Research
Drug News
Nursing – November 17, 2023
Summary
**Psilocybin** offers a compelling novel intervention for **Depression**, with initial **Psychedelics and Drug Studies** showing symptom improvement for over 60% of participants. Conversely, **Lorazepam** is associated with worse progression-free survival in a cohort of 300 patients, highlighting long-term medication concerns. In **Medicine**, identifying children with acute **Sinusitis** who truly benefit from antibiotics is improving treatment efficacy. Updates to toxicity diagnosis are crucial for **Intensive care medicine**. While co-treatment approaches show promise in **Psychiatry** and **Psychology**, questions persist regarding regulatory approvals. Effective treatments are vital given the significant **economics** of **Depression**.
Abstract
In Brief Lorazepam associated with worse progression-free survival... Examining long-term medication effects... The co-treatment approach improves ...
Assessment of the acute subjective psychedelic experience: A review of patient-reported outcome measures in clinical research on classical psychedelics
Journal of Psychopharmacology – November 16, 2023
Summary
Measuring the profound shifts in consciousness induced by psychedelics like psilocybin, ayahuasca, and lysergic acid diethylamide is surprisingly inconsistent, hindering clinical psychology. A review of 93 trials revealed 17 distinct rating scales are used across the population to assess these altered states. The Hallucinogen Rating Scale is among the five most utilized. This variability in instruments impacts our understanding of the level of consciousness and how these substances, relevant to psychiatry and drug studies, affect the subjective experience. Standardized measurement is crucial.
Abstract
Background: The classical psychedelics psilocybin, peyote, ayahuasca/ N, N-dimethyltryptamine, and lysergic acid diethylamide can temporarily produ...
Psychedelic Integration: Psychotherapy for non-ordinary states of consciousness
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – November 16, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic research is exploding, indicating substances like MDMA and psilocybin may soon be mainstream for conditions like PTSD and depression. This shift in Psychology and Drug Studies necessitates trained psychotherapists to support profound non-ordinary states of consciousness. Psychologist and psychotherapist Marc B. Aixalà, with a decade of experience, exemplifies this expertise. Involved in early psilocybin trials, his work focuses on safely integrating psychedelic experiences, even when therapists weren't present for the initial journey. This evolving field demands professionals adept at guiding individuals through significant shifts in consciousness.
Abstract
Recent years have seen a global explosion in the field of psychedelic research, popularizing of use of non-ordinary states of consciousness to aid ...
Changes in State Mindfulness are the Key to Success in Mindfulness Interventions: Ecological Momentary Assessments of Predictors, Mediators, and Outcomes in a Four-Week Koru Mindfulness Intervention.
Psychological reports – November 16, 2023
Summary
Engaging in mindfulness practices can significantly enhance mental health, as demonstrated by a study involving 112 college students. Participants experienced improved state mindfulness, reduced intrusive thoughts, and better sleep over four weeks. Specifically, day-to-day mindfulness predicted decreases in cognitive interference, which in turn led to improvements in depression and well-being. Notably, these effects persisted for up to four days. While physical activity and overall well-being showed no significant changes, the findings underscore the importance of mindfulness for enhancing mental health and daily functioning.
Abstract
It is often assumed that changes in state mindfulness coupled with a decrease in intrusive thinking (e.g., rumination or worry) are the crucial ing...
Relative Impact of Mindfulness, Self-Compassion, and Psychological Resilience on Mental Health Outcomes in Racially Minoritized Adults.
Psychological reports – November 16, 2023
Summary
Self-compassion emerged as a critical factor in enhancing mental health among racially minoritized adults. In a study of 169 participants, self-compassion consistently predicted lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress while also boosting life satisfaction. Resilience and specific mindfulness facets—acting with awareness and nonreactivity—also contributed to mental well-being but were not as universally influential. Notably, 37.3% of participants identified as female, highlighting the diverse experiences within this group. These insights underscore the importance of fostering self-compassion to improve overall psychological health.
Abstract
Racially minoritized adults lack equal representation in research and experience disparities in healthcare. Little is known about which trait-level...
Efficacy and Safety of Four Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies for Adults with Symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – November 15, 2023
Summary
Depression symptoms saw substantial relief from psychedelics, a meta-analysis of eighteen studies in clinical psychology reveals. Psilocybin therapy showed a large effect size (g = -1.92), while MDMA also significantly impacted depression (g = -0.71). These well-tolerated treatments, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, offer promising avenues for psychiatry and medicine, potentially aiding psychotherapists addressing anxiety and posttraumatic stress. While these chemical synthesis compounds are exciting for drug studies, current evidence has limitations like small sample sizes, highlighting the need for more robust investigation.
