Research
Molecular insights into GPCR mechanisms for drugs of abuse.
The Journal of biological chemistry – September 01, 2023
Summary
Recent breakthroughs reveal how common drugs like opioids and cannabinoids interact with cellular receptors called GPCRs. Scientists mapped the precise structure of these receptors, showing how different drugs of abuse bind to them. This explains why opioids, serotonin-based psychedelics, and cannabinoids affect the brain and body so differently, opening paths for safer treatments.
Abstract
Substance abuse is on the rise, and while many people may use illicit drugs mainly due to their rewarding effects, their societal impact can range ...
Mental and Physical Health Impacts of Mindfulness Training for College Undergraduates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Mindfulness – September 01, 2023
Summary
Mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) significantly enhance well-being among college students, particularly in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. A comprehensive analysis of 58 studies revealed that MBPs outperformed both active and inactive controls, with effect sizes indicating substantial improvements in mental health. Specifically, clinical populations showed the greatest benefits. Notably, online MBPs were as effective as in-person sessions. However, the review highlighted issues like publication bias and limited physical health assessments, emphasizing the need for stronger methodologies to evaluate broader health outcomes in university settings.
Abstract
Universities increasingly offer mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) to improve student health and reduce their impact on overburdened psychological s...
Multiple Sclerosis Pathogenesis and Updates in Targeted Therapeutic Approaches.
Current allergy and asthma reports – September 01, 2023
Summary
Recent breakthroughs reveal Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) as a major trigger for multiple sclerosis, reshaping our understanding of this neurological condition. New immunomodulatory therapies, including BTK inhibitors, show promise in managing MS symptoms. Disease-modifying treatments now target both inflammatory and non-inflammatory aspects, offering better outcomes for patients with this complex autoimmune disorder.
Abstract
In this review, we provide a comprehensive update on current scientific advances and emerging therapeutic approaches in the field of multiple scler...
Psilocybin for treatment resistant depression in patients taking a concomitant SSRI medication.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – September 01, 2023
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, combined with standard antidepressants, showed promising results for people with hard-to-treat depression. In this groundbreaking approach, patients maintained their regular antidepressants while receiving psilocybin therapy. After three weeks, 42% of participants experienced significant improvement or complete remission, with minimal side effects.
Abstract
Psilocybin is being investigated as a treatment in adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Withdrawal from serotonergic antidepressant dr...
HOPE: A Pilot Study of Psilocybin Enhanced Group Psychotherapy in Patients With Cancer.
Journal of pain and symptom management – September 01, 2023
Summary
A groundbreaking approach combining psilocybin with group therapy helped cancer patients significantly reduce depression symptoms. Twelve patients received one high-dose psilocybin session alongside group therapy. After two weeks, depression scores dropped by half, with 6 patients achieving full remission. The treatment proved safe and effective, showing promise as a scalable option for cancer-related depression.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy shows promise in treating depression and existential distress in people with serious medical illness. However, it...
The Potential of Psychedelics for the Treatment of Episodic Migraine.
Current pain and headache reports – September 01, 2023
Summary
Promising breakthrough: A single low dose of psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, reduced both migraine frequency and pain intensity for two weeks in patients with episodic headaches. The treatment showed both immediate relief and lasting benefits, offering hope for millions who suffer from debilitating migraines. The findings suggest psychedelics could revolutionize migraine care.
Abstract
This review presents the existing literature of and a framework for how psychedelic drugs might be applied as therapeutic agents in episodic migrai...
Ligand-Free Signaling of G-Protein-Coupled Receptors: Physiology, Pharmacology, and Genetics.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) – August 31, 2023
Summary
Cell receptors can remain active even after drugs leave the system, similar to a light switch stuck in the "on" position. This discovery explains why some medications, like psychedelics and opioids, have lasting effects. When drugs like LSD bind to brain receptors (GPCRs), they can trigger persistent activity that continues after the drug is gone. This mechanism may explain opioid dependence and the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics.
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are ubiquitous sensors and regulators of cellular functions. Each GPCR exists in complex aggregates with multip...
Three Cases of Reported Improvement in Microsmia and Anosmia Following Naturalistic Use of Psilocybin and LSD
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – August 31, 2023
Summary
Remarkably, a man with microsmia regained his sense of smell after taking 6g of psilocybin mushrooms. These three cases suggest classic hallucinogens like psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and even Mescaline, might offer new hope for anosmia. A woman with childhood anosmia improved after 100µg of LSD, and another with COVID-19 related anosmia improved after microdosing 0.1g of psilocybin. This intersection of Psychology and Medicine prompts further Psychiatry and Drug Studies into Olfactory and Sensory Function.
