1623 results for "LSD"
People of color in North America report improvements in racial trauma and mental health symptoms following psychedelic experiences
Drugs Education Prevention and Policy – December 10, 2020
Summary
A single psychedelic experience, often involving psilocybin, may significantly reduce mental health symptoms stemming from racism. An internet survey of 313 Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) revealed moderate reductions in traumatic stress (d=-.45), depression (d=-.52), and anxiety (d=-.53) in the 30 days post-use. This suggests a powerful role for hallucinogens in clinical psychology and psychiatry. Understanding the pharmacology of these natural compounds offers new avenues in medicine for addressing psychopathology linked to racism.
Abstract
This study examined how psychedelics reduced symptoms of racial trauma among black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) subsequent to an experi...
Knowledge, Perceptions, and Use of Psychedelics among Individuals with Fibromyalgia
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – January 10, 2022
Summary
Among a population with Fibromyalgia, 11 of 12 individuals using hallucinogens like psilocybin or Lysergic acid diethylamide specifically for chronic pain reported improved symptoms. A survey of 354 North American adults revealed 29.9% had used a psychedelic, with 36.8% perceiving positive effects on their health. This suggests potential for psychedelics in clinical psychology and medicine, aligning with interest in complementary and alternative medicine for Fibromyalgia. Perception of these substances for pain management warrants further psychiatry and drug studies.
Abstract
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a difficult to treat chronic pain condition for which there is strong interest in alternative treatments. There is growing int...
Drugs of Abuse Monitoring in Blood for Control of Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring – April 01, 2002
Summary
Driving under the influence is a critical public safety issue; forensic toxicology is crucial for detection. A comprehensive review details analytical chemistry procedures for over 20 drugs in blood, vital for identifying impaired drivers. Covered are stimulants like Amphetamine, Methamphetamine, MDMA; opiates such as Codeine, Morphine, Methadone; and hallucinogens including Lysergic acid diethylamide, Psilocybin. Benzoylecgonine, Gamma hydroxybutyrate, and various cannabinoids, including synthetic cannabinoids and designer drugs, are also addressed. Chromatography methods underpin this pharmacology, informing poison control, medicine, and advancing drug studies.
Abstract
Driving under the influence of drugs is an issue of growing concern in the industrialized countries as a risk and a cause for road accidents. In fo...
Methoxetamine (MXE) – A Phenomenological Study of Experiences Induced by a “Legal High” from the Internet
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – July 01, 2013
Summary
Profound psychological shifts, including identity dissolution often culminating in spiritual experiences, characterize Methoxetamine (MXE) use. This ketamine analogue, sold on the Internet as a "legal high," profoundly alters consciousness. Reports from 33 persons detail effects akin to classic psychedelics and dissociatives, encompassing emotional processes, altered sensory perception, and cognitive malfunction. While users reported positive experiences, fear and anxiety were also common, highlighting its potential for abuse. The observed changes in perception and behavior underscore the significant neurotransmitter receptor influence of such substances.
Abstract
Methoxetamine (MXE), a ketamine analogue, is one of the new "legal highs" sold on the Internet. The aim of this qualitative study was to provide an...
Restructuring consciousness –the psychedelic state in light of integrated information theory
Frontiers in Human Neuroscience – June 12, 2015
Summary
Psychedelic drugs like psilocybin dramatically alter consciousness, offering a unique window into psychology and cognitive science. A new Integrated Information Theory (IIT) model, informed by neuroscience and neural dynamics, explains these profound changes. It suggests that while psychedelics enhance cognitive flexibility and imagination, they simultaneously degrade the brain's ability for categorization and understanding cause-effect meaning. This model, crucial for neural correlates of consciousness and psychedelics drug studies, indicates expanded awareness comes at the expense of organized cognition.
Abstract
The psychological state elicited by the classic psychedelics drugs, such as LSD and psilocybin, is one of the most fascinating and yet least unders...
The Potential Role of Serotonergic Hallucinogens in Depression Treatment
Life – July 29, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, demonstrates remarkable promise for treating depressive symptoms. A review of 14 clinical trials from the last 10 years in Psychedelics and Drug Studies found this serotonergic compound, derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, significantly reduced depression. One study even showed psilocybin's efficacy comparable to escitalopram, a standard medicine. No serious adverse effect was reported. This Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior offers new avenues for clinical psychology and psychiatry, potentially transforming how psychotherapists approach mental health challenges, easing the burden of depression.
