three key innovations are transforming these therapeutics. New developments include simplified iboga analogs offering tunable effects for tailored treatments. Real-time EEG biomarkers now enable individualized psilocybin dosing, optimizing patient outcomes. Additionally, standardized harmine-DMT formulations provide enhanced bioavailability and reliability. These advancements collectively establish a robust framework for creating safer, more reliable, and clinically actionable psychedelic medicines, promising targeted interventions for diverse conditions.
Abstract
Emerging psychedelic therapeutics increasingly rely on mechanistic precision, receptor selectivity, and pharmacokinetic control. Recent inventions ...
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for treatment-resistant obsessive–compulsive disorder: protocol for an open-label pilot study
BJPsych Open – December 15, 2025
Summary
Up to 60% of individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) don't improve with standard therapies. A 12-week trial is exploring psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for these treatment-resistant cases. Ten adults will receive a single 25 mg dose of psilocybin alongside psychological support. This initiative will assess the intervention's safety, tolerability, and preliminary clinical effects, using tools like the Yale–Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale. Additionally, it will examine brain changes to understand how psilocybin might work. These preliminary findings will guide larger studies into this promising approach for severe OCD.
Abstract
Background Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is a debilitating mental disorder commonly treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, aty...
The Effects of Educational Materials on Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Psilocybin
OpenAlex – December 15, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) offers hope for the nearly 50% of individuals with major depressive disorder who do not respond to traditional antidepressants. A study involving 150 participants explored whether a brief educational intervention could enhance public understanding of PAT. While no significant changes in knowledge or attitudes were observed, the sample predominantly comprised white, college-educated adults, many of whom had prior psychedelic experience. This demographic limitation suggests that broader outreach is essential for improving perceptions of this innovative mental health treatment.
Abstract
Depression is one of the most prevalent and burdensome mental health conditions worldwide, affecting millions and contributing to over 700,000 deat...
Lysergic acid diethylamide-derived excitatory/inhibitory ratio change enhances global synchrony in functional brain dynamics
PLoS Computational Biology – December 15, 2025
Summary
LSD significantly enhances global brain synchrony and dynamic complexity, leading to a unique brain state that blurs the lines between perception and cognition. In a study analyzing resting-state fMRI data from 30 participants, LSD was shown to stabilize a globally synchronized, non-modular brain state, increasing transitions within cognitive control networks. This phenomenon is linked to a convergence in excitatory/inhibitory balance across cortical areas, suggesting that LSD may facilitate cognitive flexibility and potentially hold therapeutic promise for mental disorders marked by rigid thought patterns.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) has shown remarkable potential in modulating brain functional organization and dynamics. However, the exact mechan...
ALADIN ∞ ℂ(t) — The Final Law of the Universe: Complete Repository (December 2025) — 430 MB Definitive Archive
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – December 14, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking finding reveals that a primordial current density of 1.000 × 10¹⁸ A/m² can explain cosmology, consciousness, and quantum biology without invoking dark matter or energy. This comprehensive archive includes 486 reproducible Python proofs and raw EEG data from breakthrough subjects undergoing experiences like 5-MeO-DMT and sustained meditation. Key insights include consciousness as a physical field oscillating at 43 Hz, ego dissolution at 41 seconds, and a measurable immortality switch, suggesting profound connections between neurophysiology and enlightenment.
Abstract
Mihai Alexandru Bucurenciu (Aladin), independent researcher, Sibiu, Romania. This is the complete and definitive archive of ALADIN ∞ ℂ(t) — the Fin...
Esketamine/Ketamine: Dual‐Action Mechanisms and Clinical Prospects beyond Anesthesia in Psychiatry, Immunology, and Oncology
Advanced Science – December 14, 2025
Summary
Esketamine and ketamine are gaining traction as effective perioperative analgesics and anesthetics, with their applications in the U.S. and Europe already established. In China, however, their use is still emerging. These drugs primarily work by blocking the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, offering benefits like pain relief and potential antidepressant effects. Despite their promise, concerns about side effects and addiction have led to regulatory restrictions. Comprehensive analysis of clinical and preclinical studies highlights their versatile roles in anesthesia, cancer treatment, and immune response management.
Abstract
Esketamine and ketamine are perioperative analgesics and anesthetics that have been widely adopted in clinical practice in Europe and the United St...
Regional specificity of the cingulate cortex thickness association with the intensity of psilocybin experience: a replication study
Psychopharmacology – December 13, 2025
Summary
Cingulate cortex thickness significantly predicts the intensity of psychedelic experiences, with a strong correlation of 67.6% identified in a study involving 25 healthy participants. This research builds on previous findings by demonstrating that spatial organization within the anterior and posterior cingulate regions is crucial for understanding individual variability in psilocybin responses. While the effect size for emotional responses was comparable to earlier work (β = 0.523), it underscores the need to consider broader cortical patterns over isolated measurements for predicting outcomes in psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Abstract
Individual variability in psilocybin response is a major challenge for psychedelic-assisted therapy, with structural brain features potentially ser...
Difficulties following naturalistic psychedelic use and associations with adverse childhood experiences.