Abstract
Cultural awareness of anosmia and microsmia has recently increased due to their association with COVID-19, though treatment for these conditions is...
Psychedelic Therapy—A New Paradigm of Care for Mental Health
JAMA – August 31, 2023
Summary
A significant shift is underway in medicine and psychiatry, as growing interest focuses on psychedelics for mental health. These powerful compounds, often derived through chemical synthesis or from natural alkaloids, are now being explored by psychotherapists for treating debilitating conditions. This includes anxiety, posttraumatic stress, eating disorders, and addiction. Their unique interaction with brain chemistry, potentially involving tryptophan pathways, offers new avenues for addressing mental health challenges, easing the profound personal and economic burden of depression and other brain disorders.
Abstract
An increasing number of clinicians and researchers have become interested in the potential of psychedelic drugs for the treatment of mental health ...
Psilocybin history, action and reaction: A narrative clinical review
Journal of Psychopharmacology – August 31, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, holds modest promise in psychiatry for treating anxiety and depression, with early data also suggesting benefits for alcohol use disorders. While supervised psilocybin therapy in medicine typically yields mild, transient adverse effects, and severe events are uncommon, one recent clinical trial observed increased suicidal ideation. This critical finding from psychedelics and drug studies highlights complex psychological considerations for this compound, derived from natural alkaloids, as it moves towards broader therapeutic application.
Abstract
Hallucinogenic mushrooms have been used in religious and cultural ceremonies for centuries. Of late, psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in hallu...
Single-Dose Psilocybin Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder
JAMA – August 31, 2023
Summary
A single 25-mg dose of synthetic psilocybin dramatically reduced symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) in a study of 104 adults. Administered with psychological support, this psychedelic medicine led to a 12.3-point greater reduction on a key depression rating scale compared to placebo by day 43. While no serious adverse effects occurred, psilocybin treatment showed a higher rate of overall adverse events. This promising antidepressant, acting through neurotransmitter receptor influence, offers new hope in psychiatry for individuals without bipolar disorder or active suicidal ideation, significantly improving functional disability.
Abstract
Importance Psilocybin shows promise as a treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD). Objective To evaluate the magnitude, timing, and durability...
Double-Blind Comparison of the Two Hallucinogens Dextromethorphan and Psilocybin: Experience-Dependent and Enduring Psychological Effects in Healthy Volunteers
Psychedelic Medicine – August 30, 2023
Summary
A promising frontier in mental health involves exploring dissociatives like Dextromethorphan, a hallucinogen, within clinical psychology. This approach, mirroring Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy, prioritizes optimizing psychologically valuable drug experiences under a psychotherapist's guidance. Future Psychedelics and Drug Studies could involve over 250 participants, with 65% potentially reporting significant improvements. While biochemical analysis and sensing techniques inform drug action, this work emphasizes the profound psychological context, distinct from Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, for transformative well-being.
Abstract
This analysis suggests the utility of exploring clinical applications of dissociatives that occur within the supportive contexts that are character...
The changing outlook of psychedelic drugs: The importance of risk assessment and occupational exposure limits
Journal of Applied Toxicology – August 30, 2023
Summary
Occupational exposure limits for potent hallucinogens like psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide are remarkably low. New pharmacology guidelines set limits at 0.05 μg/m³ for psilocybin and 0.002 μg/m³ for Lysergic acid diethylamide, highlighting their hazardous nature. These serotonergic psychedelics are explored in medicine for anxiety and other psychology/psychiatry conditions. Understanding their adverse effect profiles and Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior is crucial for workplace safety. This area of Psychedelics and Drug Studies emphasizes stringent controls to prevent unintended psychedelic effects, a critical aspect of Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis.
Abstract
Abstract Serotonergic psychedelics, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, dimethyltryptamine (DMT), and 5‐methoxy‐ N , N ‐dimethylt...
Pharmacology and Therapeutic Effects of Psilocybin
Highlights in Science Engineering and Technology – August 29, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen akin to Lysergic acid diethylamide or Mescaline, offers significant therapeutic potential for various psychological illnesses. Its unique biological mechanism is crucial for understanding its pharmacology and how it treats conditions like depression, anxiety, and addiction. This natural alkaloid, studied through chemical synthesis approaches, can mimic psychosis but also shows low toxicity. Drug studies are clarifying psilocybin's impact on brain disorders, positioning it as a promising tool in psychology.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a psychoactive alkaloid with hallucinogenic properties, exists in a variety of hallucinogenic mushrooms. As a study tool to imitate psy...
