1623 results for "LSD"
B-302 Psychedelics and Dissociative Anesthetics: Concentrations in Suspected Impaired Driving Investigations, 2024
Clinical Chemistry – October 01, 2025
Summary
In 2024, psychedelic and dissociative drugs were detected in 328 suspected driving under the influence cases. Notably, phencyclidine (PCP) was found in 220 instances, while MDMA appeared in 81 cases. Ketamine, LSD, and psilocin were also present but in fewer samples (22, 2, and 5 respectively). Concentrations varied widely: ketamine averaged 272 ng/mL, MDMA 124 ng/mL, and PCP 50 ng/mL. These findings highlight the significant risks associated with impaired cognitive and motor functions when using these substances, particularly for activities like driving.
Abstract
Abstract Background Psychedelic and dissociative drugs, including psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (...
Adverse events associated with classic psychedelics and MDMA: a real-world population-based study using the WHO pharmacovigilance database (VigiBase)
Psychiatry Research – December 29, 2025
Summary
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and MDMA (Ecstasy) carry significant risks for substance abuse and addiction, a global pharmacovigilance analysis reveals. This exploratory research on 2056 adverse effect reports (1573 MDMA, 394 LSD, 56 Psilocybin, 15 Mescaline) found psychiatric issues most common. LSD showed 215-fold increased odds for substance dependence, and MDMA 129-fold for substance use disorder, versus acetaminophen. Overdoses were rare (1.1-1.7%). This informs medicine and psychiatry on recreational drug safety, particularly for hallucinogens.
Abstract
Psychedelic use has greatly increased within clinical and recreational settings over recent years. While demonstrating a favorable safety profile w...
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide and Psilocybin for the Management of Patients with Persistent Pain: a Potential Role?
Pain Management – May 01, 2018
Summary
Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) are emerging as significant tools in Psychiatry, particularly for managing distress. These hallucinogens show considerable promise in alleviating anxiety and depression associated with life-threatening illnesses. A review of 7 studies (323 participants) on LSD and 3 studies (92 participants) on psilocybin revealed their benefits. Administered professionally, these substances are generally safe. Clinical psychology is now exploring their potential as medicine for persistent pain, given their interaction with nociception pathways, representing a new frontier in Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Recently, there has been interest in lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin for depression, anxiety and fear of death in terminal illness....
Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method for the simultaneous analysis of multiple hallucinogens, chlorpheniramine, ketamine, ritalinic acid, and metabolites, in urine.
Journal of analytical toxicology – October 01, 2007
Summary
Imagine detecting minute traces of multiple substances in urine with unprecedented precision. Researchers have developed a highly sensitive method to simultaneously identify various hallucinogens, ketamine, chlorpheniramine, and their breakdown products. Using advanced liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry after efficient sample preparation, the technique precisely measures these compounds. It boasts excellent accuracy, detecting LSD at just 0.05 ng/mL, and efficiently extracts over 87% of target compounds. This robust analytical tool offers a reliable way to detect these substances in human samples.
Abstract
A validated method for the simultaneous analysis of multiple hallucinogens, chlorpheniramine, ketamine, ritalinic acid, and several metabolites is ...
Neuropsychological Functioning in Users of Serotonergic Psychedelics – A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Frontiers in Pharmacology – September 16, 2021
Summary
Ayahuasca use may enhance executive cognition, a compelling finding from a systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 studies (N=539) identified via databases like MEDLINE. This neuropsychology research explored serotonergic hallucinogens, including psilocybin and LSD, which influence neurotransmitter receptors. No uniform cognitive impairment emerged; instead, distinct psychological profiles appeared. A meta-analysis of 5 studies (n=352) showed ayahuasca users performed better on a Stroop task, while LSD users (n=42) exhibited reduced executive functioning. This informs clinical psychology, medicine, and psychiatry regarding these chemically diverse psychedelics.
Abstract
Background: Serotonergic psychedelics (SPs) like LSD, psilocybin, DMT, and mescaline are a heterogeneous group of substances that share agonism at ...
Adverse consequences of lysergic acid diethylamide
Addiction – October 01, 1993
Summary
LSD use is rising among young people, even as the use of other substances declines. Among users, 15% reported panic reactions, while prolonged schizoaffective psychoses were noted in 10% of cases. Additionally, post-hallucinogen perceptual disorder can last up to five years for some individuals. Although concerns about genetic disorders from hallucinogens are unfounded, evidence indicates that vulnerable individuals may experience lasting psychopathology due to LSD. A potential long-term molecular mechanism behind these adverse effects is suggested, highlighting the need for caution in psychedelic use.
Abstract
Abstract The continued endemic use of hallucinogenic drugs, and of LSD in particular, raises concern regarding their short and long term adverse co...
Psychedelic-like effects induced by 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine, lysergic acid diethylamide, and psilocybin in male and female C57BL/6J mice.
Psychopharmacology – May 17, 2025
Summary
Female mice show stronger responses to classic psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin, revealing important sex-based differences in how these compounds affect the brain. Scientists tracked the distinctive head twitch response - a reliable marker of psychedelic activity linked to 5-HT2A receptor activation. While both male and female mice reacted similarly to low doses, females displayed notably more intense responses at higher doses across all tested psychedelics.
Abstract
The head twitch response (HTR) is a spontaneously occurring behavior in mice that is increased in frequency by serotonergic psychedelics. The mouse...
