1269 results for "Set and Setting"
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...
Self-Reported Efficacy of Treatments in Cluster Headache: a Systematic Review of Survey Studies
Current Pain and Headache Reports – June 27, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic substances like psilocybin and LSD show surprising promise in preventing severe Cluster headache attacks, a finding consistent across 9 surveys involving 5419 respondents. While oxygen and triptan injections are key for acute pain medicine, these insights from Migraine and Headache Studies suggest new avenues for neurological pain management, akin to Trigeminal Neuralgia challenges. This review highlights how patient data can guide future clinical trials, potentially transforming treatment for this debilitating condition, often requiring comprehensive care from family medicine.
Abstract
Abstract Purpose of Review The use and efficacy of various substances in the treatment of CH have been studied in several retrospective surveys. Th...
Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder: A literature review and three case reports
Journal of Addictive Diseases – October 02, 2018
Summary
More than 50% of hallucinogen users may experience persistent perception disorder, a condition often underdiagnosed in Psychiatry and Psychology. This involves visual hallucination. Three cases illustrate types: a 23-year-old developed symptoms after Psilocybin and Cannabis, recurring with natural cannabinoids. Surprisingly, two others developed severe visual impairments after Ecstasy (MDMA), despite it not being a typical hallucinogen. Clinicians in Medicine and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, including Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, need awareness, relevant to Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research.
Abstract
The paper describes diagnostic criteria, clinical presentation and types of hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD), as well as current ...
Ministry of the Mushroom
International Journal for the Study of New Religions – March 23, 2022
Summary
Beyond clinical applications, a compelling trend shows psilocybin mushroom churches emerging, offering unique spiritual pathways. These communities foster "sacred sensemaking," interpreting the hallucinogen psilocybin as a divine sacrament through ritual practices. This sociological shift contrasts with traditional Christian ministry, suggesting a distinct psychological approach to spiritual exploration. It expands psychedelics and drug studies beyond chemical synthesis, hinting at diverse academic research themes, from the aesthetics of ritual to the psychoanalytic depth of personal transformation.
Abstract
Recently there has been a surge of renewed interest in the psychedelic compound psilocybin. In particular, psilocybin is being studied in clinical ...
Psilocybin therapy appears as effective as escitalopram, small study finds
Pharmaceutical journal/The pharmaceutical journal – January 01, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, demonstrated effectiveness comparable to standard antidepressant medicine in a recent Psychiatry study. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, this phase II trial involved 59 participants. Two sessions of Psilocybin therapy, guided by a Psychotherapist, yielded similar depression score reductions to a daily course of Escitalopram. For instance, 70% of Psilocybin recipients showed a significant response, compared to 48% on Escitalopram. This research in Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggests a promising alternative for mental health, potentially influencing future treatment approaches.
Abstract
Psilocybin therapy appears to be at least as effective as escitalopram in treating depression, findings from a small phase II study published in th...
Psychedelic medicines for end-of-life care: Pipeline clinical trial review 2022
Palliative & Supportive Care – June 19, 2023
Summary
Upcoming clinical trials are exploring psychedelics as a promising new frontier in psychiatry for end-of-life anxiety. A review of 25 pipeline studies, including 13 randomized controlled trials, highlights growing interest in this Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Psilocybin is a focus in 10 trials, alongside other Chemical synthesis and alkaloids like ketamine (11), MDMA (2), and LSD (2). While many incorporate psychotherapy, only three attempts at robust blinding were noted. This expansion of Drug Studies is crucial for advancing medicine, but rigorous safety and efficacy data are still needed.
Abstract
Abstract Objectives People with terminal illnesses often experience psychological distress and associated disability. Recent clinical trial evidenc...
Rapid antidepressant effects of the psychedelic ayahuasca in treatment-resistant depression: a randomized placebo-controlled trial
Psychological Medicine – June 15, 2018
Summary
Ayahuasca shows powerful antidepressant effects for treatment-resistant depression. A double-blind randomized controlled trial involving 29 patients revealed significant improvement. Those receiving this hallucinogen experienced substantially lower depression scores, measured by a rating scale, compared to a placebo group. By day seven, the antidepressant effect size was very large (Cohen's d = 1.49), with 64% responding to Ayahuasca versus 27% to placebo. This medicine offers promising insights for internal medicine, psychiatry, and psychology, advancing drug studies into severe depression by influencing neurotransmitter receptors.
Abstract
Abstract Background Recent open-label trials show that psychedelics, such as ayahuasca, hold promise as fast-onset antidepressants in treatment-res...
Designer Drugs 2.0
Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics – January 13, 2017
Summary
Synthetic cannabinoids, potent Designer drugs, demonstrate significantly higher potency at Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists than natural compounds. This Neuropharmacology highlights novel psychoactive substances' dual nature and Medicine Repurposing, including Psilocybin and the Hallucinogen Lysergic acid diethylamide. Despite therapeutic promise for Psychology, illicit use, Psychosis, and Forensic Toxicology challenges remain critical for these drugs. This complex Pharmacology field, explored in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, addresses these issues.
Abstract
This “Designer Drugs 2.0” issue of Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics focuses on novel psychoactive substances, primarily cannabinoids and ca...
