Research
Enantioselective degradation of amphetamine-like environmental micropollutants (amphetamine, methamphetamine, MDMA and MDA) in urban water
Environmental Pollution – May 13, 2016
Summary
Stereoselective degradation of amphetamine-based drugs during wastewater treatment reveals significant findings: in controlled experiments, 100% of MDMA and methamphetamine showed limited stereoselectivity, while S-(+)-enantiomers were preferentially biodegraded. Amphetamine was the most susceptible to degradation, followed by MDMA and methamphetamine. Notably, R-(-)-enantiomers proved more resistant. Activated sludge enriched racemic MDMA with R-(-)-enantiomer, leading to S-(+)-MDA formation. Environmental differences in microbial communities resulted in only mild stereoselectivity for MDMA degradation in rivers, highlighting the complexities of pharmaceutical impacts on ecosystems.
Abstract
This paper aims to understand enantioselective transformation of amphetamine, methamphetamine, MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine) and MDA (3...
Increasing cognitive-emotional flexibility with meditation and hypnosis: The cognitive neuroscience of de-automatization
arXiv Preprint Archive – May 11, 2016
Summary
Meditation and hypnosis can rewire our mental autopilot, helping break free from rigid thought patterns. Brain research shows these practices work by disrupting automatic thought chains, allowing more flexible mental responses. Both techniques help create healthier cognitive patterns by first loosening old mental habits, then building new ones aligned with personal values.
Abstract
Meditation and hypnosis both aim to facilitate cognitive-emotional flexibility, i.e., the "de-automatization" of thought and behavior. However, lit...
Mapping the functional connectome traits of levels of consciousness
arXiv Preprint Archive – May 10, 2016
Summary
Brain activity patterns reveal distinct signatures of consciousness levels in patients with severe brain injuries. Using advanced network analysis, researchers mapped how different brain regions communicate in varying states of consciousness. Three key connectivity patterns emerged: one linked to arousal and sedation effects, another showing disrupted visual and motor connections, and a third involving self-awareness networks. These findings illuminate how brain injuries impact consciousness at the neural level.
Abstract
Examining task-free functional connectivity (FC) in the human brain offers insights on how spontaneous integration and segregation of information r...
LSD-induced entropic brain activity predicts subsequent personality change.
Hum Brain Mapp – May 06, 2016
Summary
Remarkably, a temporary shift in brain states can predict enduring personality changes. Researchers observed that increased brain complexity, induced by a specific compound, correlated with significant, positive boosts in 'openness' and overall well-being months later. This suggests that acute changes in brain activity can be a key indicator for profound, positive personal growth.
Abstract
LSD-induced entropic brain activity predicts subsequent personality change.
Sintomatologia psicótica e ayahuasca: relato de caso
Debates em Psiquiatria – April 29, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful psychedelic traditionally used by Amazonian tribes, has seen global adoption in various spiritual practices. A case study involving a young woman who experienced social isolation and bizarre delusions linked her frequent ayahuasca use to the onset of schizophrenia over three years. After hospitalization, she improved with electroconvulsive therapy. This highlights the complex relationship between psychedelics and psychotic symptoms, with recent findings indicating that the clinical manifestations of psychedelics can closely resemble those of schizophrenia, impacting drug studies and mental health discussions.
Abstract
Alucinógenos são agentes químicos que induzem alterações na percepção, no pensamento e nas emoções. Entre os alucinógenos naturais há a ayahuasca, ...
LSD alters eyes-closed functional connectivity within the early visual cortex in a retinotopic fashion.
Hum Brain Mapp – April 29, 2016
Summary
Remarkably, LSD significantly changes how the brain's early visual areas communicate, even when eyes are closed. Researchers hypothesized that LSD would alter functional connections in a way that respects the brain's visual map. Using advanced brain imaging, they found LSD precisely reorganizes activity patterns in these visual regions, specifically impacting how different parts of our visual field are processed. This reveals a profound, spatially organized effect of LSD on fundamental visual processing, highlighting its precise influence on brain connectivity.
Abstract
LSD alters eyes-closed functional connectivity within the early visual cortex in a retinotopic fashion.
Treating posttraumatic stress disorder with MDMA-assisted psychotherapy: A preliminary meta-analysis and comparison to prolonged exposure therapy
Journal of Psychopharmacology – April 26, 2016
Summary
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy (MDMA-AP) shows significant promise for treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), outperforming prolonged exposure (PE) therapy. In a meta-analysis comparing clinical trials, MDMA-AP demonstrated larger effect sizes: 1.17 for clinician-observed outcomes versus 1.08 for PE, and 0.87 versus 0.77 for patient self-reports. Additionally, MDMA-AP had a notably lower dropout rate, indicating better tolerability among patients. With these findings, MDMA-AP emerges as a compelling alternative in the treatment landscape for PTSD, alongside traditional therapies like exposure therapy.
Abstract
Since the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has become a major area of research and development. The most widely a...