Psychedelic-assisted therapy for treating anxiety, depression, and existential distress in people with life-threatening diseases.
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews – September 12, 2024
Summary
Promising results show that carefully supervised psychedelic therapy may offer relief for patients facing life-threatening illnesses. Analysis of 6 clinical trials found that psilocybin and LSD sessions, combined with therapeutic support, reduced anxiety and depression symptoms in 140 participants. While side effects were generally mild and temporary, these treatments showed potential for easing emotional distress in seriously ill patients.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapy refers to a group of therapeutic practices involving psychedelics taken under therapeutic supervision from physicians,...
The relationship between cryptomarket drug purchase, social networks and adverse drug events: A cross-sectional study.
The International journal on drug policy – January 01, 2024
Summary
Online drug purchases through cryptomarkets are linked to higher rates of adverse drug events, particularly among solo users. Analysis of 23,000+ respondents shows that people buying drugs through digital marketplaces were more likely to use alone, without social networks for support. While overall medical incidents remained low (5.2%), cryptomarket buyers faced notably higher risks with cocaine and LSD compared to those who obtained drugs through traditional means.
Abstract
Drug use and trading are typically social activities; however, supply through cryptomarkets can occur without any in-person social contact. People ...
Acute but not long-lasting antidepressant-like effect of psilocybin in differential reinforcement of low-rate 72 schedule in rats
Journal of Psychopharmacology – October 16, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, an alkaloid hallucinogen, delivered an immediate antidepressant-like effect in rats, a key finding for medicine. Administered at 1 mg/kg over three days, this psychedelic significantly improved reinforcement efficiency in a differential reinforcement task. However, neither psilocybin nor LSD (0.08 mg/kg) showed sustained antidepressant benefits up to four weeks later, challenging assumptions in pharmacology and drug studies, including those on chemical synthesis. This psychology experiment illuminates the complex neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Background: In clinical studies, psychedelics including psilocybin and D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) demonstrate rapid and persistent antidepr...
The association between naturalistic use of psychedelics and co-occurring substance use disorders
Frontiers in Psychiatry – January 10, 2023
Summary
Peyote or Mescaline, a classic hallucinogen, shows promise in medicine for substance abuse. Among 56,276 participants, prior use of peyote/mescaline was associated with 32% lower odds (odds ratio = 0.68) of past-year substance dependence or abuse compared to non-users. This contrasts with LSD and Psilocybin, where past use was linked to increased odds. Clinical psychology and psychiatry examine how these psychedelics, through chemical synthesis and alkaloids, impact addiction. Biochemical analysis techniques could further differentiate these effects in drug studies.
Abstract
Objective Classic psychedelics (LSD, psilocybin, and peyote/mescaline) have been used to support addiction treatment in a variety of contexts rangi...
Pharmacological characterisation of psilocybin and 5-MeO-DMT discriminative cues in the rat and their translational value for identifying novel psychedelics
Journal of Psychopharmacology – August 27, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin exposures causing perceptual effects in humans align remarkably with those eliciting similar responses in rats (5–52 ng/mL plasma). This demonstrates the translational value for Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Two cohorts of male Sprague-Dawley rats were used to understand the Neuroscience of these hallucinogens. Biochemical Analysis shows these chemical alkaloids primarily act via 5-HT2A receptors. While higher DMT/LSD plasma exposures were needed in rats, their temporal profiles (LSD > psilocybin) matched human psychological experience, enhancing our understanding of their Pharmacology.
Abstract
Background and aims: Drug discrimination procedures have made important contributions to the pre-clinical investigation of psychedelic drugs, such ...
The non-hallucinogen 2-bromo-lysergic acid diethylamide as preventative treatment for cluster headache: An open, non-randomized case series
Cephalalgia – March 26, 2010
Summary
Standard medicine often fails the 0.1% of people with severe cluster headache, making new pain management crucial. An internet survey of 53 patients claimed Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin, both hallucinogen psychedelics, offer superior relief. To overcome these drugs' undesirable properties, a non-hallucinogenic Lysergic acid analog, BOL-148, is being explored. Previous drug studies in over 300 subjects confirm BOL-148 is non-toxic, presenting a promising direction in psychiatry and Migraine and Headache Studies.
Abstract
Cluster headache (CH) is a stereotyped primary headache characterized by strictly unilateral severe orbital or periorbital pain and categorized as ...
Psychedelics: A new era of treatment?
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin, mescaline, and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) are showing remarkable promise in psychiatry and psychology. These hallucinogens, including ayahuasca, influence neurotransmitter receptors through their chemical synthesis and alkaloids. Neuroscience and drug studies confirm their therapeutic potential for anxiety and mood disorders: controlled trials observed significant reductions in anxiety and depression for cancer patients, and lessened alcohol/tobacco dependence, marking a significant shift in psychedelic medicine.
Abstract
Introduction Psychedelics - including LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), psilocybin, DMT (N, N-dimethyltryptamine), ayahuasca and mescaline - have a...
Acute Lysergic Acid Diethylamide Does Not Influence Reward-Driven Decision Making of C57BL/6 Mice in the Iowa Gambling Task
Frontiers in Pharmacology – December 03, 2020
Summary
Remarkably, mice can still make reward-driven decisions even after receiving a hallucinogen like Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). In a Psychology and Neuroscience investigation, 15 mice performed an Iowa gambling task. Doses of this Lysergic acid-derived psychedelic (0.025-0.2 mg/kg) had no effect on their choices. Even the highest dose (0.4 mg/kg) did not impair choosing profitable options. However, Amphetamine (2.0 mg/kg) significantly hindered correct choices. This Pharmacology and Medicine insight into Serotonin Agonist influence on behavior from Chemical synthesis and alkaloids informs Drug Studies.
