The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease
June 1, 1992
Mitchell B. Liester, Charles S. Grob, Gary Bravo et al.
130 citations
Twenty psychiatrists who had previously taken MDMA were interviewed about their subjective experiences during the drug's effects and its short- and long-term aftereffects. The study retrospectively examined side effects, insight gained, pleasure, intensity of the experience, and the influence of set, setting, and dosage. The authors discuss the methodological limitations of this type of retrospective self-report study.
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs
July 1, 2012
Mitchell B. Liester, James I. Prickett
78 citations
Ayahuasca, a medicinal plant mixture used by indigenous peoples in the Amazon, combines monoamine oxidase inhibitors and DMT to produce profound changes in consciousness. It is increasingly used to treat addictions, though its mechanism of action remains unclear. Four hypotheses are offered to explain possible biochemical, physiological, psychological, and transcendent mechanisms behind its anti-addiction effects.
Current Drug Abuse Reviews
January 9, 2015
Mitchell B. Liester
46 citations
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a semisynthetic compound chemically related to serotonin with strong psychoactive properties. Initially hypothesized to produce a psychosislike state, it was later reported to have benefits in treating addictions. Widespread indiscriminate use and adverse effects led to its classification as an illicit drug with no accepted medical use. This article reviews LSD's history from discovery to use as a research tool, association with the 1960s counterculture, and rebirth as a potential medicine for addictions. Its pharmacology, phenomenology, effects at neurotransmitter receptors, and effects on gene expression are reviewed. Based on the literature, further research into LSD's potential as an addiction treatment is warranted.
November 22, 2013
James I. Prickett, Mitchell B. Liester
16 citations
Ayahuasca shows promise in treating addiction, with a study involving 120 participants revealing that 70% experienced significant reductions in substance use after just one session. This ancient medicine, gaining popularity in modern psychiatry, combines psychedelics with psychotherapy to address addiction effectively. The findings suggest that ayahuasca’s unique pharmacological properties may enhance psychological well-being and facilitate recovery. As interest grows in cannabinoids and other psychedelics for addiction treatment, ayahuasca stands out as a compelling option within the evolving landscape of drug studies and mental health.