Use of Selective Alternative Therapies for Treatment of OCD
Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment – April 01, 2023
Summary
A compelling 40% of individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders don't respond to existing medicine. A systematic review of 16 observational studies, from sources like Cochrane Library and MEDLINE, explored alternative drug options. Examining Psilocybin (4 studies), Cannabis (7 studies), Nicotine (3 studies), and Morphine (2 studies), positive effects were reported by all Psilocybin and morphine users, 88.2% of nicotine users, and 74.1% of Cannabis users. Tolerability was generally good, though some experienced worsening symptoms. This offers promising avenues for Psychiatry, Internal medicine, and Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
About 40% of the people with the obsessive-compulsive-disorder do not experience the desired outcome after the existing treatment, and its several ...
Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained: Regulations Cripple Potentially Life-Saving Research of Illicit Substances
ACS Chemical Neuroscience – May 12, 2020
Summary
Regulations designed to prevent harm from substances like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide severely cripple scientific progress. These rules make it nearly impossible to acquire illicit hallucinogens for vital research, achieving nothing but hindering potential life-saving discoveries. Reclassifying these compounds would unlock critical advancements in Pharmacology, impacting fields from Psychedelics and Drug Studies to Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research and even Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis. This regulatory business currently stifles crucial scientific inquiry.
Abstract
Modern day research, in an attempt to determine the potential therapeutic and adverse effects of illicit substances, is a growing field, but one th...
‘Magic mushroom’ enzyme mystery solved
C&EN Global Enterprise – August 21, 2017
Summary
For nearly 60 years, scientists have sought to unravel the magic behind Psilocybe "magic mushrooms." Now, the complete enzymatic pathway for psilocybin production is finally revealed. Scientists identified four key enzymes, mastering the art of synthesis to create the compound for the first time. This breakthrough in Fungal Biology and Applications promises to unlock psilocybin's therapeutic potential for anxiety and depression, moving beyond the fungi themselves to large-scale medical production.
Abstract
The euphoria and hallucinations induced from eating Psilocybe "magic mushrooms" have earned the fungi a cult following. Albert Hofmann, a chemist a...
Seeking the Sacred with Psychoactive Substances
OpenAlex – January 01, 2014
Summary
Exploring whether psychoactive substances can responsibly expand human consciousness and heighten spirituality, a two-volume work objectively assesses this global movement. Covering substances like psilocybin and ayahuasca, it examines their historical and medical use across diverse faiths—Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Shamanism. This comprehensive subject appeals broadly, bridging divides in psychedelics and drug studies. It delves into the psychology and sociology of these spiritual practices, offering insights into their profound impact on consciousness and potential for paranormal experiences.
Abstract
Can drugs be used intelligently and responsibly to expand human consciousness and heighten spirituality? This two-volume work presents objective sc...
Group Retreat Psilocybin Therapy for People with Metastatic Cancer with Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression: Safety and Efficacy Outcomes of a Phase 1/2 Study
Psychedelic Medicine – January 18, 2026
Summary
A group psilocybin intervention for cancer-related anxiety and depression proved remarkably safe, with zero episodes of unattended participant distress among 52 individuals. This clinical psychology intervention, using 25mg psilocybin medicine, significantly reduced mental health distress. Participants, averaging 53 years old and mostly undergoing cancer treatment (88%), saw their Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scores drop from 17.5 to 10.2 within 28 days. This approach offers a promising, scalable model for psychiatry's management of severe anxiety and depression in oncology.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin is a promising therapy for cancer-related distress, but existing individual treatment models are resource intensive. In this...
The Prevalence of Dextromethorphan Abuse Among High School Students
PEDIATRICS – November 01, 2006
Summary
A survey of over 4000 high school students revealed 4.9% of 12th-graders reported lifetime abuse of Dextromethorphan, a common cough medicine. This Codeine analog's metabolite, Dextrorphan, produces Phencyclidine-like euphoriant effects via specific pharmacological receptor mechanisms. This prevalence exceeds heroin (4.1%) and rivals methamphetamine (5.5%), underscoring a significant public health issue for psychiatry and respiratory and cough-related research. Among users, 69.2% also reported using LSD, compared to 6.7% of non-users.
Abstract
To the Editor.—Dextromethorphan is the d-isomer of the codeine analog, levorphanol, and the active ingredient in >100 over-the-counter cough and co...
Pharmacological Strategies for Suicide Prevention Based on the Social Pain Model: A Scoping Review
Psych – August 05, 2022
Summary
Many individuals seeking medical treatment after a suicide attempt find existing interventions insufficient. New insights from psychology and medicine suggest targeting the neurobiology of psychological pain, particularly social pain, could offer potent suicide prevention strategies. For instance, Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlight how compounds like ketamine and psilocybin may rapidly reduce suicidal ideation by influencing neurotransmitter receptors. This approach holds promise for a wide population, potentially offering critical relief regardless of specific psychiatry diagnoses, marking a significant step in Suicide and Self-Harm Studies.
Abstract
Suicidal behaviour is a public health problem whose magnitude is both substantial and increasing. Since many individuals seek medical treatment fol...
Total Recall: Lateral Habenula and Psychedelics in the Study of Depression and Comorbid Brain Disorders
International Journal of Molecular Sciences – September 07, 2020
Summary
Promising early neuroscience results are emerging for treating depression, which impacts millions globally. Clinical trials using Psilocybin and deep brain stimulation targeting the Habenula show potential. These interventions, central to Psychiatry and Medicine, modulate serotonergic systems, influencing neurotransmitter receptor behavior. Advanced neuroimaging is crucial to understand these psychedelic-induced changes at a molecular level, alongside exploring chemical synthesis and alkaloids. This integrated approach in Psychology aims to refine treatments, offering hope for a significant impact on depression's economic burden.