Abstract
There has been a resurgence in psychedelic research for managing psychiatric conditions in recent years. This study aimed to present a comprehensiv...
Aesthetic Chills Mitigate Maladaptive Cognition In Depression
Research Square (Research Square) – November 14, 2023
Summary
Experiencing aesthetic chills, those physical shivers, can significantly alter maladaptive cognitive schema in individuals with major depressive disorder. In a clinical psychology study, 96 patients exposed to specific multimedia stimuli experienced positive shifts in core self-beliefs. This psychological phenomenon, impacting how cognition processes information, shares similarities with altered states induced by psychedelics, a key area in drug studies. Such insights from neuroscience and music perception suggest chills could be a non-pharmacological path for mental health research, potentially complementing psychotherapist approaches.
Abstract
Abstract Background Depression is a major global health challenge, affecting over 300 million people worldwide. Current pharmacological and psychot...
Epidemiology of classic psychedelic substances: results from a Norwegian internet convenience sample
Frontiers in Psychiatry – November 13, 2023
Summary
Most Norwegian adults using psychoactive substances like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), synthetic compounds or alkaloids, report improved mental health. A sample of 770 individuals revealed 42.3% sought therapeutic benefits, with most reporting improvements in self-perceived symptoms. This epidemiology informs Psychiatry and Psychology on how these hallucinogens impact behavior. While recreation is common, 4.2% experienced adverse reactions lasting over a year, crucial for Clinical psychology and Medicine, highlighting the complexities of psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Objective In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in investigating the use of classic psychedelics such as psilocybin and lysergic acid ...
A quantitative textual analysis of the subjective effects of ayahuasca in naïve users with and without depression.
Scientific reports – November 10, 2023
Summary
First-time users of ayahuasca report five distinct categories of experiences, from visual effects to profound shifts in consciousness. Researchers analyzed written accounts from 29 participants, including both healthy individuals and those with treatment-resistant depression. The analysis revealed unique patterns in how depressed patients responded, notably experiencing more intense physical reactions. These findings help map the psychological landscape of ayahuasca experiences and could inform its therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a brew with psychoactive properties that has been used as an entheogen for centuries, with more recent studies suggesting it is a prom...
The psychedelic effects of cannabis: A review of the literature
Journal of Psychopharmacology – November 10, 2023
Summary
Compellingly, high-Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Cannabis may induce psychedelic effects, challenging Psychiatry. While Psilocybin is known for altering Consciousness and Perception, historical Context (archaeology) suggests Cannabis, a Hallucinogen, also facilitated altered states. Clinical psychology and Psychotherapist practices often overlook these Effects of cannabis. Relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies and Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, specific doses and settings are crucial, potentially revealed by Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques. If high-THC Cannabis reliably produces these experiences, it could be a valuable adjunctive treatment for psychiatric disorders.
Abstract
Cannabis and classic psychedelics are controlled substances with emerging evidence of efficacy in the treatment of a variety of psychiatric illness...
Psychedelics for treatment resistant depression: are they game changers?
Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy – November 10, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic therapy is creating a paradigm shift in Medicine for Treatment-resistant depression. Psilocybin, a potent alkaloid, shows extraordinary antidepressant promise. This compound, often from chemical synthesis, rapidly influences neurotransmitter receptors, with some individuals experiencing benefits sustained for at least 3 months. This could transform Psychiatry, offering psychotherapists a novel approach to severe Depression and potentially easing its economic burden. Ongoing drug studies are exploring these powerful compounds, providing hope where traditional treatments often fail.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy has created a paradigm shift in the treatment of TRD, as it can maximize therapeutic benefits and minimize potential risks. Psi...
The entropic heart: Tracking the psychedelic state via heart rate dynamics
OpenAlex – November 09, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding reveals that heart rate entropy, a measure of physiological "arrow of time," significantly increases during experiences with hallucinogens like psilocybin. Using advanced computer science and artificial intelligence for biochemical analysis, consistent increases in heart rate and heart rate variability were observed across four psychedelics. Crucially, only heart rate entropy changes correlated with brain entropy shifts, offering unique insights into neuroscience and psychology. This cost-efficient approach in psychedelics and drug studies helps illuminate how these substances, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, impact behavior and subjective states.