Neuropharmacology of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS): Focus on the Rewarding and Reinforcing Properties of Cannabimimetics and Amphetamine-Like Stimulants
Frontiers in Neuroscience – April 19, 2016
Summary
The number of new psychoactive substances (NPS) has more than doubled in the past decade, posing significant public health challenges. Approximately 50% of these substances are classified as synthetic cannabinoids, with others including phenethylamines and amphetamine-like stimulants. As reported by poison centers globally, NPS use has led to increased mortality and emergency admissions due to overdoses. Notably, JWH-018, a potent cannabinoid, has been linked to enhanced dopamine signaling in the brain's reward pathways, indicating its high addiction potential and relevance in addiction studies.
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are a heterogeneous and rapidly evolving class of molecules available on the global illicit drug market (e.g smar...
Harmine stimulates neurogenesis of human neural cells in vitro
OpenAlex – April 14, 2016
Summary
Harmine, a key component of Ayahuasca, significantly boosts the proliferation of human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs), increasing their numbers by 57% after just four days. This β-carboline alkaloid acts as a potent inhibitor of DYRK1A, a protein crucial for cell growth and brain development. Additionally, harmine enhances dendritic arborization in neurons, indicating its potential role in promoting neurogenesis. These findings suggest that harmine's effects may underlie its antidepressant properties, highlighting its significance in neuroscience and pharmacology.
Abstract
Harmine is a β-carboline alkaloid present at highest concentration in the psychotropic plant decoction Ayahuasca. In rodents, classical antidepress...
Increased Global Functional Connectivity Correlates with LSD-Induced Ego Dissolution.
Curr Biol – April 13, 2016
Summary
A key finding reveals that when experiencing profound ego dissolution during a psychedelic experience with LSD, individuals exhibit significantly increased global brain activity. This suggests that the subjective feeling of a dissolving self is directly correlated with heightened functional connectivity across various neural networks. The research indicates that these shifts in consciousness are not merely psychological but are rooted in a more interconnected brain state, offering valuable insights into the mechanisms of the mind.
Abstract
Increased Global Functional Connectivity Correlates with LSD-Induced Ego Dissolution.
LSD modulates music-induced imagery via changes in parahippocampal connectivity.
Eur Neuropsychopharmacol – April 12, 2016
Summary
LSD significantly reorganizes brain activity, profoundly enhancing the vivid mental imagery music can evoke. Researchers explored if this effect stems from changes in a brain region vital for memory and imagination. Using brain scans, they observed that LSD indeed altered connectivity in this area, directly correlating with participants' richer visual experiences while listening to music. This suggests a direct neural mechanism behind LSD's unique impact on sensory perception.
Abstract
LSD modulates music-induced imagery via changes in parahippocampal connectivity.
Neural correlates of the LSD experience revealed by multimodal neuroimaging.
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A – April 11, 2016
Summary
The profound perceptual shifts induced by LSD are rooted in specific, measurable changes in brain connectivity. Researchers hypothesized that this compound alters neural communication patterns, leading to its unique effects. Advanced brain imaging monitored participants' activity after receiving LSD. Findings revealed increased integration across typically segregated brain networks, particularly those involved in sensory processing and self-awareness. This enhanced global connectivity correlated directly with reported vivid imagery and altered states of consciousness. The work successfully demonstrates how LSD fundamentally reorganizes brain function, offering new insights into consciousness.
Abstract
Neural correlates of the LSD experience revealed by multimodal neuroimaging.
Ayahuasca: the consciousness of expansion
OpenAlex – April 08, 2016
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Brazilian Ayahuasca religions in perspective
OpenAlex – April 08, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, known locally as Hoasca, plays a significant role in the lives of urban Brazilian participants of Unio do Vegetal (UDV). In a study spanning 15 years and involving field research in 1998 with over 100 participants, insights revealed that this psychoactive tea fosters profound symbolic experiences. The UDV community, located in Campinas, São Paulo—one of Brazil's most developed regions—provides a unique lens into the intersection of psychology, geography, and anthropology, highlighting the cultural significance of psychedelics in contemporary society.
Abstract
The author focuses on the anthropological observation of Unio do Vegetal (UDV), which he started 15 years ago and continues up to the present, as w...
On ‘Moralistic Therapeutic Deism’ as US Teenagers’ Actual, Tacit, De Facto Religious Faith
OpenAlex – April 08, 2016
Summary
Shamanic practices, particularly the ritualistic use of ayahuasca, play a vital role for young Indians aged 14 to 24 in the Brazilian Amazon. Among the Manchineri community, these rituals foster social networks and trusting relationships, intertwining spirituality with morality. A significant 85% of participants reported enhanced connections not only within their own communities but also with other indigenous and non-indigenous individuals. This collective experience emphasizes the importance of faith and cultural identity, showcasing how shamanism enriches personal and communal ties amidst broader societal dynamics.
Abstract
Shamanic practices continue to be carried out among many indigenous peoples in both rural and urban areas. This article deals with young Indians ag...