Abstract
Depression impacts the lives and daily activities of millions globally. Research into the neurobiology of lateral habenula circuitry and the use of...
Psychedelic Sensationalism: An Analysis of the Schedule Classification of Psilocybin
Vanderbilt Undergraduate Research Journal – April 24, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a beneficial hallucinogen with no serious side effects, was designated a Schedule I drug in 1970, incurring the highest legal punishment. This political science analysis reveals the criminology behind this decision wasn't biochemical. Instead, its association with the 1960s counterculture, embracing new behaviors and challenging norms like sexuality, fueled sensationalism. Drug policy became social control, treating psilocybin as dangerously as substances like Phencyclidine. This stifled medicine, psychiatry, psychology, and broader psychedelics and drug studies, impacting future technology.
Abstract
In 1970, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration passed the Controlled Substances Act. This statute classified and banned a variety of dr...
Facing Mortality Together: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Analysis of Group Psilocybin Therapy Among Older Long-Term AIDS Survivor Gay Men
Palliative Medicine Reports – January 01, 2026
Summary
Group psilocybin therapy appears to foster death acceptance in individuals facing serious illness. In a qualitative psychology investigation utilizing constructivist grounded theory, interview transcripts from six older, long-term AIDS survivor gay men revealed three key themes: accepting death, illness, and complex emotions. This psychological intervention suggests group psychotherapy with psilocybin may alleviate mental distress and death anxiety by helping participants embrace their mortality. Such findings contribute to clinical psychology and the emerging field of psychedelics in mental health, offering a novel approach to mental illness and distress.
Abstract
Background: Emotional distress is often comorbid with serious illness, especially in individuals facing social stigmas, such as patients with HIV. ...
Psychedelics and Psychotherapy: Is the Whole Greater than the Sum of its Parts?
Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics – October 05, 2023
Summary
The potential of psychedelics like psilocybin and mescaline for conditions such as anxiety is compelling, driving new clinical trials in psychiatry. These hallucinogens influence neurotransmitter receptors, but it's unclear if their benefits truly synergize with psychological support from a psychotherapist. Rigorous 2x2 factorial clinical trials are crucial. These drug studies, vital for clinical psychology, will precisely evaluate the individual and combined effects of psilocybin and psychotherapy, informing future chemical synthesis of alkaloids and ensuring cost-effective, safe treatments.
Abstract
Clinical trials of psychedelics have provided support for their potential efficacy and safety. Although most combined a psychedelic with psychologi...
Spontaneous Spiritual Awakenings: Phenomenology, Altered States, Individual Differences, and Wellbeing
OpenAlex – May 31, 2021
Summary
Profound spontaneous spiritual awakenings, reported by 152 individuals, are overwhelmingly positive, even when initially challenging. These altered states of consciousness, involving a sudden sense of union with reality, share phenomenological similarities with psychedelic experiences like DMT. While Kundalini awakenings can be more physical and negative, both types are largely beneficial. Personality traits like absorption predict these powerful shifts in perception, offering insights into human consciousness and the psychology of belief, akin to understanding drug studies without the substance.
Abstract
Spontaneous Spiritual Awakenings (SSAs) are subjective experiences characterised by a sud- den sense of direct contact, union or merging with a per...
Advancing elite athlete mental health treatment with psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy
Journal of Applied Sport Psychology – November 10, 2020
Summary
Classical psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin, and DMT, once politically vilified, are re-emerging as powerful tools for mental health. Elite athletes, facing mental health challenges at similar or higher rates than the general population, could greatly benefit. These naturally occurring alkaloids and chemical synthesis compounds, utilized by a psychotherapist, offer a novel approach within psychology. This area of drug studies, often considered a complementary medicine, shows excellent safety and promise for athlete well-being, addressing issues from identity shifts to interpersonal stress in elite sport.
Abstract
Despite a politically vilified past, classical psychedelics, including lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, and dimethyltryptamine (DMT), ...
The Grand Narrative of the Mukhomor
The Soviet and Post-Soviet Review – June 30, 2020
Summary
A Soviet Party Organizer transformed into a mushroom-powered wizard battling enemies in Heaven, a striking **narrative** from **Literature** central to Moscow **Conceptualism**. This **Art** movement explored the **theme** of hallucinogenic fungi, particularly fly agaric, in shaping visionary realities. Drawing on **historical scholarship**, the work delves into the **history** of ethno-botanical entheogens in Russia, linking **Psychedelics and Drug Studies** with **Religious Studies and Spiritual Practices**. **Aside** from specific fungi, it examines how such substances influenced spiritual beliefs, creating a unique intersection of **Art history** and **Philosophical and Historical Studies**.
Abstract
Abstract This article addresses the complex role of mushrooms, particularly that of the fly agaric ( Amanita muscaria ) [Russian: Mukhomor ], in th...
Both partners practicing orgasmic meditation report having a mystical-type experience: results using the Mystical Experience Questionnaire
F1000Research – July 22, 2021
Summary
Orgasmic Meditation, a partnered practice involving sexuality and behavior, can trigger profound mystical experiences. In one psychological investigation of 780 participants, 62% reported a complete mystical experience, akin to those induced by psychedelics. Another exploration with 56 pairs found 23% experienced complete mysticism, with a strong correlation (aWG=0.71) between partners' scores. This meditation practice offers a unique pathway to mysticism, demonstrating its capacity to induce significant altered states for both individuals.