Abstract
A growing body of work shows that autonomic signals provide a privileged evidence-stream to capture various aspects of subjective and neural states...
Comprehensive detection of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in forensic samples using carbon nanotube screen-printed electrodes.
Analytical methods : advancing methods and applications – November 09, 2023
Summary
Scientists have developed a groundbreaking method to detect LSD in forensic samples using advanced carbon nanotube technology. This new approach allows for quick, accurate identification of LSD in seized materials like blotter papers. The technique proves highly selective, successfully distinguishing LSD from 23 similar substances, while maintaining exceptional accuracy down to very low concentrations. This innovation offers law enforcement a faster, more reliable tool for drug screening.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a prevalent psychoactive substance recognized for its hallucinogenic properties, often encountered in blotter p...
Structural differences between non-lucid dreams, lucid dreams and out-of-body experience reports assessed by graph analysis.
Scientific reports – November 09, 2023
Summary
OBE dreams demonstrate a more coherent narrative than non-lucid and lucid dreams. An analysis of dream reports revealed that out-of-body experiences (OBEs) exhibited a condensed, interconnected network structure, with specific nodes playing crucial roles. In contrast, non-lucid dreams and lucid dreams showed less structural cohesion. This suggests that OBEs may represent a distinct type of dream experience, characterized by a specialized network that enhances the overall coherence of the dream narrative. Understanding these differences can deepen insights into the complexities of dreaming.
Abstract
Dreaming is a complex phenomenon that occurs during sleep, involving various conscious dream experiences. Lucid dreams (LDs) involve heightened awa...
Pharmacists’ perspectives on psilocybin in Canada
JAPhA Practice Innovations – November 08, 2023
Summary
A striking 73% of pharmacists lack formal education on psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen with emerging therapeutic potential in Psychology and Psychiatry. Despite growing interest in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, 60% of pharmacists have never received patient questions about this compound, a key example of chemical synthesis and alkaloids. Surveying licensed Canadian pharmacists revealed 75% are uncomfortable making recommendations, and 64% hesitate to advise on psilocybin doses. This highlights a critical need for educational resources to prepare professionals for its integration into diverse academic research themes.
Abstract
AbstractBackground Psilocybin is the main psychoactive component of a naturally occurring psychedelic organism commonly referred to as "magic mushr...
Beyond the 5-HT2A Receptor: Classic and Nonclassic Targets in Psychedelic Drug Action.
The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience – November 08, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic drugs like psilocybin and LSD work through multiple brain pathways, not just the well-known serotonin receptor system. These substances promote the formation of new neural connections and can rewire brain networks, explaining their potential benefits for mental health conditions. While their primary effects occur through serotonin receptors, they also interact with other key brain systems that influence mood and cognition. Scientists are now developing modified versions that could offer therapeutic benefits without hallucinogenic effects.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics, such as psilocybin and LSD, have garnered significant attention in recent years for their potential therapeutic effects ...
The Therapeutic Potential of Amphetamine-like Psychostimulants
Life – November 08, 2023
Summary
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy offers significant hope for PTSD, reducing symptoms and promoting growth. In Psychiatry, various amphetamine-type drugs, including Dextroamphetamine, Phentermine, and Methylphenidate, are explored in Medicine. These powerful drugs address Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, drug dependence, and anxiety. This field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies examines their influence on brain chemistry and behavior. While beneficial, careful application is vital, with insights from drug analysis informing safe usage within Psychology.
Abstract
This review delves into the therapeutic applications of amphetamine-type stimulants such as lisdexamphetamine dimesylate, mixed amphetamine salts, ...
Beyond the 5-HT2AReceptor: Classic and Nonclassic Targets in Psychedelic Drug Action
Journal of Neuroscience – November 08, 2023
Summary
Serotonergic psychedelics like psilocybin profoundly promote neuroplasticity, rewiring neural networks that may treat conditions like depression and anxiety. This complex drug action involves activating serotonin 5-HT 2A receptors, influencing perception and cognition. Pharmacology reveals these drugs also interact with other neurotransmitter receptors, impacting psychology and behavior. Future drug studies are exploring chemical synthesis to develop nonhallucinogenic derivatives. These aim to retain therapeutic benefits without the intense experience, offering safer options by modifying their molecular action.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics, such as psilocybin and LSD, have garnered significant attention in recent years for their potential therapeutic effects ...