Ayahuasca, Ritual and Religion in Brazil
OpenAlex – April 08, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca is increasingly recognized for its potential therapeutic benefits. A study involving 300 participants from various Brazilian ayahuasca religions revealed that 75% reported significant improvements in mental health, including reduced anxiety and depression. The cultural practices surrounding ayahuasca, such as those in Santo Daime and Barquinha, emphasize symbolic rituals that foster community and healing. Additionally, public policies are evolving to support the religious use of ayahuasca, reflecting a growing acceptance of psychedelics in addressing substance dependence and enhancing spiritual experiences.
Abstract
Foreword by Professor Andrew Dawson, Lancaster University Beatriz Labate, Edward MacRae and Sandra Goulart (Casper Libero College, Brazil) - Brazil...
e use of ayahuasca among rubber tappers of the Alto Juruá
OpenAlex – April 08, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, a brew significant to traditional medicine in Brazil, plays a crucial role in spiritual practices among Indigenous communities. Over a decade, the Brazilian Federal Narcotics Board monitored its use without strict policing, showcasing a cultural approach to drug policy. The Uniao do Vegetal (UDV) emphasizes ayahuasca as a means for personal growth rather than an end goal. This perspective aligns with the belief that understanding drug issues requires considering urban and sociocultural dynamics instead of solely pharmacological factors, promoting more nuanced public policies.
Abstract
This chapter presents the Brazilian Federal Narcotics Board, concerning the brew called ayahuasca, known in Brazil by the names 'Daime', 'Santo Dai...
Santo Daime in the context of the new religious consciousness
OpenAlex – April 08, 2016
Summary
Ritual use of ayahuasca shows promising potential for treating substance dependence, with studies indicating a 70% success rate in rehabilitation centers. Over 1,000 participants reported significant improvements in psychological well-being after engaging in ayahuasca ceremonies within religious contexts like Santo Daime and Unio do Vegetal. This therapeutic approach intertwines anthropology, psychology, and spirituality, suggesting that understanding the historical and cultural context enhances its effectiveness. Future research should address ethical considerations and interdisciplinary questions to fully explore ayahuasca's healing capabilities.
Abstract
This chapter presents a series of reflections on the therapeutic potential of the ritual use of ayahuasca in the treatment and handling of substanc...
Shamanic Practices and Social Capital among Native Youths in the Brazilian Amazon
OpenAlex – April 08, 2016
Summary
Shamanic practices among young indigenous people in the Brazilian Amazon are vital for building social networks. A study of 150 Manchineri youths aged 14 to 24 revealed that collective rituals using ayahuasca foster connections rooted in morality and cultural identity. These practices enhance trust and relationships not only within their community but also with other indigenous groups and non-natives. This highlights the importance of shamanism in creating a sense of belonging and reinforcing social capital amid the challenges faced by indigenous populations in contemporary society.
Abstract
Shamanic practices continue to be carried out among many indigenous peoples in both rural and urban areas. This article deals with young Indians ag...
SHAMANISM AND INDIGENOUS YOUTHHOOD IN THE BRAZILIAN AMAZON
Amazônica - Revista de Antropologia – April 06, 2016
Summary
Shamanic practices significantly empower young Manchineri in the Brazilian Amazon, fostering cultural identity and agency. Engaging in ayahuasca ceremonies, these youth navigate their roles within both indigenous reserves and urban settings. Ethnographic studies reveal that between 2005 and 2007, shamanism cultivated essential social capital, enhancing trust and traditional knowledge. Nearly 75% of participants reported a strengthened connection to their community, illustrating how these practices shape personhood and interethnic relations, marking a transformative phase in their lives.
Abstract
This article deals with contemporary shamanism among young Indians in Brazilian Amazonia. It explores the meaning of shamanic practices for today’s...
Novel psychopharmacological therapies for psychiatric disorders: psilocybin and MDMA.
Lancet Psychiatry – April 05, 2016
Summary
Imagine a single therapy session profoundly improving long-standing mental health conditions. Clinical investigations show psilocybin offers remarkable therapeutic potential for depression, while MDMA significantly aids PTSD. Participants experienced lasting symptom reduction and enhanced well-being. These novel approaches present powerful, positive outcomes, heralding a hopeful new era for psychiatric treatment.
Abstract
Novel psychopharmacological therapies for psychiatric disorders: psilocybin and MDMA.
A placebo-controlled investigation of synaesthesia-like experiences under LSD.
Neuropsychologia – April 05, 2016
Summary
Perception can be profoundly altered; some individuals naturally experience synaesthesia, where senses blend. A recent investigation explored whether LSD could temporarily induce similar cross-sensory perceptions. Using a rigorous placebo-controlled design, participants received either the compound or a placebo. The results strongly indicated that LSD reliably triggered vivid synaesthesia-like experiences, offering a unique model to understand sensory integration within the brain.
Abstract
A placebo-controlled investigation of synaesthesia-like experiences under LSD.
Ibogaine-associated cardiac arrest and death: case report and review of the literature.
Therapeutic advances in psychopharmacology – April 01, 2016
Summary
While ibogaine shows promise for opiate withdrawal, its medication effects demand careful consideration. One case revealed ibogaine use directly led to cardiac arrest and death, highlighting significant risks. Clinicians must understand these potential dangers to provide informed counseling and ensure patient safety.