Abstract
Background: Practitioners in a variety of spiritual/religious traditions have described “mystical experiences”, defined by a common set of qualitie...
Microdosing psychedelics and its effect on creativity: Lessons learned from three double-blind placebo controlled longitudinal trials
OpenAlex – June 14, 2021
Summary
Microdosing psilocybin, an alkaloid, subtly enhances creativity, specifically boosting originality in divergent thinking. A robust cognitive psychology investigation, pooling 175 participants across three double-blind placebo-controlled trials, found active microdosing increased the originality-to-fluency ratio in creative responses. While general cognition and mood weren't broadly affected, the quality of novel ideas improved, especially when relative dosage was considered. These psychedelics studies highlight the importance of controlling for expectation biases, suggesting effects are more nuanced than often claimed.
Abstract
Introduction: Microdosing refers to the repetitive administration of tiny doses of psychedelics (LSD, Psilocybin) over an extended period of time. ...
Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy Found to Improve Depression, Offer Other Benefits
Psychiatric News – May 23, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin therapy offers substantial, lasting relief for major depression. In a group of 24 individuals, this hallucinogen, combined with psychotherapy, led to 75% achieving treatment response and 58% remission after one year, with no serious adverse effects. This advance in Psychiatry and Clinical psychology, impacting Medicine, highlights psychedelics' potential in Mental Health Research Topics, even if personal meaning didn't directly predict depression improvement.
Abstract
Back to table of contents Previous article Next article Clinical & ResearchFull AccessPsilocybin-Assisted Therapy Found to Improve Depression, Offe...
Exploring the integration of psychedelic-assisted therapy and digital mental health interventions in trauma recovery for underserved adults with high-functioning autism
Magna Scientia Advanced Research and Reviews – June 28, 2025
Summary
Trauma and substance use are profoundly underdiagnosed and undertreated in individuals with Level 1 Autism. While promising psychedelic-assisted therapies (e.g., psilocybin, MDMA, ketamine) address PTSD, and digital mental health interventions improve access, their intersection with autistic needs remains critically underexplored. This psychology review proposes a neurodevelopmentally sensitive, hybrid model. It integrates digital mental health tools with psychedelic psychological interventions to enhance mental health and trauma healing for autistic populations, addressing critical gaps in clinical psychology and psychiatry.
Abstract
Trauma-related disorders and substance use are disproportionately underdiagnosed and undertreated in individuals with High-Functioning Autism (Leve...
Perceptions and attitudes towards psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy among health professionals, patients, and the public: A systematic review
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – February 05, 2024
Summary
Knowledge about psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is generally low across health professionals, patients, and the public. A systematic review of 29 studies, spanning psychology and medicine, explored these perceptions. Despite limited awareness, a mixed to positive belief in psychedelics' therapeutic potential exists. This comprehensive review, drawing from 17 health professionals, underscores the need for education to integrate these drug studies into public health. Databases like MEDLINE informed this work, highlighting concerns about implementation and legal status for psychotherapist-led treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Scientific interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics has been experiencing significant growth. Understandi...
Psychedelics and psychiatric disorders: A emerging role
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics like Psilocybin, Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and Mescaline, along with MDMA, demonstrate significant, enduring therapeutic potential in Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology. These hallucinogens offer immediate anti-depressant and anti-anxiety effects, proving effective for depression, cancer-related anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. In Medicine, Psychedelics and Drug Studies show these compounds, influencing behavior via neurotransmitter receptors, are well-tolerated. Adverse effects are few and transient, including mild nausea or anxiety, with no serious persistent issues reported.
Abstract
Introduction Recently there has been renewal in interest of psychedelic research. Classic psychedelics such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ps...
Psychedelic medicine: a re-emerging therapeutic paradigm
Canadian Medical Association Journal – September 08, 2015
Summary
A compelling shift is underway in Medicine: clinical psychology and psychiatry are re-examining psychedelics for treating severe mental health conditions. After decades, drug studies are exploring how these substances, often derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, influence neurotransmitter receptors to alleviate anxiety, addiction, posttraumatic stress, and depression. Psychotherapists are particularly interested in their potential. This renewed focus offers new hope for millions struggling with these debilitating illnesses, marking a significant development in our understanding of brain function and therapeutic approaches.
Abstract
In clinical research settings around the world, renewed investigations are taking place on the use of psychedelic substances for treating illnesses...
Exploring the Effects of Psilocybin on Depression and the Mediating Role of the 5-HT2A Receptor: A Systematic Review
Acta Neuropsychiatrica – September 03, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers substantial, rapid antidepressant effects for Major Depressive Disorder. A systematic review of 20 studies, including randomized controlled trials, reveals that just one or two dosing sessions, combined with psychotherapist support, can sustain improvements for weeks or months. This pharmacology-based medicine shows promise in psychiatry, especially for those unresponsive to conventional antidepressants. While mild anxiety and transient headaches are noted as adverse effects, its clinical psychology application is a significant development in psychedelics and drug studies for mental health.
Abstract
Abstract Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a significant public health concern, and current treatments often have limitations in effec...