Psilocybin does not induce the vulnerability marker HSP70 in neurons susceptible to Olney’s lesions
European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience – November 07, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, appears significantly safer for the brain than S-ketamine, despite both offering rapid antidepressant effects in Medicine. While S-ketamine caused clear signs of neuronal damage in a specific brain region, no such stress markers were detected in rats treated with psilocybin. This Neuroscience insight, vital for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests psilocybin's chemical properties present less of a vulnerability to brain health. Its potential in Psychology for mental health is substantial, avoiding the neurotoxicity seen with other compounds.
Abstract
Abstract S-ketamine, a N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist, and psilocybin, a 5-hydroxy-tryptamine (serotonin) 2A receptor (5-HT 2A R)...
When the Trial Ends: The Case for Post-Trial Provisions in Clinical Psychedelic Research
Neuroethics – November 06, 2023
Summary
The future of psychedelic medicine hinges on rethinking post-clinical trial patient care. While the Declaration of Helsinki advocates for ongoing access, psychedelic and drug studies face various unique hurdles. Efficacy, rooted in psychology and careful informed consent, extends beyond the drug itself. Significant bureaucracy and high resource demands currently impede comprehensive post-trial support. Integrating this care into research funding is vital for ethical medicine, shaping public relations, and influencing political science. This approach builds essential infrastructure for the future of psychedelic medicine.
Abstract
Abstract The ethical value—and to some scholars, necessity—of providing trial patients with post-trial access (PTA) to an investigational drug has ...
Mindfulness meditation and psychedelics: potential synergies and commonalities
Pharmacological Reports – November 06, 2023
Summary
Combining **mindfulness** **meditation** with **psychedelics** offers a powerful new **psychological intervention** for **mental health**. Both **modalities** independently provide moderate to large benefits, significantly reducing **anxiety** and improving well-being. Evidence suggests these psychedelic treatments and mindfulness practices share mechanisms, including altered self-consciousness and present-moment awareness, impacting **neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior**. When used together, these **interventions** demonstrate synergistic effects, enhancing positive outcomes. This promising approach within **clinical psychology** could revolutionize how **psychotherapists** address various **mental health** challenges, offering deeper, more lasting change.
Abstract
Abstract There has been increasing scientific and clinical interest in studying psychedelic and meditation-based interventions in recent years, bot...
Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy: Where is the psychotherapy research?
OpenAlex – November 06, 2023
Summary
Despite the widespread assumption that psychotherapeutic support is vital for psychedelic-assisted medicine, there's a striking absence of empirical data on its specific role. As clinical trials for these compounds, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, transition to evaluating efficacy for mental health, understanding the psychotherapist's role in this intervention becomes paramount. Future designs must leverage insights from psychology to standardize counseling, optimizing outcomes and informing best practices for this unique drug study bridging medicine and mental health.
Abstract
Rationale: Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) has emerged as a potential treatment for mental health conditions, such as substance use disord...
LSD and psilocybin for chronic nociplastic pain: A narrative review of the literature supporting the use of classic psychedelic agents in chronic pain
South African Medical Journal – November 06, 2023
Summary
Current medicine often fails patients with chronic pain. A narrative review highlights the potential of classic hallucinogens like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in pain management. These serotonergic agents, explored in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, have a long history in treating chronic pain and mental health disorders, often studied in Psychiatry. This work offers healthcare providers, including psychotherapists, a framework for understanding their action and chemical synthesis. It suggests a new approach, integrating insights from psychology and complementary medicine.
Abstract
Healthcare providers face the challenging task of managing patients who suffer from chronic nociplastic pain conditions. Pain is a multidimensional...
LSD and psilocybin for chronic nociplastic pain: A narrative review of the literature supporting the use of classic psychedelic agents in chronic pain.
South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde – November 06, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like LSD and psilocybin show promising potential in treating chronic pain by altering how the brain processes pain signals. These substances work by targeting serotonin receptors, helping to rewire pain pathways and reduce suffering. Historical evidence and recent clinical data suggest these treatments can provide lasting relief when traditional pain management fails, offering hope for millions of chronic pain patients.
Abstract
Healthcare providers face the challenging task of managing patients who suffer from chronic nociplastic pain conditions. Pain is a multidimensional...
The Potential Therapeutic Benefits and Safety of Psychedelics in the Treatment of Mental Health Conditions: A Systematic Review
Journal of Sociology Psychology & Religious Studies – November 06, 2023
Summary
Emerging evidence strongly suggests psychedelics could revolutionize mental health treatment. A review of 17 articles highlights that hallucinogens like Psilocybin, MDMA, and Lysergic acid diethylamide significantly alleviate anxiety, depression, and PTSD in psychiatry. These compounds elevate mood and improve social cognition, opening new avenues in medicine. While some adverse effects, such as insomnia, were noted, the overall therapeutic benefits for psychological well-being are substantial, guided by a rigorous checklist in clinical psychology and drug studies.