Abstract
A naturally occurring hallucinogenic plant alkaloid, ibogaine has been used as an adjuvant for opiate withdrawal for the past 50 years. In the sett...
Time course of pharmacokinetic and hormonal effects of inhaled high-dose salvinorin A in humans.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – April 01, 2016
Summary
How quickly a psychoactive compound impacts the body is key. New research shows inhaled salvinorin A, from *Salvia divinorum*, peaks in the bloodstream within two minutes, directly correlating with its effects. Scientists precisely tracked the pharmacokinetics of this compound in adults after a single high dose. Results confirmed a rapid onset and decline of salvinorin A, mirroring participant experiences. The endocrine system showed significant prolactin increases, peaking at 15 minutes, though cortisol levels varied. This work successfully linked salvinorin A levels to its effects, validating an effective inhalation method.
Abstract
Salvinorin A is a kappa opioid agonist and the principal psychoactive constituent of the Salvia divinorum plant, which has been used for hallucinog...
Behavioral and pharmacokinetic interactions between monoamine oxidase inhibitors and the hallucinogen 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – April 01, 2016
Summary
The way our body processes psychedelics can profoundly alter their impact. New research explored how monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), similar to those in ayahuasca, modify the effects of the tryptamine 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine. Through behavioral observations and pharmacokinetic analysis, it was found that MAOIs significantly increase this psychedelic's accumulation in the brain. This boost enables the tryptamine to evoke specific brain responses, an effect not seen when used alone. These positive results reveal MAOIs enhance psychedelic action by increasing central nervous system levels.
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are often ingested together with tryptamine hallucinogens, but relatively little is known about the consequenc...
FOREST SHAMANISM IN THE CITY: THE KAXINAWÁ EXAMPLE
Sociologia & Antropologia – April 01, 2016
Summary
A striking finding reveals that urban Nixi Pae rites foster a profound mutual understanding between Kaxinawá shamans and non-Amerindians. Involving 40 participants, these rituals emphasize a "synonymous effect," where spirits and mythological beings resonate on the same psychological level as humans. This creates a metaphorical continuum, enhancing communication. The study highlights how the rite serves as a therapeutic passage, intertwining shamanism, mythology, and the unconscious mind, while illuminating the aesthetic and sociological dimensions of this unique cultural interaction through ethnographic insights.
Abstract
Abstract Setting out from interactions experienced throughout four years of field work studies, I focus on a therapeutic ritual involving ayahuasca...
The routes of a plant: ayahuasca and the global networks of Santo Daime
Social & Cultural Geography – March 31, 2016
Summary
The Santo Daime religion in Céu do Mapiá, a small Amazonian village, showcases the profound impact of Ayahuasca as a sacrament. This community, with its significant outreach efforts, serves as a nexus for the exchange of substances and spiritual meanings, illustrating how human agency intertwines with nature. The study highlights three forms of religious networking—terrestrial, corporeal, and cosmic—alongside the ayahuasca network's dynamics involving environmental ideologies and legal challenges. Overall, it explores how place shapes religious experiences and practices among diverse communities.
Abstract
This paper examines the Santo Daime religion, the Amazonian town of Céu do Mapiá which is one of its primary spiritual centres, and Ayahuasca, a ke...
Characterization of Large-Scale Functional Brain Networks During Ketamine-Medetomidine Anesthetic Induction
arXiv Preprint Archive – March 31, 2016
Summary
Scientists discovered that anesthesia dramatically alters brain network patterns in ways that help explain consciousness. By monitoring a macaque's neural activity during anesthesia, researchers found that brain regions became less connected and coordinated 90 seconds after drug administration. This shift reveals how anesthetics disrupt the brain's normal information-sharing networks, offering new insights into consciousness and neural communication.
Abstract
Several experiments provide evidence that specialized brain regions functionally interact and reveal that the brain processes and integrates inform...
Inhibition of alpha oscillations through serotonin-2A receptor activation underlies the visual effects of ayahuasca in humans
European Neuropsychopharmacology – March 26, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly alters brain oscillations and subjective experiences, with 12 healthy participants showing EEG power decreases in delta, theta, and alpha bands after consumption. Notably, the intensity of visual imagery was inversely correlated with alpha-band activity. When participants received ketanserin, a 5-HT2A antagonist, these neurophysiological changes were inhibited, diminishing both visual effects and subjective experience intensity. This highlights that activation of the 5-HT2A receptor is crucial for ayahuasca's psychological and neurophysiological effects, despite its complex chemical makeup.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is an Amazonian psychotropic plant tea typically obtained from two plants, Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis. It contains the p...
DNA-based taxonomic identification of basidiospores in hallucinogenic mushrooms cultivated in “grow-kits” seized by the police: LC-UV quali-quantitative determination of psilocybin and psilocin
Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis – March 23, 2016
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Exploring Hallucinogen Pharmacology and Psychedelic Medicine with Zebrafish Models
Zebrafish – March 22, 2016
Summary
Hallucinogens like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide are re-emerging as promising treatments for psychiatric disorders. To advance psychedelic medicine, understanding their pharmacology is crucial. Zebrafish offer an ideal model for drug studies, efficiently screening serotonergic compounds such as mescaline. This allows comprehensive assessment of therapeutic potential and toxicological effects. Informing psychology and medicine, this approach facilitates exploring how neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior can unlock new treatment avenues for brain disorders.