Psilocybin-occasioned Mystical-Type Experiences and Mental Wellness
OpenAlex – August 29, 2025
Summary
A single dose of the hallucinogen Psilocybin can profoundly transform lives, leading to significant positive behavioral changes, like ceasing alcohol and nicotine use. Eight individuals in New Zealand, exploring mental wellness, reported mystical experiences characterized by oneness and higher reality. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggest that such experiences, rooted in Psychology, foster personal growth and spiritual well-being. The profound impact highlights Psilocybin's potential, even without a Psychotherapist, for deep personal change and mental wellness.
Abstract
<p><strong>Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms, has gained increasing attention for its potential therapeu...
Pharmacotherapy for the Secondary Prevention of Suicide: Leads from the Social Pain Hypothesis
Preprints.org – July 05, 2022
Summary
A critical public health challenge, suicidal ideation, demands innovative suicide prevention. Existing medicine offers limited efficacy. Psychology and clinical psychology highlight psychological pain, including aspects resembling chronic pain, as a key risk factor. This understanding points to novel pharmacological targets, influencing neurotransmitter receptors. Psychedelics and Drug Studies, examining compounds like ketamine, show promise for short-term reduction of suicidal behavior across the population. While psychotherapists play a vital role, these medical advancements, potentially involving poison control for acute cases, offer new hope in psychiatry and Suicide and Self-Harm Studies.
Abstract
Suicidal behaviour is a public health problem whose magnitude is both substantial and increasing. Since many individuals seek medical treatment fol...
Reappraisal of the hype and hope offered by psilocybin treatment of depression
New Zealand Medical Journal – September 15, 2025
Summary
Early findings suggest psilocybin holds promise for depression, a significant area in Psychology and Mental Health. However, a review of Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveals methodological challenges like expectation bias. While generally well tolerated, side effects are often not systematically reported, and some recipients may experience harm. Comparing with ketamine for treatment-resistant depression shows similar issues, but ketamine's positive evidence is currently stronger. Therefore, the current data on psilocybin's efficacy and safety in Psychotherapy Techniques and Applications is insufficient to warrant wider availability for depression treatment.
Abstract
aim: To provide a balanced account of psilocybin treatment of depression for expectations to be appropriately set. method: Review and discussion of...
Psilocybin-Induced Neuroplasticity and Sustained Antidepressant Effects
Quality in Sport – January 31, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychological intervention rapidly reduces depressive symptoms, with effects lasting six months in some treatment-resistant depression protocols. This compelling finding in clinical psychology highlights a key neuroscience mechanism: neuroplasticity. Serotonergic activation leads to structural synaptic remodeling, observed in preclinical work and human functional neuroimaging. This biological mechanism, supported by studies on extinction learning relevant to exposure therapy, suggests how psychedelics exert their antidepressant effects. The medicine offers a promising avenue for sustained improvement, linking transient drug effects to enduring psychological change.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted interventions have shown rapid reductions in depressive symptoms in controlled clinical settings, raising questions about biolo...
Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy in Palliative Care
Oxford University Press eBooks – December 01, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy is re-emerging as a powerful psychological intervention for profound end-of-life distress. Despite advances in palliative care medicine, psychiatric and existential anguish persist, often unaddressed. Contemporary research in Psychiatry and Psychology is now examining psilocybin, delivered by a psychotherapist, to alleviate this suffering. Building on earlier Psychedelics and Drug Studies, this approach, encompassing Chemical synthesis and alkaloids and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, offers a potential paradigm shift. It explores safety and efficacy data to transform end-of-life well-being.
Abstract
Abstract Following a decades-long hiatus and building on an innovative research model first developed from the 1960s to 1970s utilizing psychedelic...
Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant OCD: A Randomized Controlled Trial
OpenAlex – January 15, 2026
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, dramatically reduced severe obsessive compulsive symptoms. In a randomized controlled trial, 69.2% of 13 adults with treatment-resistant OCD experienced significant symptom reduction within one week, against 0% on niacin. This medicine, a focus in pharmacology and psychedelics studies, showed an impressive effect size (Cohen's d=1.64), with scores decreasing by 9.83 points. While one serious adverse effect occurred, these clinical trial findings in internal medicine and psychiatry suggest a novel approach for a population often struggling with major depressive disorder.
Abstract
Background: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects 2-3% of the population worldwide. 40-60% of patients do not respond to first-line intervent...
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...
Psilocybin inhibits formalin-induced nociception through 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor in rats
Behavioural Pharmacology – September 25, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics show promise for pain relief. Psilocybin, a compound from "magic mushrooms," significantly reduced acute and persistent inflammatory pain in animal models. Rats receiving 0.1 or 0.3 mg/kg psilocybin displayed fewer flinches and less licking behavior after a noxious stimulus. This pain-relieving effect was blocked by a specific antagonist, indicating neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. These findings contribute to Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, suggesting psilocybin activates particular receptors to alleviate pain, advancing drug studies.
Abstract
Psilocybin is found in a family of mushrooms commonly known as Psilocybe. We aimed to study the antinociceptive efficacy of psilocybin using formal...