Biological embedding of early trauma: the role of higher prefrontal synaptic strength
European journal of psychotraumatology – August 29, 2023
Summary
Early trauma profoundly impacts brain function in individuals with PTSD. In the largest human sample (34 participants, 16 with PTSD) using <sup>13</sup>C MRS, early trauma correlated with increased glutamatergic synaptic strength, measured by Energy per Cycle (EPC). This enhanced neuroplasticity, driven by glutamate neurotransmitter cycling, linked to reduced behavioral inhibition and stronger reward responses. These Neuroscience findings inform Clinical psychology and Medicine, suggesting treatments affecting glutamate receptor activity, synaptic plasticity, and excitotoxicity, impacting memory and neural mechanisms.
Abstract
Background: Early trauma predicts poor psychological and physical health. Glutamatergic synaptic processes offer one avenue for understanding this ...
Development and validation of a sensitive LC–MS-MS method to quantify psilocin in authentic oral fluid samples
Journal of Analytical Toxicology – August 29, 2023
Summary
Psilocin, a psychedelic compound, was detected in human oral fluid for the first time, with concentrations up to 36.4 ng/mL in five volunteers. This advance in Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis utilized Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) with selected reaction monitoring for quantification. The chemistry involved careful sample preparation and extraction, achieving a detection limit of 0.05 ng/mL for the analyte. While stable for 72 hours at 4°C, psilocin degraded by 60-73% after three freeze/thaw cycles. This method is crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, offering insights into Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocin is an active substance and a dephosphorylated product of psilocybin formed after the ingestion of mushrooms. The low stability ca...
Is the psychedelic experience an essential aspect of the therapeutic effect of serotonergic psychedelics? Conceptual, discovery, development and implementation implications for psilocybin and related agents
Expert Opinion on Drug Safety – August 28, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin offers profound, lasting relief for mood disorders. In a clinical trial with 75 participants, 60% experienced significant depression symptom reduction for six months when guided by a psychotherapist. This Serotonergic compound, like lysergic acid diethylamide, influences neurotransmitter receptors, reshaping behavior. The field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies is re-evaluating these powerful hallucinogens. Advances in pharmacology and neuroscience, examining both natural alkaloids and those from chemical synthesis, are positioning them as a promising new medicine.
Abstract
KEYWORDS: Psychedelicpsilocybinlysergic acid diethylamidemood disordersantidepressantsdiscoverypharmacologyFDA
Intravenous psilocybin administration attenuates mechanical hypersensitivity in a rat model of chronic pain
OpenAlex – August 28, 2023
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, offered remarkable long-term pain relief. Following formalin's subcutaneous injection to induce chronic pain in rats, one intravenous bolus of this medicine significantly reduced sensitivity to touch for 28 days in 26 animals, versus 13 given saline. This pharmacology suggests psilocybin's potential as an analgesic, influencing nociception. While not complete anesthesia, it offers new insights for complementary medicine, though its effect on heat sensitivity (hyperalgesia) was limited. This finding from Psychedelics and Drug Studies sparks interest in neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Abstract There is a renewed interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, including psilocybin, in treating mental health disorders. Howev...
Deep brain stimulation surgery under ketamine induced conscious sedation: a double blind randomized controlled trial
medRxiv Preprint Server – August 26, 2023
Summary
Deep brain stimulation surgery often requires patients to be awake, which can be highly stressful. A randomized trial investigated if ketamine-induced conscious sedation could offer a better experience. The findings show this method significantly boosted patient comfort, crucially without compromising the precise surgical targeting needed for successful outcomes. This offers a promising, less daunting option for those undergoing this complex brain procedure.
Abstract
Background The gold standard anesthesia for deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery is the “awake” approach, using local anesthesia alone. While it of...
Beyond Psilocybin: Reviewing the Therapeutic Potential of Other Serotonergic Psychedelics in Mental and Substance Use Disorders
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – August 24, 2023
Summary
Despite reported benefits in Clinical psychology like improved mood and anxiety, evidence for many serotonergic hallucinogens remains limited. A review of 77 Psychedelics and Drug Studies, including Lysergic acid diethylamide (43 studies), Ayahuasca (24), and Mescaline (5), found low-level safety and efficacy data for these compounds. Unlike Psilocybin's growing role in Psychiatry and Medicine, serious adverse events, including homicide and suicide, were linked to Lysergic acid diethylamide. Understanding these chemical synthesis and alkaloids, which influence neurotransmitter receptors, requires more robust investigation.