Abstract
While interest in psychedelic drugs in the fields of psychiatry and neuroscience has re-emerged in recent last decades, the general understanding o...
Acute Mood-Elevating Properties of Microdosed Lysergic Acid Diethylamide in Healthy Volunteers: A Home-Administered Randomized Controlled Trial.
Biological psychiatry – September 15, 2023
Summary
Small doses of LSD taken every three days improved daily well-being, creativity, and mood in healthy volunteers. In this home-based trial, participants who microdosed reported feeling more connected, energetic, and happy on dosing days, though some experienced anxiety. While these mood boosts were temporary, the study shows LSD microdosing is generally safe and can enhance daily life.
Abstract
Microdosing psychedelic drugs is a widespread social phenomenon with diverse benefits claimed for mood and cognition. Randomized controlled trials ...
Effective Connectivity of Functionally Anticorrelated Networks Under Lysergic Acid Diethylamide.
Biological psychiatry – February 01, 2023
Summary
LSD's profound ability to alter self-perception stems from its unique impact on brain network communication. Research shows the psychedelic disrupts normal boundaries between brain networks that typically maintain our sense of self. Using advanced brain imaging, scientists found LSD transforms inhibitory connections between key neural networks into excitatory ones, particularly affecting how attention-directing systems interact. This may explain the ego dissolution experience many report during psychedelic states.
Abstract
Classic psychedelic-induced ego dissolution involves a shift in the sense of self and a blurring of the boundary between the self and the world. A ...
[Salvia divinorum--representation of a new drug in the Internet].
Gesundheitswesen (Bundesverband der Arzte des Offentlichen Gesundheitsdienstes (Germany)) – May 01, 2006
Summary
The internet acts as an early warning system for new drug trends, often before they appear in official medical texts. An investigation compared online portrayals of Salvia divinorum, a lesser-known hallucinogen, with cannabis and LSD on German websites. Analyzing the top 100 sites for each, researchers found Salvia was actively sold on 29% of its sites, unlike cannabis or LSD. Salvia-related sites also showed a strong drug-friendly attitude (64%). Official information was rare for Salvia. This highlights the internet's crucial role in identifying emerging substance use patterns, allowing public health systems to respond proactively.
Abstract
The German pages of the Internet were searched for the presence of the hallucinogenic herbal drug Salvia divinorum, which is not dealt with in curr...
Serotonin-Sensitive Adenylate Cyclase in Neural Tissue and Its Similarity to the Serotonin Receptor: A Possible Site of Action of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences – March 01, 1974
Summary
Low concentrations of serotonin activate a specific adenylate cyclase in insect nervous systems, crucial for neurotransmission. When tested, extremely low doses of LSD and cyproheptadine inhibited this activation, with LSD showing a strong effect at just 5 nM. This competitive inhibition suggests that the serotonin receptor closely interacts with the adenylate cyclase, influencing behavior and physiological responses. These findings highlight how psychedelics like LSD may affect serotonin pathways, providing insights into the biochemical mechanisms underlying serotonergic activity and potential therapeutic applications.
Abstract
An adenylate cyclase (EC 4.6.1.1) that is activated specifically by low concentrations of serotonin has been identified in homogenates of the thora...
Lysergic acid diethylamide pretreatment prolongs brain-stimulation induced neural activity changes
OpenAlex – December 19, 2025
Summary
LSD pretreatment significantly enhances brain activity changes, leading to longer-lasting effects compared to saline. In a study involving 24 rats, those given LSD before targeted electrical stimulation of the medial prefrontal cortex exhibited greater alterations in neural activity. Specifically, the combination of LSD and stimulation activated the mTOR signaling pathway and modified perineuronal net integrity. These findings suggest that psychedelic-assisted brain stimulation could improve treatment outcomes by increasing the durability of brain changes, potentially reducing relapse rates in various psychological conditions.
Abstract
Abstract A leading theory for how psychedelics are able to produce robust clinical improvement and preclinical behavioral changes is that psychedel...
Effects of Serotonergic Psychedelics on Synaptic Function and Neuroplasticity
OPUS FAU - Online publication system of Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg – January 01, 2026
Summary
Serotonergic psychedelics like LSD, psilocin, and DMT significantly inhibit neurotransmission, with notable effects on neuronal network activity. In a study using primary rat cortical cultures, psychedelics decreased synaptic vesicle fusion by up to 30% after 3-30 minutes of treatment. While DMT and psilocin enhanced responses at glutamatergic synapses, LSD and psilocin reduced presynaptic calcium transients. Additionally, LSD and DMT inhibited spontaneous neuronal firing without altering evoked responses. These findings deepen our understanding of how psychedelics could inform treatments for neuropsychiatric conditions.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Sertonergic psychedelics LSD, psilocin and DMT, have been shown to hold a great potential for treatment of various neuropsychiatric c...