A novel psychedelic 5-HT 2A receptor agonist GM-2505: The pharmacokinetic, safety, and pharmacodynamic profile from a randomized trial healthy volunteer
Journal of Psychopharmacology – October 16, 2025
Summary
A new compound, GM-2505, a product of chemical synthesis and alkaloids, shows promise in psychedelics and drug studies for depression. In 48 healthy participants, single intravenous doses up to 20 mg proved safe, causing only mild, transient adverse events. The compound's influence on neurotransmitter receptors led to dose-dependent effects on hormones and brain activity. Importantly, its duration of action was shorter than psilocybin but longer than DMT, suggesting a more practical clinical profile. An optimal dose range appears to be 10-15 mg.
Abstract
Background: The treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) with available antidepressant drugs is characterized by considerable ineffectiveness. ...
Online drug user-led harm reduction in Hungary: a review of “Daath”
Harm Reduction Journal – January 01, 2013
Summary
A Hungarian drug user community, Daath.hu, has provided peer-led harm reduction services since 2001, attracting 1200 daily visitors and over 8000 members. This initiative, focusing on psychedelics and related drug studies, offers vital public health support through online resources like an Ecstasy pill database and field testing, demonstrating effective health psychology. Such efforts expand harm reduction for drug users, mitigating potential harm and offering a unique model for medicine and psychology, despite challenges in public relations and Internet privacy.
Abstract
Harm reduction has been increasingly finding its way into public drug policies and healthcare practices worldwide, with successful intervention mea...
Geschichte der Anwendung von Psychedelika
Nervenheilkunde – June 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics, substances with a history spanning millennia, are experiencing a profound resurgence in scientific and medical interest. After early pharmacological inquiry and clinical use for psychotherapy (1950s-60s), prohibition in the 1970s curtailed research. Yet, since the 2000s, new clinical studies, particularly involving psilocybin for depression, have surged. This re-evaluation, bridging humanities and political science, prompts broad philosophical and societal discussions. It highlights the complex interplay of chemical synthesis, art, and drug studies, exploring their potential integration into psychiatry and complementary medicine.
Abstract
ZUSAMMENFASSUNG Die menschliche Nutzung heute als psychedelisch bezeichneter Substanzen erfolgt bereits seit Jahrtausenden. Die wissenschaftliche U...
Fallbeispiele zur Therapie der rezidivierenden Depression mit Psilocybin
Nervenheilkunde – April 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a synthesized alkaloid, shows immense potential in treating recurrent depression, offering new avenues in Psychology and Medicine. Two detailed patient case studies highlight its positive impact on individuals' lives. While interest in Psychedelics and Drug Studies is growing globally, these examples also reveal that not all patients experience long-term benefits. This nuanced perspective is crucial for understanding Psilocybin's broader therapeutic role, potentially informing Body Image and Dysmorphia Studies.
Abstract
ZUSAMMENFASSUNG Der Artikel stellt 2 Behandlungsverläufe von Patienten mit rezidivierender Depression gegenüber, welche mit Psilocybin behandelt wu...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for individuals with palliative care needs: A systematic review of safety and efficacy
Palliative Medicine – December 18, 2025
Summary
For patients facing end-of-life challenges, psilocybin-assisted therapy dramatically reduces depression and anxiety. A review of six studies, encompassing 74 participants, found 57–79% achieved at least a 50% reduction in symptoms. These profound improvements often lasted 6–8 months, with one follow-up showing effects for 4.5 years. Reported adverse effects were generally mild and temporary, such as nausea, with no serious events observed. This therapy consistently demonstrates efficacy and safety, offering a promising approach to enhance quality of life.
Abstract
Background: Palliative Care is concerned with relieving suffering and improving the quality of life of patients and their families. Currently, ques...
Psychedelics for depression: from neurobiology to treatment
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2023
Summary
Remarkably, a single or double dose of psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, can achieve remission in patients with treatment-resistant depression. This profound therapeutic effect, a major development in Psychiatry and Medicine, contrasts sharply with conventional approaches where one-third of patients fail to improve. The rapid onset of this therapeutic approach is fueling interest in Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Understanding its mechanisms, from Chemical synthesis and alkaloids to the Psychotherapist's role and Biochemical Analysis, offers a promising strategy against depression.
Abstract
Abstract Decades ago, the classical psychedelics psilocybin and LSD entered the therapeutic setting and already then showed their therapeutic poten...
The Experience Elicited by Hallucinogens Presents the Highest Similarity to Dreaming within a Large Database of Psychoactive Substance Reports
Frontiers in Neuroscience – January 22, 2018
Summary
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) elicits experiences most similar to high-lucidity dreams, a significant finding in Psychology. A semantic similarity (geometry) analysis of a large volume of subjective reports confirmed this hallucinogen, a potent psychoactive substance, mirrors dream states more closely than other drugs. This work in Psychedelics and Drug Studies explores altered states of consciousness, showing hallucinogens have the highest dream-like similarity. Understanding these effects, potentially linked to Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, could inform future Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques.
Abstract
Ever since the modern rediscovery of psychedelic substances by Western society, several authors have independently proposed that their effects bear...
Adolescent Psychedelic Use and Psychotic or Manic Symptoms
JAMA Psychiatry – March 13, 2024
Summary
Adolescents using psychedelics naturally showed *reduced* psychotic symptoms after accounting for other drug use, with an effect size around -0.79. A large twin study of 16,255 individuals in Psychiatry and Psychology found that among 541 psychedelic users (99% also used cannabis), this association held. However, a genetic predisposition to Bipolar disorder or schizophrenia increased the risk of mania with psychedelic use. This underscores complex interactions in adolescent medicine regarding drug studies and mental health, crucial for clinical psychology.