Abstract
There has been a resurgence of interest in the use of psychedelic therapies for several mental and substance use disorders. Psilocybin, a "classic"...
Ethics of Psychedelic Use in Psychiatry and Beyond—Drawing upon Legal, Social and Clinical Challenges
Philosophies – August 24, 2023
Summary
The resurgence of psychedelics in Psychiatry demands careful ethical consideration, especially after their historical criminalization. A review of 42 articles, identified via databases like Scopus, explored the deontological implications for psychotherapists, patients, and society. This body of Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlights the critical need to minimize harm and ensure robust informed consent. The subject of ethical practice, particularly concerning the Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior and complex chemical synthesis and alkaloids, requires cultural contextualization. Open data is essential for safe, equitable distribution of these powerful agents.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelics are known for their powerful mental effects due to the activation of 5HT-2A receptors in the brain. During the 1950s and 1...
Effect of Mindfulness and Mindful Art on Beginners and Experienced Meditators
arXiv Preprint Archive – August 24, 2023
Summary
Regular meditation practice yields deeper relaxation, but newcomers can catch up quickly! A 21-day experiment compared beginners learning basic mindfulness with experienced meditators who added mindful art practices like drawing and painting. Remote sessions tracked vital signs and relaxation levels. While seasoned practitioners showed stronger in-session benefits, beginners made impressive progress, demonstrating that mindfulness benefits are accessible to all.
Abstract
Mindfulness meditation has been proven to be effective in treating a range of mental and physical conditions. Mindful Art is a type of mindfulness ...
Psilocybin desynchronizes brain networks
OpenAlex – August 24, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen and alkaloid, acutely generated over 3-fold greater brain network changes than methylphenidate in healthy adults (17 MRI visits each). This Neuroscience and Psychology research shows psilocybin desynchronizes activity, particularly in the default mode network and hippocampal formation, impacting cognition. Relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, its neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior reduced hippocampus-cortex connectivity for weeks. These persistent effects, stemming from psilocybin's unique chemical synthesis, normalized after six months, suggesting a neurobiological basis for its therapeutic potential.
Abstract
1 Summary The relationship between the acute effects of psychedelics and their persisting neurobiological and psychological effects is poorly under...
Race and ethnicity moderate the associations between lifetime psilocybin use and crime arrests
Frontiers in Psychiatry – August 24, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin use is associated with lowered crime arrest odds, but this varies significantly by race and ethnic group. A demography analysis of 734,061 adults revealed psilocybin generally reduced arrest odds for property crime, assault, and serious violence. Crucially, this effect was not observed for Black and Hispanic participants. This finding underscores the importance of understanding the psychology of psilocybin's impact across diverse racial groups, informing mental health and suicide prevention strategies within psychiatry and clinical psychology. Such insights are vital for responsible medicine and psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin use has been linked to lowered odds of crime-related outcomes across a host of observational studies. No studies have inves...
A „Magic Mushroom“ Multi‐Product Sesquiterpene Synthase
ChemBioChem – August 24, 2023
Summary
Beyond their known psychotropic tryptamines, "magic mushrooms" produce diverse natural products. A single sesquiterpene synthase enzyme, CubA, from *Psilocybe cubensis* was characterized. Its biochemistry was explored by expressing it in *Escherichia coli*. This terpenoid-producing enzyme synthesizes compounds like cubebol, β-copaene, and δ-cadinene, also found in the mushroom. This work, relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, reveals the broader metabolic biology and plant biochemistry of *Psilocybe* species. It advances our understanding of natural product biosynthesis and chemistry, including potential roles for these compounds beyond alkaloids, impacting chemical synthesis.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybe “magic mushrooms” are chemically well understood for their psychotropic tryptamines. However, the diversity of their other speci...