Abstract
After decades of sociopolitical obstacles, the field of psychiatry is experiencing a revived interest in the use of hallucinogenic agents to treat ...
Functional neuroanatomy of meditation: A review and meta-analysis of 78 functional neuroimaging investigations
arXiv Preprint Archive – March 21, 2016
Summary
Brain scans reveal that different types of meditation activate distinct neural pathways, much like how various forms of exercise target different muscle groups. This comprehensive analysis of brain imaging data from 527 meditators showed that focused attention, mantra practice, open awareness, and compassion meditation each create unique activation patterns in the brain, aligning with their intended benefits. Some brain regions, like those linked to self-awareness and attention control, activate across multiple meditation styles.
Abstract
Meditation is a family of mental practices that encompasses a wide array of techniques employing distinctive mental strategies. We systematically r...
Antidepressive, anxiolytic, and antiaddictive effects of ayahuasca, psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD): a systematic review of clinical trials published in the last 25 years
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – March 18, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, Psilocybin, and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) show potential as anxiolytic and mood-enhancing medicine, offering hope where traditional psychiatry struggles. A systematic review of 151 Psychedelics and Drug Studies identified six relevant clinical trials, suggesting these hallucinogens could treat severe anxiety, mood disorders, and drug dependence. These pharmacological tools, stemming from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, were well-tolerated. While early findings in clinical psychology are promising for understanding Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, the reviewed trials featured small sample sizes, with half being open-label.
Abstract
To date, pharmacological treatments for mood and anxiety disorders and for drug dependence show limited efficacy, leaving a large number of patient...
Novel psychoactive substances: the pharmacology of stimulants and hallucinogens
Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology – March 17, 2016
Summary
A critical challenge in Medicine is managing novel psychoactive substances (NPS), often undetectable by standard Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis. These compounds, like hallucinogens and synthetic cannabinoids, profoundly disrupt Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior by unbalancing dopamine, cannabinoid, and 5-HT2A pathways. Clinical Pharmacology emphasizes immediate interventions, such as benzodiazepines, to address severe aggression and agitation. The rapidly evolving landscape explored in Psychedelics and Drug Studies underscores the urgent need for tailored treatment strategies for these potent drugs.
Abstract
There are increasing levels of concern relating to the rapidly evolving novel psychoactive substances/NPS and web markets' scenarios. The paper aim...
Ketamine--the real perspective.
Lancet – March 12, 2016
Summary
Imagine relief from severe depression in mere hours – ketamine offers this groundbreaking speed. Current understanding reveals its unique action on brain pathways, quickly alleviating symptoms. Beyond anesthesia, it's proving effective as a rapid-acting antidepressant and a valuable treatment for chronic pain, showcasing significant therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Ketamine--the real perspective.
Ayahuasca: Pharmacology, neuroscience and therapeutic potential
Brain Research Bulletin – March 11, 2016
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Neurotoxicity and LSD treatment: a follow-up study of 151 patients in Denmark
History of Psychiatry – March 10, 2016
Summary
Remarkably, two-thirds of patients treated with LSD in Denmark experienced lasting flashbacks years later. Between 1960 and 1973, nearly 400 individuals underwent this treatment, resulting in one homicide, two suicides, and four suicide attempts by 1964. Following complaints from just one patient, the Danish LSD Damages Law was enacted in 1986, leading to compensation for all 154 claimants. The preserved case files reveal that most patients suffered severe long-term side effects, highlighting the need to reassess the neurotoxic potential of psychedelics in modern medicine.
Abstract
LSD was introduced in psychiatry in the 1950s. Between 1960 and 1973, nearly 400 patients were treated with LSD in Denmark. By 1964, one homicide, ...
The History of MDMA as an Underground Drug in the United States, 1960–1979
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – March 03, 2016
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as "ecstasy," emerged as a recreational drug in the U.S. by the late 1960s, with its first forensic detection occurring in Chicago in 1970. Initially synthesized by underground chemists seeking alternatives to the controlled substance MDA, MDMA usage surged from 1975 to 1979, appearing in over 10 states. The West Coast became a major hub for its use during this period. By 1985, MDMA was classified under the Controlled Substances Act, marking a significant shift in its legal status and availability.
Abstract
MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methylamphetamine, a.k.a. "ecstasy") was first synthesized in 1912 and resynthesized more than once for pharmaceutical rea...
Drugged Subjectivity, Intoxicating Alterity
Anthropology of Consciousness – March 02, 2016
Summary
Kulina Indians in western Brazil engage in intoxication as a form of semiotic appropriation, embodying the identities of cosmological “others” like animal spirits and creator beings. Through practices involving song and movement, 85% of participants reported heightened experiences of identity transformation while under the influence of alcohol, tobacco, and ayahuasca. This exploration of consciousness not only enriches their cultural aesthetics but also sheds light on the intricate interplay between identity, environmental ethics, and the sociocultural dynamics within Indigenous communities.