Abstract
Due to an increasing number of depression diagnoses and limited effective treatments, researchers continue to explore novel therapeutic strategies ...
Evaluating the Potential Use of Serotonergic Psychedelics in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Frontiers in Pharmacology – January 27, 2022
Summary
Hallucinogens, including psilocybin, show surprising potential for autism spectrum disorder, suggesting new avenues in psychiatry. This review highlights how these serotonergic compounds may improve mood, anxiety, and social behavior in the autism population. Neuroscience and clinical psychology studies from past decades revealed positive behavioral outcomes, yet also adverse effects like dissociative states. Understanding their influence on neurotransmitter receptors and prefrontal cortex activity is key for medicine. Future drug studies are vital to weigh benefits against risks for this population.
Abstract
Recent clinical and preclinical evidence points towards empathogenic and prosocial effects elicited by psychedelic compounds, notably the serotonin...
Novel antidepressant drugs: Beyond monoamine targets
CNS Spectrums – September 30, 2021
Summary
Millions struggle with Major depressive disorder, yet current antidepressant medicine targeting monoamine neurotransmitters like dopamine often fails on efficacy or tolerability. New pharmacology in psychiatry and psychology is exploring pathways beyond these. For instance, nine glutamatergic and GABAergic drugs are in development. Furthermore, Psychedelics and Drug Studies show promise, with compounds like psilocybin, relevant to tryptophan and brain disorders, offering novel treatment of Major Depression. This expanded strategy aims for superior outcomes.
Abstract
Abstract Treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) including treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a major unmet need. Although there are...
Psilocybin in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder: What do we know so far?
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2021
Summary
Promising findings suggest psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, may offer relief for obsessive-compulsive disorder. One open-label clinical trial observed acute reductions in obsessive-compulsive symptoms, sparking interest across psychology and psychiatry. This initial data is encouraging for medicine and clinical psychology, prompting further rigorous clinical trials. These investigations aim to solidify psilocybin's potential in mental health research topics, exploring new therapeutic avenues for psychotherapists and advancing psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin is a naturally occurring plant alkaloid in mushrooms and a prodrug of psilocin. It is a serotonin receptor (5-HT2A) agonist...
Serotonergic Hyperactivity as a Potential Factor in Developmental, Acquired and Drug-Induced Synesthesia
Frontiers in Human Neuroscience – January 01, 2013
Summary
A compelling Neuroscience insight suggests excessive serotonin levels may unify synesthesia's varied forms. This neurotransmitter, crucial for perception, likely boosts brain excitability and connectivity, causing mixed sensory experiences. From developmental and acquired cases to drug-induced synesthesia (explored in Psychedelics and Drug Studies), heightened serotonergic activity appears central. This finding, relevant to Psychology and Medicine, supported by Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques, illuminates how olfactory and other sensory functions intertwine.
Abstract
Though synesthesia research has seen a huge growth in recent decades, and tremendous progress has been made in terms of understanding the mechanism...
Central Aromatic Amine Levels and Behavior
Archives of Neurology – July 01, 1963
Summary
The profound impact of biogenic amines like Serotonin on behavior is a core focus in Psychology and Drug Studies. Pharmacology reveals how agents modulate these crucial compounds. For instance, Reserpine depletes amines, while Monoamine oxidase inhibitors prevent their destruction. Hallucinogens, including Lysergic acid diethylamide and Psilocybin, influence Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior by blocking or mimicking amine actions. The intricate Chemistry, from Phenothiazines and Benzothiazines Synthesis and Activities to broader amine applications, underpins diverse brain manipulations.
Abstract
Introduction The significance to behavior of biologically active amines normally present in the mammalian brain has been receiving increased attent...
Mycotherapy: Potential of Fungal Bioactives for the Treatment of Mental Health Disorders and Morbidities of Chronic Pain
Journal of Fungi – March 11, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, reveals rapid, long-lasting antidepressant and anxiolytic effects for mental health challenges. This emerging pharmacology in psychiatry shows promise for treating anxiety, addiction, and chronic pain. Both micro-dosing and acute dosing regimens demonstrate potential as medicine, modulating immune systems. Such psychedelics, derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, represent a significant area for drug studies within complementary and alternative medicine, providing new hope for patients.