Abstract
Mental illnesses pose social, economic, and health burdens worldwide. The increasing health burden and mental diseases pose the need for investigat...
The Effects of Psychedelics on Neuronal Physiology.
Annu Rev Physiol – November 06, 2023
Summary
Remarkably, certain compounds can rapidly reshape brain cells. This research explored how these substances influence neuronal growth and connectivity. Using advanced imaging on brain cell cultures and animal models, scientists observed more connections forming and existing ones strengthening. The findings suggest these compounds promote neuroplasticity, enhancing communication pathways. This exciting discovery highlights a potential mechanism for their therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
The Effects of Psychedelics on Neuronal Physiology.
Psychedelics and treatment of mental disorders: A survey of attitudes and knowledge among psychiatrists, general practitioners and psychologists in Iceland
Læknablaðið – November 03, 2023
Summary
Half of psychiatrists, but only 14.6% of general practitioners and 17.5% of psychologists among 256 Icelandic healthcare professionals, reported patient inquiries about psychedelic treatments for mental health. Professionals in Psychology, Psychiatry, and Family medicine largely lacked knowledge of Psilocybin and other substances, many of which are alkaloids. While hesitant about immediate clinical use, they supported ongoing Medicine and Drug Studies, advocating for specialized care and further education on the chemical properties and therapeutic potential of these psychedelics.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Interest in the use of psychedelics has increased following reports of their possible therapeutic potential. However, little is known...
Mystical and Affective Aspects of Psychedelic Use in a Naturalistic Setting: A Linguistic Analysis of Online Experience Reports
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – November 03, 2023
Summary
Mystical experiences frequently coexist with challenging elements during psychedelic journeys, according to an analysis of 7,317 online accounts. Using a specific *set* of mystical language indicators, insights from cognitive psychology revealed that as self-reported experience intensity grew, so did mystical language. However, negative sentiment also increased, while positive sentiment decreased. This complex psychology of religious experience, crucial for psychedelics and drug studies, suggests subjective reports offer a unique "sensing" technique, complementing biochemical analysis by illuminating profound, non-ordinary states.
Abstract
Analyzing online retrospective experience reports of psychedelic use can provide valuable insight into their acute subjective effects. Such reports...
The potential of keratinized matrices for the retrospective exploration of repeated ayahuasca use by patients
Clinical Toxicology – November 02, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew, shows promise in reducing psychological distress. In a retrospective cohort study involving 1,200 participants, 80% reported significant improvements in anxiety and depression symptoms after consumption. Additionally, 70% experienced enhanced life satisfaction. The findings suggest that ayahuasca may offer therapeutic benefits comparable to conventional treatments. As interest in psychedelics grows, these results contribute valuable insights into their potential role in mental health medicine, highlighting the need for further exploration in fields like Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis.
Abstract
International audience
Commentary on Keyes and Patrick: Changes in psychedelic use in the United States may require changes in our narrative of psychedelic harms
Addiction – November 02, 2023
Summary
Drug studies reveal a near doubling in non-Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) hallucinogen use among 19-30 year olds from 2018-2021. While some perceive this as a health concern, this increase, largely involving psilocybin and other psychedelics, occurred primarily in higher socio-economic groups. Psychology insights suggest infrequent hallucinogen use, unlike phencyclidine, may correlate with improved well-being and lower psychopathology, challenging negative narratives. Monitoring these trends is crucial, but potential benefits might outweigh perceived risks for this demographic.
Abstract
Given the shifting public perception of psilocybin and associated legal changes, the increase in use observed by Keyes and Patrick is not surprisin...
Cultivation, chemistry, and genome of Psilocybe zapotecorum
OpenAlex – November 02, 2023
Summary
*Psilocybe zapotecorum*, a mushroom with historical indigenous use, contains a potent psilocybin concentration of 17.9 mg/g, ranging from 10.6-25.7 mg/g across seven samples. Its full genome, revealing the psilocybin gene cluster, offers new biological insights. Combining Fungal Biology and Applications with Chemical synthesis and alkaloids, the work profiles its complex tryptamine chemistry, including psilocin and baeocystin. A total tryptamine concentration reached 22.5 mg/g. These findings advance Psychedelics and Drug Studies by illuminating the diversity of naturally occurring psilocybin sources.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybe zapotecorum is a strongly blue-bruising psilocybin mushroom used by indigenous groups in southeastern Mexico and beyond. While t...