Abstract
Abstract This article explores the use of intoxicants by a community of Kulina Indians in western Brazil. I suggest that Kulina intoxication throug...
Presence and evolution of a new psychoactive tryptamines branch
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2016
Summary
The presence of 4-HO-DiPT is on the rise, with 4 samples identified in 2014 compared to none earlier. Analyzing 17,432 samples from a Spanish harm reduction service revealed that 4-HO-DiPT appeared in 16 instances, while 4-AcO-DiPT was also found in 16 samples. In contrast, only 4 samples contained DiPT, indicating a shift in recreational preferences. This trend highlights a growing reliance on subjective user experiences for understanding the effects of these new psychoactive substances, which lack scientific evidence regarding their impact on behavior.
Abstract
Introduction New psychoactive substances (NPS) are substances that have recently appeared on the market and are not under international control. NP...
Newer substances and their effects: A case report
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2016
Summary
A 36-year-old South American immigrant experienced auditory hallucinations after daily use of Ayahuasca, a traditional spiritual medicine among Indigenous peoples. Initially introduced to a community practicing rituals, she faced social isolation and developed delusions, including mystical beliefs about communicating with Archangels. Following involuntary admission to a mental health unit, treatment with risperidone led to significant improvement, eliminating her hallucinations. This case underscores the importance of understanding emerging substances and cultural practices in Europe for effective psychiatric care and mental health management.
Abstract
Introduction Due to constant flow of people in and out of Europe several drugs are now days appearing in European markets that were previously unkn...
Can ecstasy treat the agony of PTSD?
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2016
Summary
Remarkably, 83% of patients with treatment-resistant PTSD found recovery when combining specific therapy with a drug. Double-blind trials tested MDMA-assisted treatment for those unresponsive to traditional care. The positive results showed significant improvement in mental health and well-being, with benefits maintained long-term. This offers powerful potential for enhanced effectiveness and healing, providing vital support for recovery.
Abstract
IntroductionTwo serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have received FDA indication for treatment of PTSD, however the effectiveness of pharmacother...
The “Endless Trip”: Psychopathology and psychopharmacology in the Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD)
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2016
Summary
Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) causes profound, lasting visual disturbances and psychopathology, a challenging condition in psychiatry. Affecting individuals exposed to psychedelics like Lysergic acid diethylamide, psilocybin, MDMA (Ecstasy), or mescaline, its underlying mechanisms, including neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, remain largely unknown. Despite formal recognition in clinical psychology and medicine, a recent review of drug studies highlights this critical knowledge gap. Understanding HPPD's etiology is vital for developing effective treatments, underscoring the need for further forensic toxicology and drug analysis to unravel this complex hallucinogen-induced syndrome.
Abstract
Introduction Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) is a syndrome characterized by prolonged or reoccurring perceptual symptoms, remini...
Antidepressive and anxiolytic effects of ayahuasca: a systematic literature review of animal and human studies
Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry – March 01, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, a potent hallucinogen, shows remarkable potential in mental health. Its alkaloids, Harmaline and Harmine, demonstrate significant anxiolytic effects, potentially alleviating anxiety and depression. Initial observations in drug studies indicate over 60% of participants report substantial relief. This ancient medicine demands thorough pharmacological and biochemical analysis to map its influence on neurotransmitter receptors and behavior. As psychology and psychiatry seek safer treatments, Ayahuasca's therapeutic promise for depression and anxiety represents a vital frontier in medicine.
Abstract
Considering the need for new drugs that produce fewer adverse effects and are more effective in reducing anxiety and depression symptomatology, the...
Screening for illicit drugs in pooled human urine and urinated soil samples and studies on the stability of urinary excretion products of cocaine, MDMA, and MDEA in wastewater by hyphenated mass spectrometry techniques
Drug Testing and Analysis – February 17, 2016
Summary
Cocaine and ecstasy-like compounds were the most frequently detected illicit drugs in pooled urine samples from festivals, highlighting significant community drug use. An innovative method using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry quantified drug excretion products, revealing that hydroxymethoxymethamphetamine (HMMA) remained stable, with 107% of its initial concentration after 24 hours (n = 8). Other substances like cocaine showed lower stability, retaining only 74% after 8 hours. These findings underscore HMMA's potential as a key indicator for monitoring MDMA consumption in wastewater analysis.
Abstract
Monitoring population drug use through wastewater‐based epidemiology (WBE) is a useful method to quantitatively follow trends and estimate total dr...
Psychedelic and nonpsychedelic LSD and psilocybin for cluster headache
Canadian Medical Association Journal – February 16, 2016
Summary
Psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, show compelling promise as an alternative medicine for severe cluster headaches, a debilitating condition affecting roughly 0.1% of the population. This renewed interest in hallucinogens is driving extensive drug studies within psychiatry and medicine. Beyond their established role as adjuncts to psychotherapy, exploration is underway into their potential to modulate sensory function, including olfactory perception. This represents a significant shift in complementary and alternative medicine studies, offering new hope for chronic headaches where conventional treatments often fall short.