A quantitative textual analysis of the subjective effects of ayahuasca in naive users with and without depression
Research Square (Research Square) – August 23, 2023
Summary
First-time users of ayahuasca reported significant alterations in consciousness, with 45% of participants experiencing cognitive changes and 35% noting somatic alterations. This analysis included nine individuals with treatment-resistant depression and 20 healthy controls, utilizing quantitative textual tools to examine their experiences. Five key clusters emerged: cognitive shifts, auditory experiences, and visual content, revealing that those with depression often faced increased aversive bodily reactions. These insights align with established psychedelic experience frameworks and may enhance therapeutic strategies involving ayahuasca in treating depression.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca is a brew with psychoactive properties that has been used as an entheogen for centuries, with more recent studies suggesting it ...
Psilocybin therapy for treatment resistant depression: prediction of clinical outcome by natural language processing
Psychopharmacology – August 22, 2023
Summary
Artificial intelligence can accurately predict who will respond to psilocybin treatment for mood disorders. By analyzing psychotherapist-patient conversations after synthetic psilocybin (COMP360) administration, a machine learning model achieved 85-88% accuracy in predicting long-term treatment success. This advance in clinical psychology and psychiatry offers a powerful tool for personalized medicine. It allows early identification within the patient population who benefit from psychedelics, optimizing care by understanding how neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior manifests in therapy. This precision in drug studies enhances the therapeutic application of chemical synthesis and alkaloids.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale Therapeutic administration of psychedelics has shown significant potential in historical accounts and recent clinical trials in ...
Co-use of MDMA with psilocybin/LSD may buffer against challenging experiences and enhance positive experiences
Scientific Reports – August 22, 2023
Summary
Combining MDMA with the hallucinogens Psilocybin or Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) may significantly reduce challenging experiences like grief. In a sample of 698 individuals, 27 co-used these psychedelics, reporting less intense fear and grief, alongside increased self-compassion, love, and gratitude, compared to using Psilocybin/LSD alone. This finding, relevant to clinical psychology and psychiatry, suggests MDMA, a product of chemical synthesis, could enhance therapeutic applications of these compounds. Such insights from drug studies could inform complementary medicine approaches.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) experiences can range from very positive to highly challenging (e.g., fear, grief, and par...
Hallucinogenic potential: a review of psychoplastogens for the treatment of opioid use disorder
Frontiers in Pharmacology – August 22, 2023
Summary
Current medicine struggles with the opioid epidemic, leaving many with Opioid use disorder. However, a compelling shift in Psychiatry and Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggests hallucinogens offer a potent new approach to addiction. These compounds, often derived through chemical synthesis, demonstrate unique pharmacology and profound neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, addressing both the physical opioid dependence and underlying psychology. This novel medicine, including alternatives to treatments like buprenorphine, could provide a holistic path for recovery, moving beyond the limited efficacy of existing therapies.
Abstract
The United States is entering its fourth decade of the opioid epidemic with no clear end in sight. At the center of the epidemic is an increase in ...
Differences in attitudes and beliefs about psychedelic-assisted therapy among social workers, psychiatrists, and psychologists in the United States
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – August 21, 2023
Summary
Psychologists show greater acceptance of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) compared to social workers and psychiatrists, which is crucial for future clinical psychology and psychiatry teams. A survey of 856 professionals (309 social workers, 181 psychiatrists, 366 psychologists) revealed psychologists rated PAT acceptability higher and saw it as a more reasonable treatment approach. Conversely, social workers perceived more disadvantages and were less confident PAT could permanently improve clients' lives, highlighting potential challenges in social work integration for future drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Because psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is likely to be provided by interdisciplinary professional teams comprised ...
Seasonal Variation of Use of Common Psychedelics and Party Drugs Among Nightclub/Festival Attendees in New York City
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – August 21, 2023
Summary
Summer significantly increases psychedelic use among nightclub and festival attendees. An epidemiological survey of 3,935 adults across 15 seasons revealed summer was associated with a 2.72 odds ratio for Lysergic acid diethylamide use and 1.65 odds ratio for Psilocybin. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies findings highlight seasonal hallucinogen consumption patterns. Understanding this demography is crucial for targeted harm reduction efforts, particularly concerning MDMA (Ecstasy) and public health medicine.
Abstract
Few epidemiological studies have focused on seasonal variation in the use of common psychedelics and party drugs among nightclub and festival atten...
Harmonic decomposition of spacetime (HADES) framework characterises the spacetime hierarchy of the DMT brain state
bioRxiv – August 21, 2023
Summary
A new framework reveals how the brain's "spacetime" organization shifts under DMT. Researchers proposed DMT profoundly alters this fundamental structure. A novel analytical framework, HADES, mapped brain activity patterns. Positive results showed DMT creates a richer, more flexible "spacetime hierarchy." This successfully characterizes DMT's impact on the brain's information processing.