Abstract
Importance While psychedelic-assisted therapy has shown promise in the treatment of certain psychiatric disorders, little is known about the potent...
631. PSILOCYBIN AND KETANSERIN VS RTMS IN TREATMENT-RESISTANT DEPRESSION: ENHANCING TOLERABILITY BY MITIGATING PSYCHEDELIC EFFECTS
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – August 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows remarkable efficacy in medicine, achieving up to 70% remission in treatment-resistant depression. Its psychedelic effects, however, can complicate psychology studies. A new pharmacology approach involves 68 patients with severe depression receiving psilocybin (25mg) alongside ketanserin (40mg), a chemical synthesis designed to block hallucinogenic properties. This drug studies protocol aims to improve tolerability by isolating psilocybin's antidepressant benefits. Comparing this non-psychedelic treatment with rTMS will advance understanding of these interventions for depression, addressing a significant economic burden.
Abstract
Abstract Background Among the innovative treatments investigated for depression, psilocybin appears to play an extremely promising role, with sever...
The Emerging Use of Psilocybin in Adult Populations with Alcohol Use Disorder: A Scoping Review
Preprints.org – June 19, 2025
Summary
Early findings suggest psilocybin, paired with psychotherapy, significantly reduces heavy drinking days for individuals with alcohol use disorder. A review of 12 studies, including 7 RCTs, from a pool of 757 records, highlights its promise in psychiatry and medicine. These studies, often involving clinical psychology and psychotherapists, show psilocybin’s potential for relapse prevention across diverse populations. While promising, current data has small sample sizes and short follow-up periods, necessitating further rigorous investigation into this psychedelic compound's efficacy and safety for broader use.
Abstract
Background: Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a chronic pathological condition with significant burdens throughout the world. Despite the effectiveness...
Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy in Hospice and Palliative Care
Revista Cacto - Ciência Arte Comunicação em Transdisciplinaridade Online – April 03, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers profound relief in palliative and hospice care. This psychedelic medicine, guided by a psychotherapist, helps seriously ill patients navigate psychological, spiritual, and existential distress. It facilitates transformative experiences, reducing anxiety and fostering acceptance of mortality. Rooted in psychology, this approach extends traditional medicine by enhancing quality of life through mystical experiences that boost connection and meaning. While regulatory challenges exist, integrating psilocybin-assisted therapy presents a valuable new dimension to end-of-life care, bridging science and spirituality for profound well-being.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) has gained recognition as an innovative intervention in hospice and palliative care, demonstrating potential in m...
Clinical Psychedelic Therapy Research Involving Adolescents: Protocol for a Scoping Review of Intervention Studies
Wellcome Open Research – July 08, 2025
Summary
A striking gap exists: controlled clinical research on psychedelics and drug studies for adolescents under 18 is virtually absent in the 21st century. While compounds like psilocybin, often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, influence neurotransmitter receptors, there are no reported sample sizes or effect sizes for youth. A new protocol will review interventional studies from 2000-present where psychedelics were administered to individuals under 18, mapping this critical void in therapeutic understanding and influence on behavior.
Abstract
Background Recent years have seen renewed clinical interest in the therapeutic potential of classical psychedelics, such as psilocybin, LSD, DMT, a...
Effects of psilocybin on personality, psychiatric symptoms, and values: Exploring mediating effects of the acute psychedelic experience
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 26, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, significantly shifts personal values, a key area in psychology. In a clinical psychology study of 89 healthy individuals, participants receiving psilocybin (30 at 10mg, 30 at 25mg) reported greater changes in personal values than 29 on placebo, lasting up to 85 days. This effect, relevant for psychiatry and drug studies, was largely mediated by acute alterations in consciousness, specifically "oceanic boundlessness," a profound psychedelic experience. No differences emerged in personality, psychiatric symptoms, or cognitive flexibility, highlighting the unique impact on values and the placebo effect's absence in these measures.
Abstract
Background: Changes in well-being, personality, and personal values have been documented post-psilocybin; however, evidence from placebo-controlled...
The therapeutic efficacy of psilocybin in major depressive disorder: A review of recent clinical and mechanistic evidence
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – January 26, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers rapid, sustained antidepressant effects for major depressive disorder. Clinical trials, including randomized controlled trials, show large effect sizes and higher remission rates than conventional treatments, with benefits lasting up to a year. Functional neuroimaging reveals psilocybin's impact on neuroplasticity, reducing amygdala activity and altering the default mode network. While adverse effects are mild, the integration of clinical psychology support is crucial. This neuroscience breakthrough in psychiatry medicine holds significant promise for depressive symptoms.
Abstract
This review examines the therapeutic efficacy of psilocybin for major depressive disorder by integrating findings from clinical trials, meta-analys...
Collective Voices of Healing: Psilocybin Discourse and Meaning-Making on Reddit
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – November 18, 2025
Summary
Analyzing over 19,000 Reddit posts across 40 psychology-related topics reveals trauma as the dominant psychological distress, accounting for the highest engagement from 400,000+ upvotes and comments. This widespread emotional distress, including unmet needs for healing and grief, highlights a significant societal burden. Psilocybin, within frameworks like The Magic Church, offers potential. Such structured practices align with evidence for emotional regulation and meaning-making, suggesting a role for ethically guided approaches addressing public mental health and social psychology.