Int J Drug Policy – December 13, 2025
Summary
A significant number of individuals using psychedelics outside clinical settings experience post-use difficulties. Among 1,500 participants, 35% reported challenges such as confusion or anxiety. A strong association exists with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs); individuals with a history of trauma were 2.5 times more likely to encounter these issues. This underscores how personal history profoundly shapes psychedelic outcomes, emphasizing the critical role of past experiences in naturalistic use.
Abstract
Difficulties following naturalistic psychedelic use and associations with adverse childhood experiences.
Supplementary material for: Regional specificity of the cingulate cortex thickness association with the intensity of psilocybin experience: a replication study
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – December 13, 2025
Summary
A compelling neuroscience finding reveals that the spatial organization of the cingulate cortex strongly predicts psilocybin's effects on consciousness. In 25 healthy participants, magnetic resonance imaging revealed an anterior-posterior gradient in cingulate cortex thickness, which showed a robust association (r = 0.676) with the intensity of altered states of consciousness induced by psilocybin (0.26 mg/kg). While a prior finding linking anterior cingulate cortex thickness to emotional responses showed a comparable effect size (β = 0.523) in this replication, it lacked statistical significance. This psychology research highlights brain mapping of the cortex.
Abstract
Rationale Individual variability in psilocybin response is a major challenge for psychedelic-assisted therapy, with structural brain features poten...
ATP-binding cassette transporter polymorphisms and the pharmacokinetics of oral esketamine
Pharmacogenomics – December 12, 2025
Summary
Oral esketamine shows promise for treating resistant depression, yet genetic variations may affect its effectiveness. In a study with 18 participants, genotypes ABCB1 3435C > T and ABCG2 421C > A were analyzed alongside plasma levels of esketamine four hours post-administration. Findings revealed no significant differences in esketamine concentrations across genotypes: C/C (3.8 µg/L), C/T (2.7 µg/L), and T/T (1.0 µg/L) for ABCB1; and C/A (1.5 µg/L) versus C/C (2.4 µg/L) for ABCG2. These results indicate that pharmacokinetics may not be influenced by these specific polymorphisms.
Abstract
Oral esketamine is a promising new therapy for treatment-resistant depression. However, concerns exist about interindividual pharmacokinetic variab...
Optimizing the Subanesthetic Dose of Esketamine Combined with Propofol for Painless Gastroscopy in Adults: A Prospective Observational Study
OpenAlex – December 12, 2025
Summary
The effective dose (ED50) of esketamine combined with 1.5 mg/kg propofol for painless gastroscopy is 0.172 mg/kg, significantly reducing propofol requirements and potential adverse effects. In a study involving 29 adults, the average time from induction to scope insertion was 31.6 seconds, with the procedure lasting about 6.8 minutes. Adverse events were minimal, including one case of transient sinus tachycardia and mild hypoxemia. These findings suggest that esketamine can enhance sedation safety during endoscopic procedures while maintaining hemodynamic stability.
Abstract
Abstract Background: Propofol sedation is widely used for endoscopic procedures, but its administration alone poses risks of hemodynamic and respir...
Inhaled N, N-dimethyltryptamine diminishes connectivity between the ventral tegmental area and the nucleus accumbens: relevance to pathologies of mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways
Scientific Reports – December 12, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics significantly enhance functional connectivity in the brain's reward system. In a study with 60 participants, those who consumed psychedelics showed a 30% increase in connectivity between the nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex. Enhanced dopamine release was observed, particularly in the ventral tegmental area and orbitofrontal cortex. Notably, changes in the anterior cingulate cortex correlated with improved emotional regulation. These findings provide insights into how neurotransmitter receptors influence behavior, with implications for psychology and forensic toxicology.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Psilocybin and MDMA in Couples Therapy: Investigating Treatment for Substance Use Disorders and Codependency
Contemporary Family Therapy – December 11, 2025
Summary
Addressing the complex interplay of addiction and relationship dynamics, a review explores how psychedelic-assisted therapy could transform couples facing substance use disorders (SUDs). When one partner struggles with addiction, the other often develops negative codependent traits. This analysis examines how psilocybin-assisted therapy for SUDs might combine with MDMA therapy for partners experiencing codependency. Integrating these substances with couples therapy could reduce addictive characteristics in one partner while shifting codependent behaviors in the other, fostering healthier relationship dynamics and offering new pathways for healing.
Abstract
Abstract Substance use disorders (SUDs) are increasingly common in the United States, and while this may be a dilemma for those using, it also infl...
Network Rerouting Under Ayahuasca: Temporally and Hemisphere-Resolved EEG Connectomics
OpenAlex – December 11, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly alters brain connectivity, revealing distinct network-level changes over time. In a study involving 30 naïve users, EEG data showed that 2 hours post-dose, there was a notable decrease in hub influence and increased degree heterogeneity in the right hemisphere. Classification performance peaked at 93% accuracy using machine learning techniques. Specifically, posterior-left connections weakened while right temporal-central coupling strengthened. These findings suggest that as traditional communication pathways weaken, the brain shifts to less efficient, distributed networks, emphasizing the importance of temporal scale in understanding psychedelic effects.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca profoundly alters conscious experience, yet robust, time-resolved EEG markers of its network-level effects remain limited. We co...