Abstract
Mushrooms have been used as traditional medicine for millennia, fungi are the main natural source of psychedelic compounds. There is now increasing...
Patterns, Trends, and Meanings of Drug Use by Dance-drug Users in Edinburgh, Scotland
Drugs Education Prevention and Policy – June 01, 2004
Summary
Over 40% of clubbers report anxiety and paranoia, stemming from drug use. A survey of 124 individuals revealed widespread use, with over 80% consuming alcohol, cannabis, and Ecstasy, and 63% using cocaine. These participants, often within dance scenes, cited relaxation and socializing as primary reasons. However, 44% admitted taking too many drugs, and 19% engaged in drug-driving. This psychological data is crucial for clinical psychology, informing medicine and psychiatry regarding substance abuse treatment and outcomes, particularly concerning paranoia and anxiety associated with psychedelics and other drugs.
Abstract
A survey of drug use in the past year was completed by 124 clubbers (50% male, 50% female, age range 14–44, mean 24 years). Participants were self ...
Heaven and Hell—A Phenomenological Study of Recreational Use of 4-HO-MET in Sweden
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – July 01, 2011
Summary
Users of the psychedelic 4-HO-MET describe profound shifts between "heaven" and "hell," yet remain satisfied and curious for more. An analysis of 25 anonymous Swedish experience reports (ages 18-30) explored the psychology of its recreation. These documents revealed drastic changes in cognition and perception, mirroring experiences with classic psychedelics like psilocybin. Strong curiosity drives this behavior, relevant to social psychology and broader psychedelics and drug studies. Understanding the substance's impact on neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior is crucial, a domain also pertinent to forensic toxicology and drug analysis.
Abstract
The psychoactive substance 4-HO-MET (4-hydroxy-N-methyl-N-ethyltryptamine) with psychedelic qualities is one of many legal so-called Internet drugs...
Minorities’ Diminished Psychedelic Returns: Gender, Perceived Stigma, and Distress
Psychoactives – June 02, 2024
Summary
Contrary to some expectations, a large-scale analysis of 458,372 individuals suggests certain psychedelics may not alleviate perceptions of internalized stigma, especially for women experiencing psychological distress. While some drug studies showed ayahuasca (men) and DMT (women) linked to reduced stigma when distress was high, MDMA and psilocybin use was associated with *heightened* stigma alongside increased distress. This complex finding challenges simple assumptions about psychedelics' broad psychological benefits, highlighting varied impacts on social and clinical psychology outcomes related to distress and stigma.
Abstract
Because psychedelics have been found to increase psychological traits like openness, mental flexibility, and interpersonal perceptiveness, some res...
Exploring protective associations between the use of classic psychedelics and cocaine use disorder: a population-based survey study
Scientific Reports – February 16, 2022
Summary
Strikingly, lifetime peyote use significantly reduces the odds of Cocaine Use Disorder (CUD) by over 50% (Odds ratio: 0.47). A comprehensive logistic regression analysis of 214,505 U.S. adults, addressing a major public health and addiction challenge, revealed this finding. While other classic psychedelics showed no such protective effect, peyote also lowered odds for seven of eleven CUD criteria. This insight from drug studies and clinical psychology offers promising directions for medicine and psychiatry in developing new treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Cocaine Use Disorder (CUD) is a significant public health problem associated with elevated morbidity and mortality within the United State...
Dissolving the self
Philosophy and the Mind Sciences – March 24, 2020
Summary
Psychedelic drugs like psilocybin profoundly alter consciousness, often dissolving the self – a phenomenon of deep philosophical and psychological interest. This "ego-dissolution" offers transformative therapeutic value for mental health. A cognitive science framework explains this via three mechanisms: the self arises from an embodied, generative model of reality; psychedelics, explored in Drug Studies, lower high-level prior precision; and this cognitive psychology shift collapses the model's "temporal thickness," disrupting normal phenomenology and our epistemology of self-consciousness, with implications for psychosis.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin, LSD and DMT are known to induce powerful alterations in phenomenology. Perhaps of most philosophical and scie...