Effects of Psilocin and Psilocybin on Human 5-HT4 Serotonin and H2 Histamine Receptors in Perfused Hearts of Transgenic Mice
Pharmaceuticals – July 06, 2025
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin dramatically boosts heart muscle contraction, increasing it by up to 152% in genetically modified hearts. This pharmacology insight reveals psilocybin and psilocin, a related psychedelic, enhance contraction by increasing phospholamban phosphorylation through the 5-HT4 serotonin receptor. This chemical mechanism, relevant to internal medicine and endocrinology, wasn't observed in wild-type hearts. Other alkaloids like ergotamine showed varied effects, highlighting complex neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. This work advances drug studies and our understanding of chemical synthesis.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hallucinogenic substances such as psilocybin, psilocin, ergometrine, ergotamine, and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) have b...
Microdosing Psychedelics: Current Evidence From Controlled Studies.
Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging – May 01, 2024
Summary
Regular, tiny doses of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) can produce subtle but measurable effects on mood, pain perception, and social awareness without serious side effects. Controlled research shows that microdosing psychedelics at 10-20 micrograms affects blood pressure and brain connectivity while remaining safe. Lower doses of 5 micrograms showed no noticeable effects.
Abstract
Taking regular low doses of psychedelic drugs (microdosing) is a practice that has drawn recent scientific and media attention for its potential ps...
Hallucinogenic drugs attenuate the subjective response to alcohol in humans
Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental – January 01, 2000
Summary
A striking finding in Psychology and Pharmacology reveals that 86.7% of Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) users reported a complete blockade of alcohol's subjective effects when combined. Interviewing 22 users, another 60% of psilocybin users reported a partial antagonism. This suggests a significant interaction between alcohol and these hallucinogens. LSD's antagonism was notably stronger, possibly involving serotonergic receptor systems. These insights from Psychedelics and Drug Studies could inform future Medicine and Psychiatry approaches to addiction, particularly alcohol addiction.
Abstract
This study investigated possible interactions between alcohol and hallucinogens in 22 lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and/or psilocybin users thro...
Neurotoxic and Neuroprotective Effects of Psychedelics in a Human Neuroblastoma Cell Model
RevSALUS - Revista Científica da Rede Académica das Ciências da Saúde da Lusofonia – January 01, 2025
Summary
LSD exhibits the highest neurotoxicity among common psychedelics, significantly impacting neuroblastoma cells. In neuroscience drug studies on SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, LSD showed EC50 values of 0.23 mM (mitochondrial) and 0.57 mM (lysosomal). Psilocin, an alkaloid, also displayed moderate cytotoxicity (0.42-0.69 mM). Conversely, psilocybin, 5-MeO-DMT, and mescaline were considerably less toxic. A neuroprotection study, involving five experiments, found limited protective effects against glutamate-induced damage.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds, including psilocybin, psilocin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), and mescalin...
Real-world effectiveness and safety of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy: Outcomes from a large-scale compassionate use cohort in Switzerland.
Psychiatry research – February 02, 2026
Summary
Significant improvements in Anxiety and Depression were observed in 115 adults undergoing Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy with LSD or Psilocybin. This real-world analysis, involving 56.5% women, showed substantial reductions in depressive symptoms (effect size η²=0.42) and anxiety (η²=0.17) 1-3 months post-treatment. Patients receiving either 100 µg LSD or 25 mg psilocybin reported similar positive outcomes, alongside improved emotional regulation. The experience, potentially including mystical elements, was well-tolerated with mild, transient adverse events, highlighting the effectiveness of this approach.
Abstract
Classic serotonergic psychedelics such as LSD and psilocybin show promising antidepressant effects in controlled trials, but real-world data from r...
Treatment of neuropathic pain with repeated low-dose MDMA: a case report.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking case shows how MDMA microdosing provided lasting relief for severe chronic pain. After traditional treatments failed, doctors explored psychedelic-assisted therapy, first with LSD then with MDMA. Small, repeated doses of MDMA significantly reduced the patient's neuropathic pain, with benefits persisting even after treatment ended. This suggests promising limited medical use for MDMA in pain management.
Abstract
A 64-year-old male patient who suffered from traumatic life experiences and neuropathic pain after oncological chemotherapy was treated with medium...
Magic of the Mushrooms: Effects of Psilocybin Decriminalization
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – July 10, 2024
Summary
Decriminalization of psilocybin, a therapeutic hallucinogen, profoundly shifts public interest. Analysis of extensive web-based search data reveals a marked increase in psilocybin inquiries, alongside a notable reduction for other psychedelics like LSD and MDMA. This nationwide trend suggests a significant public health benefit, as individuals gravitate towards psilocybin, considered the safest option. This finding contributes to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, reflecting policy's impact on Medicine and Pharmacology, and its potential in Psychology for mental health.
Abstract
In the past few years, psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms" (psilocybin mushrooms), has undergone decriminalization in num...
Receptor interaction profiles of novel N-2-methoxybenzyl (NBOMe) derivatives of 2,5-dimethoxy-substituted phenethylamines (2C drugs).
Neuropharmacology – December 01, 2015
Summary
Many novel psychoactive substances, like NBOMe drugs, are chemically similar to phenethylamines but show surprisingly potent effects. This research meticulously mapped how these compounds bind to various brain receptors, revealing their high affinity for the 5-HT2A receptor, a key target for hallucinogens. The study found NBOMe drugs are exceptionally potent at this receptor, comparable to LSD, and also strongly interact with adrenergic α1 receptors. This unique receptor profile suggests powerful hallucinogenic effects, potentially coupled with stimulant properties.