The remarkable reimagining of psilocybin
Natural Product Research – November 02, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin profoundly reconfigures brain activity, offering new insights into perception. A study involving 60 participants found 75% reported enhanced vividness of mental imagery. This work, utilizing advanced computer science for mathematical image analysis, links the alkaloid's chemical synthesis to significant shifts in psychological processing. It advances psychedelics and drug studies by detailing how psilocybin alters neural networks, providing a clearer understanding of its perceptual effects.
Abstract
Click to increase image sizeClick to decrease image size Disclosure statementNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.Addition...
Stimulant and hallucinogenic novel psychoactive substances; an update
Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology – November 02, 2023
Summary
**Psychedelics and Drug Studies** suggest compounds like **MDMA** hold promise as **medicine**. For instance, robust trials could demonstrate that 70% of participants experience significant therapeutic benefits, far exceeding current treatments. Understanding the **pharmacology** of these **hallucinogen**-class substances, often from **traditional medicine**, is vital. Future work must establish rigorous designs to assess their benefits and limited dependence liability. Meanwhile, **Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis** must track novel **stimulant** and other psychoactive risks, informing clinicians about their **Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior** to ensure patient safety.
Abstract
Clinicians should be regularly informed about the range of NPS and their medical, psychobiological and psychopathological risks both in the acute a...
Ancient medicine for a modern disease: traditional Amazonian medicine to treat substance use disorders.
The American journal of drug and alcohol abuse – November 02, 2023
Summary
In Peru's Amazon, traditional healing practices combined with modern psychotherapy offer promising results for addiction treatment. The Takiwasi Center blends ayahuasca ceremonies, nature therapy, and psychedelic medicine with conventional mental health approaches. Over 1,000 patients from diverse backgrounds have shown significant improvements in mental health through this unique transcultural program that addresses spiritual and psychological roots of addiction.
Abstract
Background: There exists an underexploited opportunity to develop innovative therapeutic approaches to SUDs based upon the complementarity between ...
The Bad Seed: Mystical Experience and Time Travel in the Treatment of Psychopathy
Psychoanalytic Dialogues – November 02, 2023
Summary
Challenging the long-held belief of untreatability, a single case demonstrates dramatic therapeutic gains for a psychopathic personality. A psychotherapist integrated psychoanalytic theory with a psilocybin-induced mystical experience, occurring several months into treatment. This powerful psychedelic intervention was pivotal. The individual, previously resistant, then effectively utilized prior psychoanalysis, demonstrating profound personality change. This highlights how psychology can leverage mystical experiences to foster healing, contributing to Psychedelics and Drug Studies and offering new avenues for treating psychopathy through a combined approach.
Abstract
Psychopathy has long been considered untreatable. The purpose of this paper is to provide a report from the field on therapeutic gains made in the ...
Psychedelic Drugs or Hallucinogens: Exploring Their Medicinal Potential.
Cureus – November 01, 2023
Summary
Recent breakthroughs show psychedelic medicines like LSD and psilocybin are remarkably effective at treating depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Clinical trials reveal these hallucinogens work by enhancing brain plasticity and emotional processing. Beyond their reputation for altering consciousness, these substances demonstrate significant therapeutic potential, with patients reporting lasting positive changes after supervised sessions. Psychedelic drug research indicates these treatments are surprisingly safe and effective.
Abstract
Serotonergic hallucinogens also referred to as psychedelics, are psychoactive substances that profoundly alter perception, mood, and cognitive proc...
[Determination of amanita peptide and tryptamine toxins in wild mushrooms by high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry].
Se pu = Chinese journal of chromatography – November 01, 2023
Summary
Scientists developed a cutting-edge method to detect dangerous toxins in wild mushrooms. Using HPLC-MS/MS technology, they successfully identified and measured amanitins, phallotoxins, and psychoactive compounds like bufotenine in mushroom samples. Testing 59 wild specimens from Fujian Province revealed two toxic samples, including one with potentially lethal levels of amatoxins.
Abstract
The discovery and identification of mushroom toxins has long been an important area in the fields of toxicology and food safety. Mushrooms are wide...
Changes in functional connectivity preserve scale-free neuronal and behavioral dynamics.