Psychedelic treatment of functional neurological disorder: a systematic review
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2020
Summary
Sixty-nine percent of patients with Functional Neurological Disorder (formerly **Conversion disorder**) experienced recovery in early **psychedelics and drug studies**. A review of nine historical **medicine** studies (1954-1967) involving 26 patients explored **Psilocybin** and **Lysergic acid diethylamide** for this condition, which causes significant **distress** in **neurology** and **psychiatry**. Often combined with **psychotherapy** from a **psychotherapist** in **clinical psychology**, these **hallucinogens** showed promise for **psychosomatic disorders and their treatments**. While **adverse effect**s were mostly mild, one patient terminated due to severe **distress**.
Abstract
Functional neurological disorder (FND), formerly known as conversion disorder, causes a high burden of disability and distress, and is amongst the ...
Ethnoracial health disparities and the ethnopsychopharmacology of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies.
Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology – June 07, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics, used in psychotherapy, offer significant hope for treating psychiatric conditions like PTSD and depression, advancing Clinical psychology and Medicine. Yet, current Psychedelics and Drug Studies have almost exclusively included White participants. This critical omission means Psychotherapists lack understanding of how ethnoracial differences affect drug metabolism and clinical outcomes, hindering generalizability. Expanding research to include diverse populations, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, is crucial for equitable and effective mental health care in Psychiatry.
Abstract
Emerging evidence from randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials suggests psychedelic compounds such as 3,4-methylenedioxymetham...
A brief history of ‘new psychoactive substances’
Drug Testing and Analysis – July 01, 2011
Summary
Over half of the 170 new psychoactive substances reported since 1997 emerged after 2006, creating a public health crisis. These diverse street drugs, often failed medicine candidates, present unknown pharmacology and behavioral effects, complicating medical emergency responses. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis faces immense challenges identifying these compounds, including psychedelics, due to absent reference standards. Understanding their Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior is vital for psychiatry, but scarce data on these psychoactive substances raises serious concerns about future health impacts.
Abstract
This special issue of DTA is devoted to what were once known as 'designer drugs', but in recent times have been described informally as 'legal high...
The Psychedelic Future of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment
Current Neuropharmacology – January 05, 2024
Summary
With 12 million U.S. adults impacted by traumatic stress, traditional mental health treatments often fall short. Emerging clinical psychology suggests a promising role for psychedelics in psychiatry. Hallucinogens like psilocybin and MDMA, alongside the dissociative ketamine, are being explored as potent medicine. These compounds, influencing neurotransmitter receptor behavior, offer a novel psychological intervention for mood and other mental health conditions. Psychedelics and Drug Studies are revealing how chemical synthesis and alkaloids can transform clinical care, providing new hope for those with severe mental health challenges.
Abstract
Abstract: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur following exposure to a traumatic experience. An estima...
Out of Harm's Way?: Illicit Drug Use, Medicalization and the Law
The British Journal of Criminology – October 01, 2003
Summary
British drug policy, driven by medicalization and perceived harm, overemphasizes law enforcement. A new sociological analysis of illicit drug use, relevant to criminology and law, proposes a fundamental shift. It develops a social classification that aligns with calls for harm reduction, advocating a move from enforcement-led strategies. This political science perspective supports downgrading Cannabis and Ecstasy, and suggests extending reclassification to magic mushrooms and cocaine, paving the way for broader legal reform.
Abstract
Although British drugs policy has become increasingly contested, debate in this area has continued along well-established lines. Recent reviews, in...
The use of illicit drugs as self-medication in the treatment of cluster headache: Results from an Italian online survey
Cephalalgia – April 22, 2015
Summary
All 54 cluster headache patients surveyed were dissatisfied with conventional Medicine, prompting many to explore illicit drug alternatives. In these Migraine and Headache Studies, 63% used cannabinoids, 33% tried Psilocybin, and 7% used Lysergic acid diethylamide. Alarmingly, 8 patients even resorted to Heroin. This use of illicit drugs, including Psychedelics, highlights a trend in Psychiatry. Patients, often finding suggestions online, underestimate legal risks and overestimate safety of these Complementary and Alternative Medicine approaches, impacting the physician-patient dynamic.
Abstract
Background Cluster headache (CH) patients often receive unsatisfactory treatment and may explore illicit substances as alternatives. We aimed to ex...