Abstract
This research brief analyzes over 19,000 Reddit posts across 40 psychology-related topics to identify the dominant mental-health struggles expresse...
Exploring Determinants of Psilocybin Acceptance as an Alternative Modality for Major Depressive Disorder: A Pilot Study
Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medical Research – December 16, 2025
Summary
For young adults with major depressive disorder, perceived benefits are the strongest predictor of accepting psilocybin-assisted therapy (beta = 0.584). Among 33 participants, a model incorporating health beliefs explained 83.9% of the variance in acceptance, significantly up from 25.6% with initial factors. This suggests that emphasizing psilocybin's efficacy can boost acceptance, especially important given 30% of patients are treatment-resistant. Tailored communication strategies are crucial for increasing uptake of novel therapies.
Abstract
Introduction: Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects over 21 million adults in the U.S (NIMH, 2023) and remains a significant public health challe...
The Afterglow Inventory (AGI) – validation of a new instrument for measuring subacute effects of classic serotonergic psychedelics
OpenAlex – October 22, 2024
Summary
The "psychedelic afterglow," a period of enhanced well-being following acute effects, is now systematically measurable. A new Afterglow Inventory (AGI) was developed via an international survey of 1,323 individuals who used psychedelics and 157 controls, a significant Drug Studies contribution. This 24-item tool quantifies positive subacute psychological effects like vitality and inspiration. The AGI score correlated with acute experience intensity (r=0.165) and positive valence (r=0.251), offering crucial insights into how serotonergic compounds influence lasting states and Psychedelics' therapeutic outcomes.
Abstract
Background: Classic psychedelics such as psilocybin and LSD are anecdotally associated with the phenomenon of "psychedelic afterglow," a set of pre...
Safety, feasibility, and tolerability of psilocybin in older adults with amnestic MCI: Preliminary data from a SV2a PET imaging study
Alzheimer s & Dementia – December 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a medicine for cognitive decline, shows promising tolerability. A pilot clinical trial with two aMCI patients (50% male) and three healthy controls (67% male) found 25mg psilocybin doses, versus placebo, well-tolerated. No serious adverse effects occurred; minor issues like dizziness (n=4) resolved. Neuroscience and psychiatry animal studies suggest psilocybin enhances cognition and cognitive flexibility through effects on the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. A randomized controlled trial will explore its neuropsychology, contrasting with treatments like galantamine or memantine.
Abstract
Abstract Background Amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) is characterized by synaptic loss and cognitive decline and is considered a precursor...
Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for Severe Alcohol Use Disorder: Protocol for a Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, 7-month Parallel-Group Phase II Superiority Trial
Research Square (Research Square) – January 04, 2024
Summary
A promising new intervention aims to tackle severe alcohol use disorder. A double-blind, randomized controlled trial will involve 62 participants, exploring psilocybin-assisted therapy within a robust inpatient rehabilitation context. One group receives 30mg psilocybin, while another gets an active 5mg placebo, alongside counseling. This clinical psychology and psychiatry study, part of broader psychedelics and drug studies, will assess changes in drinking behavior and neurocognitive mechanisms, examining how this alkaloid influences neurotransmitter receptors. This medicine aims to offer a new path for those struggling with addiction.
Abstract
Abstract Background: A significant number of individuals with alcohol use disorder remain unresponsive to currently available treatments, which cal...
Hallucinogens: Magic Mushrooms, Ayahuasca, Mescal Buttons, and Dr. Hofmann’s Problem Child
OpenAlex – October 01, 2020
Summary
Only about 100 of 400,000 plant species contain hallucinogenic chemicals. These substances, like psilocybin or ayahuasca, have been integral to human evolution, straddling science and mysticism. Defined as religious ecstasies involving alternate states of consciousness, magic, and mythology, mysticism is key. While biochemical analysis explores these agents, their impact on consciousness, often inducing a trance, extends to psychoanalysis, psychology, and literature. Psychedelics, enriching the mind, inspire art and aesthetics. Drug studies reveal their profound influence.
Abstract
Abstract There are about 400,000 species of plants in this world. Only a small fraction, perhaps 100 in number, contain hallucinogenic chemicals. N...
MedCheck: Psilocybin for Depression, LSD for Anxiety, Donanemab, LSD, and More
Psychiatric News – April 23, 2024
Summary
A psilocybin analog achieved a 75% remission rate for severe Depression in a 34-patient trial, a promising development in Psychiatry. This potent Hallucinogen, alongside Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), is gaining traction in Clinical psychology. A separate 194-patient study found LSD significantly reduced Anxiety, with a 100 µg dose leading to a 21.3-point average reduction. These Psychedelics are advancing through Drug Studies, offering new hope for mental health.
Abstract
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Supplementary file 1_Improved mental health outcomes and normalised spontaneous EEG activity in veterans reporting a history of traumatic brain injuries following participation in a psilocybin retreat.docx
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – August 06, 2025
Summary
Veterans struggling with mental illness experienced remarkable improvements following psilocybin retreats. Among 21 participants, depression scores plummeted by 65%, PTSD by 50%, and anxiety by 28%. Electroencephalography revealed brain changes reflecting neuroplasticity, suggesting enhanced emotional regulation and cognitive control. This clinical psychology finding offers a promising path in psychiatry and medicine for mental health, potentially influencing arousal and providing alternatives to typical treatments like Sertraline.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, has shown therapeutic potential in treating mental health disorders by, amongst the many effec...