A single oral dose of methamphetamine (20 mg) reduced blood levels of the endocannabinoid 2-AG in healthy adults, while MDMA (100 mg) did not. Neither drug affected anandamide (AEA) levels. Under placebo, higher AEA concentrations were linked to disliking the drug effects, suggesting a connection between AEA and negative expectations. These findings show how stimulants act on the endocannabinoid system and may inform treatments for substance use disorders.
Mystical-type experiences induced by psychedelic therapy are commonly linked to reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms, according to a scoping review of 13 clinical trials involving 410 participants. Among studies with life-threatening disease populations, 80% reported a positive relationship between mystical-type experiences and mood improvement, compared to 63% of studies with depressive populations. The review suggests this relationship may depend on factors like timing of symptom assessments and therapeutic context. Future research should examine variables affecting mystical-type experiences and other aspects of set and setting to optimize positive outcomes.