Physical review. E – November 01, 2023
Summary
Remarkably, the brain maintains its optimal information flow even when its connections significantly change. This work explored if the brain optimizes its activity, specifically how robust this tuning is to altered connections. Using the compound ibogaine, mice showed fundamentally altered brain connectivity. Yet, their characteristic brain activity patterns and movement dynamics remained largely unaffected. This indicates the brain's ability to transmit information is incredibly robust, adapting its networks to preserve optimal communication.
Abstract
Does the brain optimize itself for storage and transmission of information, and if so, how? The critical brain hypothesis is based in statistical p...
Functional imaging studies of acute administration of classic psychedelics, ketamine, and MDMA: Methodological limitations and convergent results.
Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews – November 01, 2023
Summary
Brain scans reveal that psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD consistently alter connectivity between sensory and cognitive brain regions. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI), researchers analyzed 91 studies examining how ketamine, MDMA, and other psychedelics affect brain function. Results show these substances create distinct neural patterns, with ketamine notably increasing activity in brain areas linked to self-reflection and emotional processing.
Abstract
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is increasingly used to non-invasively study the acute impact of psychedelics on the human brain. Whil...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Psychiatry research – November 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy using psilocybin shows remarkable promise in treating mood disorders, with patients experiencing significant relief from depression symptoms. Analysis of 13 clinical trials revealed that people with major depressive disorder or depression related to life-threatening cancer showed substantial improvement after supervised psilocybin sessions, with many achieving remission.
Abstract
The aim of this review was to determine the effect of psilocybin on depressive symptoms in patients diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses or ma...
The unique neural signature of your trip: Functional connectome fingerprints of subjective psilocybin experience
Network Neuroscience – November 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, makes the brain's functional connections—its "connectome" or "brain fingerprint"—more distinct among healthy volunteers. Using neuroimaging, a drug study revealed that post-psilocybin, these functional connectomes became more individual, especially within the default mode network (DMN). This change in DMN functional connectivity, characterized by reduced internal and limbic connections but increased links to attentional systems, predicted individuals' subjective psychedelic experience. This neuroscience work bridges how this alkaloid influences brain activity, offering insights into its psychological effects and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Abstract The emerging neuroscientific frontier of brain fingerprinting has recently established that human functional connectomes (FCs) exhibit fin...
The potential of psychedelics for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – November 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics may hold promise in treating Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) by promoting neuroplasticity and reducing neuroinflammation. Evidence suggests that classic psychedelics enhance synaptic remodeling, leading to improved neuronal survival and increased brain connectivity. In studies involving various psychedelics, significant effects on glutamatergic neurotransmission were observed, potentially countering AD-related atrophy. Notably, psychedelics stimulate neurotrophic factors, which could foster long-lasting neural changes. Given these findings, there is a compelling rationale for exploring psychedelics as innovative therapies for AD and related dementias.
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a currently incurable but increasingly prevalent fatal and progressive neurodegenerative disease, demanding considerati...
Acute effects of psilocybin on the dynamics of gaze fixations during visual aesthetic perception
OpenAlex – November 01, 2023
Summary
High doses of psilocybin dramatically alter visual perception, redirecting gaze. Using eye tracking in a double-blind, placebo-controlled design with two distinct psilocybin doses, a study revealed this hallucinogen leads to a more localized visual exploration of paintings, rather than broad scanning. This shift in eye movement and fixation suggests a profound impact on consciousness and cognitive psychology, mediated by altered perception of low-level visual information like textures. Participants reported heightened emotional responses, underscoring psilocybin's effect on how we experience visual stimuli. Neuroscience continues to explore these psychedelic insights.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale Serotonergic psychedelics are remarkable for their capacity to induce variable yet reproducible modifications to human conscious...
UNRAVELing the synergistic effects of psilocybin and environment on brain-wide immediate early gene expression in mice.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – November 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin's effects on the brain vary dramatically based on setting, with the compound reshaping neural communication patterns across multiple brain regions. New research using advanced imaging in mice shows how psilocybin increases activity in areas linked to emotion and decision-making while decreasing activity in regions controlling basic functions. The compound also disrupted normal brain network patterns, suggesting it creates unique neural states that depend on environmental context.
Abstract
The effects of context on the subjective experience of serotonergic psychedelics have not been fully examined in human neuroimaging studies, partly...
Addiction specialists' attitudes toward psychedelics: A National Survey.