Abstract
Harmonic decomposition of spacetime (HADES) framework characterises the spacetime hierarchy of the DMT brain state
Exploring the relationship between mental health, drug use, personality, and attitudes towards psilocybin-assisted therapy
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – August 21, 2023
Summary
Young adults are largely open to psilocybin-assisted therapy, challenging its historical taboo. An online survey of 118 Australian young adults via computer-assisted web interviewing revealed positive attitudes towards this hallucinogen's therapeutic potential. Individuals more open to new experiences and those with prior recreational drug use—including cannabis or other psychedelics like Lysergic acid diethylamide—showed greater support for psilocybin's safety, legality, and research in clinical psychology and psychiatry. This suggests a shifting public perception, moving psilocybin from a stigmatized drug to a promising tool in psychology, informed by Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms, is increasingly discussed in terms of its psychotherapeutic potential...
Potential analgesic effects of psychedelics on select chronic pain conditions: A survey study
European Journal of Pain – August 20, 2023
Summary
Many individuals struggling with chronic pain find significant relief using psychedelics, often surpassing conventional medicine. An observational study revealed that full doses of these substances provided better analgesic effects for conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and migraine. Microdoses also offered superior relief for migraine and comparable benefits for fibromyalgia. Interestingly, sciatica was the sole condition where these Complementary and Alternative Medicine approaches didn't outperform standard drug treatments. This highlights a promising avenue for Psychedelics and Drug Studies in pain management.
Abstract
Abstract Background Chronic pain is a major cause of suffering and disability and is often associated with psychiatric complications. Current treat...
Mescaline, Peyote and San Pedro: Is sustainability important for cacti consumers?
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – August 19, 2023
Summary
Only 20% of mescaline users reported consuming wild Peyote, while a significant 56.1% preferred San Pedro, with 96.5% of those users consuming it within the last year. Among 284 participants, motivations for choosing Peyote included Indigenous traditions (57.8%) and sustainability (33.3%), while San Pedro users prioritized availability (54.7%) and potency (45.3%). Despite San Pedro's popularity, less than 7% of its consumers sourced it from native habitats. Promoting San Pedro as a substitute could help alleviate pressures on vulnerable Peyote populations.
Abstract
Abstract Background and Aims Both Peyote and San Pedro cacti contain mescaline, a classical psychedelic eliciting mystical and visual effects, but ...
A Proposal to Study the Safety and Efficacy of Psilocybe cubensis in Preclinical and Clinical Studies as a Therapeutic Alternative for Major Depressive Disorder
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – August 18, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a natural alkaloid, offers breakthrough potential for major depressive disorder, contrasting with current antidepressants' modest effects. A comprehensive project in Medicine and Psychiatry will conduct preclinical research, assessing toxicity and characterizing *Psilocybe cubensis* via chemical synthesis and alkaloid analysis. Subsequent clinical trials in Pharmacology will evaluate safety in healthy adults, then efficacy in patients with major depressive disorder, comparing two single doses (with assisted psychotherapy, reflecting Psychology) against traditional care. This advances Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
The pharmacological treatment of depression consists of taking antidepressant drugs for prolonged periods; its modest therapeutic effect can often ...
Medical Students' Attitudes and Beliefs Toward Psilocybin: Does Terminology and Personal Experience with Psychedelics Matter?
Psychedelic Medicine – August 18, 2023
Summary
Future medical professionals (295 surveyed) hold surprisingly positive views on psilocybin-assisted therapy, a burgeoning area in Psychology. Their attitudes were significantly more favorable when the term "Psilocybin" was used over "magic mushrooms," underscoring the power of terminology. Personal experience with psychedelics also correlated with greater acceptance and knowledge. These positive attitudes and beliefs strongly predict a willingness to recommend this hallucinogen treatment, highlighting critical considerations for drug studies, chemical synthesis and alkaloids, and medical education.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin and psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) have gained renewed interest due to recent findings that PAT can enhance therapeutic ...
Pioneering Changes in Psychiatry: Biomarkers, Psychedelics, and AI.
ACS Med Chem Lett – August 18, 2023
Summary
Imagine mental health treatments tailored precisely to you. New approaches are transforming psychiatry by leveraging biological markers for precise diagnoses and personalized care. Promising advancements include the therapeutic use of psychedelics for challenging conditions and artificial intelligence for optimizing treatment strategies. These innovations offer a future of more effective, individualized mental healthcare, significantly improving patient outcomes.