Abstract
N-2-methoxybenzyl-phenethylamines (NBOMe drugs) are newly used psychoactive substances with poorly defined pharmacological properties. The aim of t...
Cessation and reduction in alcohol consumption and misuse after psychedelic use
Journal of Psychopharmacology – May 14, 2019
Summary
Remarkably, 83% of individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) no longer met diagnostic criteria after naturalistic psychedelic use. An online survey of 343 respondents, 72% with severe AUD, indicated significant reductions in problematic alcohol consumption following experiences with substances like LSD (38%) or psilocybin (36%). Participants reported these highly meaningful psychedelic experiences, often involving higher doses, facilitated reduced alcohol misuse. This compelling psychology and clinical psychology data suggests a promising avenue for medicine and psychiatry in addressing alcohol consumption patterns, informing future drug studies.
Abstract
Background: Meta-analysis of randomized studies using lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for alcohol use disorder (AUD) showed large, significant eff...
A study of the role of noradrenaline in behavioural changes produced in the rat by psychotomimetic drugs
British Journal of Pharmacology – February 01, 1969
Summary
Psilocybin and other hallucinogens profoundly affect brain chemistry and behavior. These psychotomimetic compounds, including LSD-25, reduced noradrenaline in the rat hypothalamus. They retarded an avoidance response, while JB-329 enhanced it. Behavioral effects peaked around 1.5 hours post-injection, considerably earlier than the 3-hour peak for noradrenaline changes. Doses influencing behavior were often lower than those altering noradrenaline levels. Pharmacology shows Reserpine pretreatment can shorten drug-induced excitation, highlighting complex neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, crucial for Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
LSD‐25, psilocybin and JB‐329 reduced the noradrenaline content of the rat hypothalamus. All three drugs affected the acquisition of a conditioned ...
Functional imaging investigation of psychedelic visual imagery
Spiral (Imperial College London) – October 01, 2019
Summary
Psychedelics induce vivid **mental image** experiences, making the visual system mimic real-world perception even with eyes closed. **Psychology** investigations with 15 subjects on 75 µg LSD revealed increased visual cortex connectivity and patterns matching neural **Cartography** (retinotopic mapping), similar to **Computer vision**. This active **Cognitive psychology** processing, relevant to **Artificial intelligence** and **Aesthetic Perception and Analysis**, creates these **Psychedelics and Drug Studies** visions. 9 subjects on 2mg psilocybin also showed hierarchical visual cortex activation during imagery onset.
Abstract
Psychedelics can induce eyes-closed imagery in which various visions can be experienced. These visions vary from simple geometrical patterns, to mo...
Commentary on Keyes and Patrick: Changes in psychedelic use in the United States may require changes in our narrative of psychedelic harms
Addiction – November 02, 2023
Summary
Drug studies reveal a near doubling in non-Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) hallucinogen use among 19-30 year olds from 2018-2021. While some perceive this as a health concern, this increase, largely involving psilocybin and other psychedelics, occurred primarily in higher socio-economic groups. Psychology insights suggest infrequent hallucinogen use, unlike phencyclidine, may correlate with improved well-being and lower psychopathology, challenging negative narratives. Monitoring these trends is crucial, but potential benefits might outweigh perceived risks for this demographic.
Abstract
Given the shifting public perception of psilocybin and associated legal changes, the increase in use observed by Keyes and Patrick is not surprisin...
Italian psychedelic therapies of the past century: An historical overview
Drug Science Policy and Law – January 01, 2023
Summary
Italy holds the 20th-century world record for clinical studies using psilocybin and lysergic acid amide. New documentation reveals at least 60 pioneering Italian clinical studies (1927-1966) with hallucinogens like Lysergic acid diethylamide. Psychiatrists administered the first 500 mcg LSD dose to humans, demonstrating early chemical synthesis and alkaloids application. Successful medicine involved 3 mg psilocybin for depression. This history significantly impacts Psychology, Psychiatry, and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, challenging the psychotomimetic view and informing psychotherapists and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies.
Abstract
In recent years, the historical record of psychedelic therapy in Europe and the Americas has undergone considerable revision. In this article, we c...
AVANÇOS NO TRATAMENTO DE TRANSTORNOS MENTAIS: Uma análise bibliométrica global da pesquisa sobre psicodélicos clássicos
Psicologia e Saúde em Debate – October 18, 2024
Summary
Research into classic psychedelics for mental health treatment is experiencing a dramatic global surge. An analysis of 4,235 publications from 91 countries reveals a strong, accelerating trend in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Publications on LSD and psilocybin, central to Psychology and Mental Health, show particularly robust growth, with yearly increases correlating strongly at 0.92 and 0.94 respectively. This expanding evidence base offers new avenues for psychotherapists seeking innovative therapeutic options.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics are being globally investigated for their therapeutic potential in mental disorders, however, the literature offers little inf...
Real-World Effectiveness and Safety of Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy: Outcomes from a Large-Scale Compassionate Use Cohort in Switzerland
OpenAlex – December 01, 2025
Summary
Real-world data reveals significant improvements in mental health following psychedelic-assisted therapy. Among 115 adults (56.5% female) with treatment-resistant depression or anxiety, a single session with LSD or psilocybin led to substantial symptom reduction. Depressive symptoms decreased with a large effect (partial η² = 0.42), and anxiety symptoms showed a medium effect reduction (partial η² = 0.17). Participants also reported better emotional regulation, including less self-blame and more positive refocusing. The therapy was well-tolerated, with only mild, transient adverse events and no serious complications.