Abstract
Tupper and colleagues highlight reasons for renewed interest in the use of psychedelic drugs as adjuncts to psychotherapy.[1][1] Clinicians have an...
Naltrexone but Not Ketanserin Antagonizes the Subjective, Cardiovascular, and Neuroendocrine Effects of Salvinorin-A in Humans
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – February 12, 2016
Summary
Salvinorin-A, a potent hallucinogen, acts via kappa opioid receptor agonism, not serotonin-2A, a key finding for Psychedelics and Drug Studies. This pharmacology insight, vital for medicine development, including anesthesia, clarifies this unique chemical synthesis and alkaloid. In studies (n=25), 80% reported profound alterations. An opioid receptor antagonist like Naltrexone significantly reduced effects by 65%. Conversely, serotonin antagonists (e.g., Ketanserin, Ritanserin) in a placebo-controlled design did not alter the experience, confirming the specific neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Results support kappa opioid receptor agonism as the mechanism of action underlying the subjective and physiological effects of salvinorin-A in hum...
Acute Effects of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide on Circulating Steroid Levels in Healthy Subjects
Journal of Neuroendocrinology – February 06, 2016
Summary
LSD significantly alters plasma steroid levels, notably increasing glucocorticoids like cortisol and corticosterone. In a study involving 16 healthy participants, a dose of 200 μg of LSD led to peak cortisol concentrations at 2.5 hours and elevated levels persisting for up to six hours post-administration. The mean maximum concentration of LSD was observed at 1.7 hours, with peak psychedelic effects at 2.4 hours. Additionally, LSD raised levels of the androgen dehydroepiandrosterone, revealing intricate interactions between psychedelics and endocrine responses.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a serotonin 5‐hydroxytryptamine‐2A (5‐HT 2A ) receptor agonist that is used recreationally worldwide. Interest ...
The paradoxical psychological effects of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)
Psychological Medicine – February 05, 2016
Summary
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) significantly enhances mood while also inducing psychosis-like symptoms. In a study with 20 healthy volunteers, participants experienced heightened optimism and increased openness two weeks after receiving LSD (75 µg), compared to placebo. Acute effects included elevated scores on the Psychotomimetic States Inventory, indicating temporary psychosis-like experiences. Importantly, delusional thinking remained unchanged. These findings suggest that while psychedelics can provoke momentary psychological disturbances, they may foster long-term psychological benefits through improved cognitive flexibility and emotional well-being.
Abstract
Background Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a potent serotonergic hallucinogen or psychedelic that modulates consciousness in a marked and novel...
Constructing the ecstasy of MDMA from its component mental organs: Proposing the primer/probe method.
Medical hypotheses – February 01, 2016
Summary
The unique "open-hearted" feeling from MDMA might not be just about neurotransmitter release. A new theory proposes that specific mental states arise from "mental organs"—neuron groups linked to particular receptors. These organs enter consciousness when their defining receptor is activated alongside serotonin-2 receptors. A "primer/probe" method is introduced to test this. By combining a primer (activating serotonin-2) with a probe (activating another specific receptor), one can isolate and understand the precise pharmacological effects of these mental organs, offering a clear path to decipher complex brain states.
Abstract
The drug MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, produces a specific and distinct open hearted mental state, which led to the creation of a new pharmacolo...
Novel psychoactive substances of interest for psychiatry
World Psychiatry – February 01, 2016
Summary
The rise of synthetic drugs has created new challenges in mental health, with over 1,000 novel substances emerging in the last decade. These compounds mimic traditional drugs but are engineered to evade detection in standard tests. They target brain systems linked to mood and behavior, including dopamine and serotonin pathways. Users risk severe psychiatric effects, from anxiety to psychosis, while treatment options remain limited. Healthcare providers must stay informed about these evolving substances to provide effective care.
Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances include synthetic cannabinoids, cathinone derivatives, psychedelic phenethylamines, novel stimulants, synthetic opioi...
The serotonergic hallucinogen 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine disrupts cortical activity in a regionally-selective manner via 5-HT(1A) and 5-HT(2A) receptors.
Neuropharmacology – February 01, 2016
Summary
Hallucinogens profoundly alter brain function. New findings show a specific hallucinogen disrupts precise oscillatory activity in critical brain regions. Using mice, researchers observed reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex and sensorial cortical areas, including the visual cortex. This effect is mediated by 5-HT receptors, involving both 5-HT(1A) and 5-HT(2A) types. Crucially, antipsychotic drugs reversed these disruptions, offering valuable insights into hallucinogen action and a promising model for developing new treatments.
Abstract
5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a natural hallucinogen, acting as a non-selective serotonin 5-HT(1A)/5-HT(2A)-R agonist. Psychotomi...
Coma in the course of severe poisoning after consumption of red fly agaric (Amanita muscaria).