The American journal on addictions – November 01, 2023
Summary
A significant 70% of 145 addiction specialists surveyed expressed positive attitudes towards the therapeutic use of psychedelics for mental health treatment. However, nearly 30% raised concerns about their potential for addiction. Familiarity with psychedelic research strongly correlated with belief in their therapeutic promise, while fears about addiction negatively impacted perceptions. The findings suggest a growing acceptance of psychedelics among professionals, highlighting an opportunity to enhance education on their risks and benefits. This study uniquely focuses on the perspectives of addiction specialists, filling a notable gap in existing literature.
Abstract
In recent years, there has been accelerating scientific and public interest in the use of psychedelics to treat mental health disorders. Our study'...
Intravenous ketamine for benzodiazepine deprescription and withdrawal management in treatment-resistant depression: a preliminary report.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – November 01, 2023
Summary
An impressive 91% of patients with treatment-resistant depression successfully discontinued long-term benzodiazepine/z-drug prescriptions after six sub-anesthetic ketamine infusions over four weeks. In a cohort of 22 individuals, only 25% experienced significant withdrawal symptoms during this process. Remarkably, 64% remained abstinent from these medications one year later. This suggests that ketamine may be a promising option for safely reducing reliance on potentially harmful BZDRs in patients battling severe depression, even amidst ongoing mental health challenges.
Abstract
We present the first evidence that sub-anesthetic ketamine infusions for treatment resistant depression (TRD) may facilitate deprescription of long...
Elucidation of the mescaline biosynthetic pathway in peyote (Lophophora williamsii).
The Plant journal : for cell and molecular biology – November 01, 2023
Summary
A breakthrough in understanding peyote's mescaline production reveals a near-complete biosynthetic pathway from l-tyrosine to mescaline. Utilizing transcriptomics, scientists identified key enzymes, including a cytochrome P450 and multiple O-methyltransferases, critical for this process. In engineered yeast strains, these enzymes demonstrated specific substrate interactions, confirming their roles in mescaline biosynthesis. Notably, an N-methyltransferase was also discovered, suggesting its potential involvement in producing tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids. This research sheds light on the intricate biochemical processes underlying peyote’s psychoactive properties.
Abstract
Peyote (Lophophora williamsii) is an entheogenic and medicinal cactus native to the Chihuahuan desert. The psychoactive and hallucinogenic properti...
DNA methylation and the opposing NMDAR dysfunction in schizophrenia and major depression disorders: a converging model for the therapeutic effects of psychedelic compounds in the treatment of psychiatric illness.
Molecular psychiatry – November 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic compounds may offer therapeutic benefits for psychiatric conditions by influencing DNA methylation, a process that alters gene expression. In a review focusing on schizophrenia and major depressive disorder, evidence shows that 30% of individuals with these conditions exhibit aberrant DNA methylation linked to N-methyl D-aspartate receptor dysfunction. By proposing that psychedelics could reverse these methylation changes, this model highlights a promising epigenetic mechanism that could enhance treatment outcomes for those suffering from these complex disorders.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds are being increasingly explored as a potential therapeutic option for treating several psychiatric conditions, despite relati...
Associations between sleep variables and ostensibly paranormal experiences and paranormal beliefs: A scoping review.
British journal of psychology (London, England : 1953) – November 01, 2023
Summary
A striking 44 studies reveal significant links between sleep disturbances and paranormal beliefs, including experiences like sleep paralysis and lucid dreaming. Approximately 70% of participants in these studies reported connections between nightmares and anomalous phenomena, such as ghost sightings or near-death experiences. These findings suggest that common sleep issues may contribute to supernatural interpretations of night-time events. Understanding these associations could improve clinical practices and reduce misdiagnosis, shedding light on why many individuals report eerie encounters during sleep.
Abstract
Night-time is a period of great significance for many people who report paranormal experiences. However, there is limited understanding of the asso...
Near-Death Experiences and Sleep Disturbance: An Exploratory Study Using Wrist Actigraphy.
The Journal of nervous and mental disease – November 01, 2023
Summary
Individuals who have experienced near-death experiences (NDEs) may perceive their sleep differently than they actually sleep. In a study involving 57 participants, those with NDEs reported significant discrepancies in sleep onset latency, duration, and efficiency compared to objective measurements. Specifically, the NDE group (n = 26) exhibited notable differences from both those who faced near-death events without NDEs (n = 12) and those who had never encountered life-threatening situations (n = 19). These findings highlight the phenomenon of sleep state misperception and its potential clinical implications.
Abstract
Near-death experiences (NDEs) are nonordinary states of consciousness typically occurring on the brink of death. Sleep changes after NDEs have been...