Abstract
Abstract Background Classic serotonergic psychedelics such as LSD and psilocybin show promising antidepressant effects in controlled trials, but re...
Natural language analysis of the structure of altered states of consciousness
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – May 17, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like salvia and ketamine show remarkable similarities in content to non-drug methods of inducing altered states of consciousness (ASC), based on an analysis of 300 narrative reports. Most psychedelics, excluding LSD, were associated with positive and authentic experiences, with authenticity linked to a positive sentiment (R = 0.68). The study identified themes that trace the journey from ordinary awareness to profound metaphysical experiences, suggesting a structured understanding of ASC across various induction techniques, which could enhance future explorations in psychology and linguistics.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Altered states of consciousness (ASC) represent acute and marked deviations from normal waking consciousness. Investig...
Discriminative stimulus effects of the optical isomers of 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA)
Behavioural Pharmacology – October 01, 1992
Summary
Isomers of 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) demonstrated distinct stimulus control in rats, with 1.25 mg/kg doses leading to significant drug lever selection. Both (-) and (+) MDA maintained appropriate responding for over 90 minutes, and cross-substitution occurred with MDMA isomers. Notably, the hallucinogen LSD substituted for both MDA isomers, while amphetamine and cocaine showed no similar effects. The findings suggest that (-) MDA may exhibit stronger hallucinogenic properties than (+) MDA, with its effects leaning more towards serotonergic activity.
Abstract
The isomers of 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) functioned as discriminative stimuli in rats trained to discriminate either (-) MDA (1.25mg/kg) ...
Lysergic acid diethylamide induces behavioral changes in Caenorhabditis elegans.
Neuroscience letters – August 10, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD affect tiny worms similarly to humans, revealing shared brain chemistry across species. Scientists found that when C. elegans worms were exposed to LSD, their movement slowed significantly, mimicking serotonin's natural calming effects. The changes occurred through specific serotonin receptors, particularly SER-4, showing how these ancient neural pathways respond to psychedelic compounds.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a synthetic psychedelic compound with potential therapeutic value for psychiatric disorders. This study aims to...
I like the old stuff better than the new stuff? Subjective experiences of new psychoactive substances.
The International journal on drug policy – February 01, 2017
Summary
Not all new psychoactive substances capture user interest equally. Researchers explored how frequent psychostimulant consumers subjectively rated newer substances against traditional drugs. While stimulant-type NPS like mephedrone were less appealing than ecstasy, DMT stood out. It offered similar pleasurable effects to LSD but with fewer negative experiences, suggesting a higher potential for user appeal among new psychoactive substances. Other newer hallucinogens, however, were rated less favorably than LSD.
Abstract
Over the past decade, monitoring systems have identified the rapid emergence of new psychoactive substances (NPS). While the use of many NPS is min...
Persistence of lysergic acid diethylamide in the plasma of human subjects
Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics – September 01, 1964
Summary
A significant finding reveals that after administering two micrograms per kilogram of Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD-25) intravenously to five normal human subjects, the drug was detected in substantial amounts during its peak effect. Plasma levels were measured over an 8-hour period, indicating a prolonged presence of LSD-25. Notably, the calculated half-life of LSD-25 in human plasma was 175 minutes, highlighting its persistence and potential implications for pharmacology and endocrinology within the context of psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Two micrograms per kilogram of LSD‐25 was administered intravenously to five normal human subjects. The concentration of drug in plasma was determi...
Comparison of strength and adulteration between illicit drugs obtained from cryptomarkets versus off-line.
Addiction (Abingdon, England) – January 01, 2025
Summary
Online drug markets show surprising quality control: substances purchased through cryptomarkets often contain fewer adulterants and higher purity than street drugs. Testing of over 60,000 drug samples revealed cocaine and MDMA powder from digital sources were consistently stronger and less contaminated. However, results varied by substance, with some drugs showing opposite trends.
Abstract
Drugs sold on cryptomarkets are thought to have lower levels of adulteration and higher strength compared with those sourced off-line. The present ...
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...
Unequal representation? A cross-sectional analysis of age, sex, race, and ethnicity in clinical trials of classic psychedelics
Journal of Psychopharmacology – July 11, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin clinical trials, a key area in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, reveal a significant lack of diversity. Across eight psilocybin trials (n=501), 87.2% of participants were White, while Black individuals constituted only 3.0% and Asian individuals 5.0%. Among those reporting ethnicity (n=134), 13.4% were Hispanic or Latino. This limited representation in clinical psychology and psychiatry trials raises serious questions about the generalizability of these hallucinogen therapies across the broader population. Ensuring equitable access and understanding true safety and efficacy in medicine requires broader inclusion of every ethnic group.
Abstract
Background: Although classic psychedelic trials show therapeutic potential, the limited diversity of participants raises concerns about generalizab...
Decreased mental time travel to the past correlates with default-mode network disintegration under lysergic acid diethylamide
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2016
Summary
A fascinating insight reveals how a specific compound can quiet the mind's tendency to dwell on the past. Volunteers received the compound or placebo in a controlled setting. Brain scans and verbal reports showed it significantly reduced mental journeys into one's past, correlating with changes in a brain network linked to self-reflection. This offers a promising avenue for treating conditions marked by excessive rumination.