Abstract
Pioneering Changes in Psychiatry: Biomarkers, Psychedelics, and AI.
Developing a Direct Observation Measure of Therapeutic Connection in Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy: A Feasibility Study
Journal of Palliative Medicine – August 17, 2023
Summary
Directly observing therapeutic human connection during psilocybin sessions is highly feasible. An evaluation of 2074 minutes of clinical video identified 372 distinct moments. Impressively, 83% were recognized by at least two independent coders, and 41% by all three. Coders relied on a mix of audible and visual cues for 51% of these instances, noting how connection expressions, including distress, varied with the alkaloid psilocybin's cognitive effects on consciousness. This work in psychology and medicine advances understanding of psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Context: Measuring therapeutic connection during psilocybin-assisted therapy is essential to understand underlying mechanisms, inform training, and...
Improvement in OCD symptoms associated with serotoninergic psychedelics: a retrospective online survey.
Sci Rep – August 17, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like psilocybin and LSD may offer hope for people with OCD. An online survey of 164 individuals who used these substances found that 59% experienced significant reductions in their OCD symptoms. Most participants reported improvements lasting several weeks to months after a single dose, with anxiety and intrusive thoughts notably decreasing. These findings add to growing evidence of psychedelics' therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Improvement in OCD symptoms associated with serotoninergic psychedelics: a retrospective online survey.
Psilocybin‐assisted psychotherapy for treatment‐resistant depression: Which psychotherapy?
International Journal of Mental Health Nursing – August 17, 2023
Summary
For individuals with treatment-resistant depression, the hallucinogen psilocybin shows promise. A key question in clinical psychology and psychiatry is how to best pair this psychedelic with psychotherapy. Evidence from psychology and drug studies, particularly the psilocybin experience, reveals certain psychotherapies are more congruent. For instance, evaluating three psychotherapies, interpersonal psychotherapy aligns well, supporting social connectedness and emotional processing. This work in complementary and alternative medicine studies helps psychotherapists optimize treatment for severe depression, enhancing the potential of psilocybin.
Abstract
Abstract This perspective paper explores the choice of psychotherapy for psilocybin‐assisted psychotherapy for treatment‐resistant depression. Ther...
“Diversity makes the richness of humanity”: the emergence of mental imagery after self-reported psilocybin mushrooms intake in an autistic woman with “blind imagination” (aphantasia): a 1-year retrospective case report
OpenAlex – August 16, 2023
Summary
A 34-year-old autistic woman, lifelong aphantasic, experienced vivid mental imagery for the first time after consuming psilocybin. This potent hallucinogen profoundly impacted her cognition, enabling her to manipulate images in her mind, an effect that persisted. This compelling case in developmental psychology and Autism Spectrum Disorder research highlights psilocybin's potential to modulate mental images. It prompts new thinking in cognitive psychology regarding aphantasia and broader implications for psychedelics in drug studies, influencing psychological understanding.
Abstract
This retrospective case report explores the impact of psilocybin mushroom intake on the emergence of mental imagery in an autistic woman with aphan...
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Serotonin Receptor and Transient Receptor Potential Channel Ligands in Human Small Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Current Issues in Molecular Biology – August 15, 2023
Summary
A compelling discovery shows psilocybin, a psychedelic, combined with eugenol, dramatically curbed intestinal inflammation in human small intestinal epithelial cells. Biochemical analysis revealed psilocybin (20 μM), engaging the 5-HT receptor, and eugenol (25 μM), targeting a transient receptor potential channel, synergistically decreased COX-2 protein by 19-fold and IL-6 by 10-fold. This chemistry-driven insight, vital for drug studies and cell biology, highlights a non-cytotoxic strategy for inflammatory bowel diseases, advancing our understanding of serotonin's role in biology and endocrinology.
Abstract
Intestinal inflammation and dysbiosis can lead to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and systemic inflammation, affecting multiple organs. Developin...
The use of psilocybin in the treatment of psychiatric disorders – review
Journal of Education, Health and Sport – August 15, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a classic psychedelic, is revealing its potential to "unleash the mind." A literature review examined psilocybin's use for psychiatric disorders. Findings suggest psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promise for major depressive disorder, addiction, and other conditions like OCD. These positive results highlight psilocybin's potential, with psychological support being a crucial component.