Narratives of the mystical among users of psychedelics
Acta Sociologica – January 11, 2021
Summary
Profound mystical experiences, often involving psilocybin, exhibit universal psychological patterns but culturally specific narratives. Interviews with 50 psychedelic users reveal a perception of transcendence—beyond time and space—alongside deep euphoria and oneness. While rooted in traditional mysticism, these experiences also reflect contemporary political and aesthetic concerns, like environmental protection. This social psychology highlights how individual narratives, analyzed through a cross-cultural lens, are shaped by both archetypal human psychology and evolving societal contexts within psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
We are now witnessing a radical revival in clinical research on the use of psychedelics (e.g. LSD and psilocybin), where ‘mystical’ experiences are...
Could Hallucinogens Induce Permanent Pupillary Changes in (Ab)users? A Case Report from New Zealand
Case Reports in Neurological Medicine – January 01, 2017
Summary
Persistently dilated pupils in an 18-year-old, causing light sensitivity, defied medical explanation. Ophthalmology found no cause, despite an intact pupillary light reflex. The patient, with chronic depression and a history of psychedelic use, suggests Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior. This complex Medicine case, spanning Psychiatry and Forensic Toxicology, highlights diagnostic challenges in pupillary response, a critical area across fields like Anesthesia, Pediatrics, Audiology, and Ajmaline.
Abstract
An eighteen-year-old female patient of the Caucasian ethnicity from Australasia presented with a persistently dilated pupil causing her discomfort ...
Back to the Future — The Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelic Drugs
New England Journal of Medicine – April 14, 2021
Summary
Mescaline, described by Aldous Huxley as "extraordinary," sparked immense interest in hallucinogens. Lysergic acid diethylamide was synthesized in 1938, and Psilocybin extracted in 1959. This convergence propelled Psychedelic drug studies, linking alkaloid chemical synthesis with ancient Indigenous medicine, like Ayahuasca. Psychiatry and Psychology now explore their potential as medicine. Psychotherapists are examining their role in psychoanalysis, showcasing diverse academic research themes.
Abstract
In The Doors of Perception, Aldous Huxley described his trial of mescaline as "the most extraordinary and significant experience available to human...
Altered stakes: Identifying gaps in the informed consent process for psychedelic-assisted therapy trials
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – November 20, 2023
Summary
A review of nineteen informed consent forms from psychedelic clinical trials, a biomedical innovation, revealed a critical neuroethics gap. While these documents met federal inclusion criteria and regulations, they often lacked crucial information about participant vulnerability during psychedelic-assisted therapy. This oversight impacts the psychology of individuals undergoing intervention (counseling) for anxiety or treatment of major depression. Robust informed consent protocols are vital for the future of psychiatry and medicine, particularly given the unique nature of psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Psychedelic-assisted therapy (P-AT) has been shown to reduce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and an...
Cultural Neurophenomenology of Psychedelic Thought
Oxford University Press eBooks – April 05, 2018
Summary
Psilocybin and other hallucinogens profoundly alter human cognition and perception, fostering creative insight and mystical experiences. Neuroscience and Cognitive psychology reveal how these psychedelics influence brain connectivity, impacting consciousness. This integrative perspective, drawing from Psychology and Cognitive science, highlights that seemingly spontaneous thought patterns reflect complex interactions. Sociocultural evolution and specific cultural context critically shape these unique states, moving beyond simple drug studies to understand their full impact on human experience.
Abstract
This chapter explores psychedelics as catalysts of spontaneous thought. Classic serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca ca...
Psilocybin as an alternative medicine for patients suffering from depression
Psychiatria i Psychologia Kliniczna – September 30, 2016
Summary
Psilocybin, a natural alkaloid, offers significant promise as a medicine for depression. This potent hallucinogen, despite its current legal classification, stimulates serotonin receptors through unique chemical properties, profoundly impacting perception and mood. Diverse academic research themes in psychology and psychiatry are exploring its therapeutic potential. Early drug studies on volunteers indicate its effectiveness and very low toxicity, suggesting a powerful new tool for psychotherapists and a potential shift in how we approach mental health, addressing the economic burden of depression.
Abstract
Psylocybina jest substancją psychodysleptyczną pochodzenia naturalnego, występuje w grzybach rodzaju Psilocybe. Psychodysleptyki są środkami psycho...