Abstract
This paper reports on the effects of LSD on mental time travel during spontaneous mentation. Twenty healthy volunteers participated in a placebo-co...
The Use of Classic Hallucinogens/Psychedelics in a Therapeutic Context: Healthcare Policy Opportunities and Challenges
Risk Management and Healthcare Policy – March 01, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin and other hallucinogens show promise in psychiatry, offering rapid, enduring relief for severe mental disorders using single or few doses. Historically used in ritual contexts, like Ayahuasca, these psychedelics are now gaining medical interest for their antidepressant and anti-addictive effects. Pharmacology reveals their action on 5-HT2A receptors. Integrating them into medicine faces hurdles due to social stigma and scheduling, despite ethical concerns about denying access. Dialogue between psychology, industry, and policy is crucial to harness their therapeutic potential for treating addiction and other conditions.
Abstract
Psychedelics or serotonergic hallucinogens are a group of substances that share the agonism of serotonergic 5-HT2A receptors as their main mechanis...
Simultaneous polysubstance use among Danish 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine and hallucinogen users: combination patterns and proposed biological bases
Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental – June 14, 2012
Summary
Danish hallucinogen users display extensive polysubstance dependence, consuming an average of 12.6 psychoactive substances lifetime. A Psychology study of 98 individuals revealed common simultaneous use patterns. Among MDMA users, 69% mixed it with amphetamines, 56% with other hallucinogens, and 47% with cocaine. At last recalled use, MDMA was combined with an average of 2.1 additional substances across 32 unique combinations, hinting at a complex Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior. This research in Psychedelics and Drug Studies provides insights relevant to Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, highlighting precise drug combination preferences.
Abstract
Objective To describe patterns of simultaneous polysubstance use (SPU) among Danish 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) (“Ecstasy”) and halluc...
The Return of Psychedelics: Still Time to Prevent Tragedy
Psychiatric News – March 31, 2021
Summary
The push to revive psychedelics like psilocybin, lauded for therapeutic potential, risks a public health tragedy akin to the opioid crisis. Despite grassroots decriminalization efforts and psychology insights, hallucinogens present significant concerns. MDMA saw lifetime use by 5-10% of the population, with one lab distributing 500,000 doses monthly before government restrictions. Lessons from political science and public relations failures in drug studies are vital. Unchecked politics and marketing could repeat the 450,000 opioid deaths in 20 years.
Abstract
Back to table of contents Previous article Next article ViewpointsFull AccessThe Return of Psychedelics: Still Time to Prevent TragedyStanley N. Ca...
125I-lysergic acid diethylamide binds to a novel serotonergic site on rat choroid plexus epithelial cells
Journal of Neuroscience – December 01, 1985
Summary
A novel serotonergic binding site in the rat choroid plexus exhibits a remarkable density of 3,100 fmol/mg of protein, ten times higher than any other serotonergic site in brain tissues. This unique site, localized to epithelial cells, shows distinct pharmacological properties that do not align with traditional serotonergic receptors like 5-HT1a or 5-HT2. Binding is strongly inhibited by compounds such as mianserin and serotonin, while other neurotransmitter agonists demonstrate only moderate affinities. This discovery could reshape our understanding of serotonin's role in brain disorders and internal medicine.
Abstract
125I-Lysergic acid diethylamide (125I-LSD) binds with high affinity to serotonergic sites on rat choroid plexus. These sites were localized to chor...
Pharmacology of novel psychoactive substances
edoc (University of Basel) – January 01, 2016
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
This PhD work consists of an in vitro and in vivo part. In the in vivo part, we investigated the role of dopamine in the acute clinical effects of ...
Serotonergic Psychedelics Rapidly Modulate Evoked Glutamate Release in Cultured Cortical Neurons
Journal of Neurochemistry – February 28, 2025
Summary
Serotonergic psychedelics like LSD rapidly alter how primary rat cortical neurons communicate. This Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology Research found these compounds reduced the fraction of chemical messengers released within 3-30 minutes. This transient effect, gone after 24 hours, varied. DMT only reduced the total supply, while LSD and psilocin also impacted readily available packets. Psilocin increased glutamate release, hinting at complex interactions with glutamate receptor systems. Such Chemistry and Drug Studies on Serotonin's influence via these alkaloids illuminate their therapeutic potential.
Abstract
ABSTRACT The serotonergic psychedelics psilocybin, LSD and DMT hold great promise for the development of new treatments for psychiatric conditions ...
Associations between psychedelic use and cannabis use disorder in a nationally representative sample.
Drug and alcohol dependence – January 01, 2025
Summary
Recent findings reveal an unexpected connection between psychedelic use and problematic marijuana habits. Analysis of nationwide health surveys shows that people who used psilocybin mushrooms or LSD were roughly twice as likely to develop cannabis-related issues. While DMT, ketamine, and MDMA were also studied, the strongest links were with classic psychedelics. This challenges assumptions about psychedelics' potential role in addiction treatment.
Abstract
Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is an increasingly prevalent disorder affecting millions of Americans each year. Psychedelic compounds have recently be...
Systematic characterization of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide metabolites in Caenorhabditis elegans by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry.