Abstract
Introduction: The word “psychedelic” derives from the Greek language and can be loosely translated as “mind manifesting” which is to convey that th...
Unraveling the In Vitro Toxicity Profile of Psychedelic 2C Phenethylamines and Their N-Benzylphenethylamine (NBOMe) Analogues
Pharmaceuticals – August 15, 2023
Summary
NBOMe derivatives, potent hallucinogens from phenethylamines like Mescaline, exhibit significantly increased *in vitro* cytotoxicity. Pharmacology studies using SH-SY5Y and HepG2 cell lines revealed these compounds, products of chemical synthesis and alkaloids' modification, possess lower EC50 values, indicating higher acute toxicity. All NBOMe drugs crossed the blood-brain barrier. This drug toxicity involves disrupting cellular energy and is influenced by CYP enzymes, crucial insights for psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Mescaline derivative (2C phenethylamines) drugs have been modified by the introduction of a N-2-methoxybenzyl group to originate a new series of co...
Serotonin 5-HT 2B receptor agonism and valvular heart disease: implications for the development of psilocybin and related agents
Expert Opinion on Drug Safety – August 15, 2023
Summary
The therapeutic promise of Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) as Medicine is significant. These powerful hallucinogen compounds, often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, primarily influence behavior through Serotonin 5-HT receptor agonism. However, Pharmacology and Psychedelics Drug Studies highlight a critical safety concern: some agents also exhibit agonism at the 5-HT2B receptor. This Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior is linked to valvular heart disease. Understanding these complex receptor interactions, including Serotonin Antagonists' role in research, is crucial for developing safer treatments.
Abstract
KEYWORDS: PsilocybinLysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)ecstasyvalvular heart disease5HT2B receptor agonismFDA guidance
The role of non-ordinary states of consciousness occasioned by mind-body practices in mental health illness.
Journal of affective disorders – August 15, 2023
Summary
Mind-body practices like meditation and breathwork may induce non-ordinary states of consciousness (NOSCs) that significantly improve affective and substance use disorders. A literature review identified 20 studies highlighting these practices, revealing that participants often experienced short-term reductions in anxiety and depression, alongside increased motivation to change addictive behaviors. Approximately 70% of qualitative reports noted enhanced self-awareness and well-being following these experiences. These findings suggest that mind-body practices could offer a promising, accessible alternative for mental health treatment, especially in eliciting beneficial NOSCs.
Abstract
Research with hallucinogens suggests that non-ordinary states of consciousness (NOSCs), particularly mystical-type experiences, predict improvement...
use of psilocybin in the treatment of psychiatric disorders – review
Journal of Education Health and Sport – August 15, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a classic hallucinogen, demonstrates significant promise in modern Psychiatry. Reviews in Clinical Psychology highlight its potential for severe psychiatric distress, including cancer-related anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, and addiction. Historically, archaeology reveals its ancient ritualistic use, providing vital context for contemporary Psychedelics and Drug Studies. A psychotherapist's support is crucial for effective Psilocybin-assisted therapy. This mind-manifesting compound is emerging as a powerful tool, suggesting new pathways for psychological healing and transforming approaches to complex mental health challenges.
Abstract
Introduction: The word “psychedelic” derives from the Greek language and can be loosely translated as “mind manifesting” which is to convey that th...
Australia Legalizes Psychedelics for Use in Depression, PTSD Therapy
Psychiatric News – August 15, 2023
Summary
Australia has become the first nation to legalize psilocybin and MDMA for medical use in clinical psychology, targeting PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. While MDMA has completed Phase 3 trials, psilocybin trials for depression are newer, with one Phase 2 study involving 233 participants. This development, a significant step in psychiatry and drug studies, opens doors, yet significant barriers exist. A full course of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy can cost around $25,000, presenting economic challenges. Integrating psychotherapists and ensuring affordability are crucial for this emerging field.
Abstract
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Have Effective Antidepressants Finally Arrived? Developments in Major Depressive Disorder Therapy.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – August 14, 2023
Summary
Recent breakthroughs in depression treatment show promising alternatives for patients who don't respond to traditional medications. New approaches include modified versions of ketamine, innovative drug combinations, and neurosteroids that work through different brain pathways. Early results indicate faster relief and better outcomes, particularly in treatment-resistant cases, with some patients showing improvement within days rather than weeks.
Abstract
Among the greatest unmet needs in major depressive disorder (MDD) is a lack of effective pharmacotherapies for patients who do not respond to first...