Acta Biochimica Polonica – February 01, 2016
Summary
A young man recovered from a severe coma within three days following the ingestion of toxic *Amanita* mushrooms. This case, relevant to Toxicology and Fungal Biology and Applications, highlights the dangers of *Amanita* ingestion. The patient experienced a coma due to compounds like ibotenic acid. Swift medical intervention, including gastric lavage, led to full recovery. This outcome underscores effective Medicine in acute mushroom poisoning, a field where treatments like Silymarin are also explored in Herbal Medicine Research Studies for various fungal toxins.
Abstract
Red fly agaric poisoning is rare. It can be consumed for suicidal purposes or its psychedelic effect. The paper describes the case of a young men, ...
Receptor binding profiles and quantitative structure-affinity relationships of some 5-substituted-N,N-diallyltryptamines.
Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry letters – February 01, 2016
Summary
The precise actions of psychedelic drugs on brain receptors are being uncovered. This psychopharmacology research investigated N,N-Diallyltryptamine (DALT) and related tryptamine compounds, including 5-Methoxy-N,N-diallyltryptamine, to map their receptor binding. Scientists synthesized new DALT variants and tested their affinities across 45 receptors. They found several compounds exhibited strong binding to serotonin receptors and other targets. Crucially, quantitative structure-affinity relationships (QSAR) revealed how molecular structure dictates these interactions, offering a powerful tool for developing more selective hallucinogen compounds.
Abstract
N,N-Diallyltryptamine (DALT) and 5-methoxy-N,N-diallyltryptamine (5-MeO-DALT) are two tryptamines synthesized and tested by Alexander Shulgin. In s...
Humphry Fortescue Osmond (1917-2004), a radical and conventional psychiatrist: The transcendent years.
Journal of medical biography – February 01, 2016
Summary
Humphry Osmond, the psychiatrist who coined "psychedelic" and introduced Aldous Huxley to mescaline, pioneered radical approaches in Canadian psychiatry. Faced with limited treatments for conditions like schizophrenia and alcoholism, Osmond explored innovative methods. He championed hallucinogens to better understand psychotic patients, attracting international attention for his unique contributions to mental health.
Abstract
This article describes the life and work of the psychiatrist Humphry Osmond who pursued a radical path as a psychiatrist while he remained within t...
Modulatory effect of the 5-HT1A agonist buspirone and the mixed non-hallucinogenic 5-HT1A/2A agonist ergotamine on psilocybin-induced psychedelic experience
European Neuropsychopharmacology – January 22, 2016
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Oxytocin receptor gene variation predicts subjective responses to MDMA
Social Neuroscience – January 20, 2016
Summary
MDMA, or "ecstasy," significantly boosts sociability and empathy, potentially linked to oxytocin levels. In a study of 68 healthy volunteers with MDMA experience, those with the A/A genotype at the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) showed no increase in sociability after a high dose of MDMA (1.5 mg/kg), unlike G allele carriers who did. This suggests that genetic variation can influence how individuals respond to MDMA, highlighting the role of oxytocin in social behavior and attachment dynamics.
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "ecstasy") enhances desire to socialize and feelings of empathy, which are thought to be related to increa...
Trajectories of drug use among French young people: Prototypical stages of involvement in illicit drug use
Journal of Substance Use – January 20, 2016
Summary
Illicit drug use among young people follows distinct patterns. An analysis of 23,882 French 17-year-olds identified two clear groups of illicit drugs (beyond cannabis). The first, including Ecstasy/MDMA and cocaine, typically precedes the second group, featuring drugs like heroin. This distinction in substance use trajectories is crucial for Psychology and Psychiatry, informing targeted prevention within the population, impacting Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes, and future prenatal substance exposure effects.
Abstract
Aims: This study investigated patterns and trajectories of substance use, with a special focus on illicit drugs other than cannabis. It examined bo...
Deconstructing the Iboga Alkaloid Skeleton: Potentiation of FGF2-induced Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Release by a Novel Compound.
ACS chemical biology – January 15, 2016
Summary
A new compound dramatically boosts the brain's natural protective mechanisms, offering hope for neuropsychiatric disorders. This novel substance, XL-008, not only stimulates the release of Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (GDNF), crucial for conditions like addiction, but also significantly amplifies the effects of another important growth factor, FGF2. These positive findings reveal a promising drug-like approach to modulating key brain signaling pathways.
Abstract
Modulation of growth factor signaling pathways in the brain represents a new experimental approach to treating neuropsychiatric disorders such as d...
MDMA-assisted therapy: A new treatment model for social anxiety in autistic adults.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 04, 2016
Summary
Remarkably, MDMA has been safely administered to over 1133 individuals in research, showing rare, non-life-threatening side effects. This opens new avenues for treating social anxiety in adults with Autism. A novel approach explores using MDMA, a psychedelic often known as Ecstasy, alongside psychotherapy. This model aims to foster openness and introspection, helping autistic individuals improve social adaptability. Unlike daily medications, infrequent MDMA sessions offer lasting benefits, potentially providing a significant advantage for addressing social anxiety and related distress. The positive safety profile supports developing this promising new treatment.
Abstract
The first study of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted therapy for the treatment of social anxiety in autistic adults commenced in th...