Journal of chromatography. A – October 11, 2023
Summary
Scientists mapped how tiny worms process LSD, revealing new insights into how psychedelics interact with living systems. Using advanced chemical analysis (UHPLC-HRMS/MS), researchers tracked how C. elegans breaks down LSD, identifying key metabolic pathways. This breakthrough provides valuable insights for understanding psychedelic metabolism in biological systems.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds have gained renewed interest for their potential therapeutic applications, but their metabolism and effects on complex biolog...
Systems-level analysis of local field potentials reveals differential effects of lysergic acid diethylamide and ketamine on neuronal activity and functional connectivity.
Frontiers in neuroscience – January 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough brain recordings reveal distinct neural signatures of two powerful mind-altering compounds. While both LSD and ketamine alter consciousness, they do so through different neurological mechanisms. Using advanced in vivo neurophysiology, researchers measured brain activity patterns and neural communication in rodents. LSD, a classic psychedelic, decreased brain network connectivity without changing overall neural activity. Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, both increased neural firing and reduced connectivity between brain regions.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances have in recent years attracted considerable interest as potential treatments for several psychiatric conditions, including d...
Synergistic, Multi-level Understanding of Psychedelics: Three Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses of Their Pharmacology, Neuroimaging and Phenomenology
OpenAlex – October 07, 2023
Summary
LSD induces more profound visionary experiences than psilocybin, a key finding from a meta-analysis exploring how these serotonergic hallucinogens alter consciousness. This neuroscience review, spanning psychology and neuroimaging, reveals psychedelics strengthen brain connectivity *between* networks while reducing it *within* networks. In terms of chemical synthesis, LSD also generates more inositol phosphate at the 5-HT 2A receptor than DMT and psilocin. This integrated understanding of neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior offers insights into potential addiction treatments, advancing Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Serotonergic psychedelics induce altered states of consciousness and have shown potential for treating a variety of neuropsychiatric disor...
1-Aminomethylbenzocycloalkanes: conformationally restricted hallucinogenic phenethylamine analogues as functionally selective 5-HT2A receptor agonists.
Journal of medicinal chemistry – September 21, 2006
Summary
A new compound mimics how hallucinogens bind to brain receptors. Researchers synthesized restricted versions of phenethylamines, predicting one's potency through virtual modeling. This compound, (R)-2, proved as potent as LSD in animal models, effectively activating specific signaling pathways. Crucially, it showed significantly higher activity in one pathway over another, suggesting it might produce desired receptor effects without the intoxicating properties of traditional hallucinogens.
Abstract
A series of conformationally restricted analogues of the hallucinogenic phenethylamine 1 (2,5-dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine, 2C-B) was synthesize...
The therapeutic potential of microdosing psychedelics in depression
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2020
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin shows subtle cognitive benefits, potentially offering new avenues for depression treatment. A review of 14 experimental drug studies found small doses (e.g., 10-20 mcg LSD) subtly improve thinking and affect brain regions. While generally well-tolerated with minimal physiological impact, some users experience increased anxiety or mood cycling. These pharmacological effects suggest microdosing could foster cognitive flexibility, potentially reducing rumination—a key aspect of psychological distress. Understanding its therapeutic value as an alternative psychiatric approach warrants continued medical inquiry.
Abstract
Microdosing psychedelics is the repeated use of small doses of, for example, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin, typically for a few w...
Psychedelics and Hallucinogens in Psychiatry: Finding New PharmacologicalTargets
Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry – December 02, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin significantly reduced obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms in a small sample, highlighting the potential of psychedelics and hallucinogens in psychiatry. Ayahuasca, Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and psilocybin show promise for depression and anxiety, with psilocybin also aiding tobacco addiction and LSD assisting alcohol use disorders. These substances, explored in drug studies, appear safe. Their influence on neurotransmitter receptors, like 5HT2A, and brain connectivity changes, identified through biochemical analysis, offer new avenues in psychology and addiction treatment, despite current studies having small samples.
Abstract
Background: The therapeutic options for neurobehavioral disorders are still limited, and in many cases, they lack a satisfactory balance between ef...
Molecular docking and binding interaction between psychedelic drugs and human serum albumin
BioTechnologia – June 16, 2020
Summary
Psychedelic drugs like LSD and psilocybin strongly bind to human serum albumin, a key plasma protein. Using computational biology, all six tested psychedelics interact with serum albumin, influencing their pharmacology. LSD showed the highest binding energy at -7.6 kcal/mol, with psilocybin at -6.5 kcal/mol. These protein interaction studies, vital for drug studies and chemistry, highlight albumin's role as a biodistributor. Such insights are often complemented by analytical chemistry, chromatography, and fluorescence analysis.
Abstract
Drug-plasma protein interaction is a critical concern in monitoring drug circulation and drug-drug interactions. The present study aimed to investi...
To treat or not to treat? High-potency benzodiazepine use in a case of comorbid hallucinogen persisting perception disorder and alcohol use disorder.
Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology – September 01, 2022
Summary
Visual hallucinations can persist for over 20 years after Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) use, a key finding in Psychology and Psychiatry. One 37-year-old experienced halos and moving walls, even with a history of Cannabis use. These severe perception disturbances, characteristic of a Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder, resolved with Clonazepam, a Benzodiazepine. This case from Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis, distinguishing such visual phenomena from other hallucinations in medical conditions to ensure proper treatment, especially when Psilocybin or LSD are involved.
Abstract
Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD) is characterized by visual disturbances that resemble psychedelic intoxication and linger after ...