Psychedelic-assisted therapy for treating anxiety, depression, and existential distress in people with life-threatening diseases
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews – September 11, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy offers hope for profound relief from severe anxiety, depression, and existential distress, including death anxiety, in those facing life-threatening illness. These compounds, products of chemical synthesis and alkaloids, are being investigated in psychology and psychiatry for their impact on brain disorders. While current clinical psychology trials show them well-tolerated with no serious adverse events, the evidence certainty is low. Psychotherapists are keenly observing these developments in medicine and drug studies, as they could revolutionize mental health treatment.
Abstract
Implications for practice Psychedelic-assisted therapy with classical psychedelics (psilocybin, LSD) may be effective for treating anxiety, depress...
Psychedelics and mindfulness: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – September 16, 2022
Summary
A systematic review of 13 studies, from 1805 screened, compellingly shows that ingesting psychedelics, such as psilocybin and Ayahuasca, significantly enhances mindfulness. These hallucinogens, impacting neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, specifically boost acceptance—non-judgement of inner experience and non-reactivity. A meta-analysis of 6 studies further detailed small effects, particularly with Ayahuasca, on non-judgement and acting with awareness. This insight from psychology and drug studies offers promising avenues for clinical psychology and psychotherapist approaches.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims The benefits of classic serotonergic psychedelics (e.g. psilocybin, LSD, DMT, ayahuasca) are becoming more widely know...
Effects of Ayahuasca on Personality: Results of Two Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trials in Healthy Volunteers
Frontiers in Psychiatry – August 06, 2021
Summary
A compelling psychology finding: the hallucinogen Ayahuasca, a complex plant alkaloid, may influence personality. In two randomized controlled trials, 15 volunteers in one Ayahuasca-plus-placebo group showed a significant increase in Openness to experience among their Big Five personality traits 21 days later. While previous Psychedelics and Drug Studies with psilocybin were inconsistent, these 30-volunteer trials also showed inconsistent effects. Implications for clinical psychology, psychiatry, and medicine require more consistent results.
Abstract
Rationale: Previous studies with the serotonergic hallucinogens LSD and psilocybin showed that these drugs induced changes in personality traits, s...
Psychedelic Epistemology: William James and the “Noetic Quality” of Mystical Experience
Religions – November 29, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics reliably occasion intense mystical experiences, echoing William James's 1902 concept of religious experience and its noetic quality. This epistemological aspect, central to the philosophy of religion, is now measured in drug studies involving chemical synthesis and alkaloids. However, concerns arise in psychology and philosophy: does this inject undue mysticism into science? Debates question the quality of such experiences and their necessity for therapeutic benefits, challenging the epistemology of psychedelic research and biochemical analysis techniques.
Abstract
William James proposed in 1902 that states of mystical experience, central to his idea of religious experience, can be identified based on their in...
The Acceptance/Avoidance-Promoting Experiences Questionnaire (APEQ): A theory-based approach to psychedelic drugs’ effects on psychological flexibility
Journal of Psychopharmacology – March 01, 2022
Summary
The interplay between acceptance and experiential avoidance during psychedelic experiences profoundly shapes psychological flexibility. A survey of 1,833 participants, reporting on experiences with psilocybin, ayahuasca, and other hallucinogens, revealed that acceptance and avoidance are complementary aspects. Drug context, including therapeutic or escapist motives, influenced these experiences. Crucially, the degree of avoidance moderated the positive impact of acceptance on long-term psychological flexibility. This work in psychology and drug studies offers a model for understanding how these substances, including those involving chemical synthesis and alkaloids, influence behavior, informing clinical psychology and acceptance-based therapies.
Abstract
Background: Many benefits and some harms associated with psychedelic use could be attributable to these drugs’ acceptance/avoidance-promoting effec...
BOOTLEGGED ECSTASY
JAMA – March 07, 1964
Summary
Quiet scientific endeavors exploring Lysergic acid diethylamide and Psilocybin for their potential in Psychiatry haven't yielded medical breakthroughs for psychoses. Instead, these potent hallucinogens have created societal issues. A lack of appropriate publicity has led to widespread misuse, offering personal gratification, pleasure, and a false sense of ecstasy. This unintended consequence underscores complex ethical considerations for psychotherapists and other professionals when examining such compounds, distinct from established treatments like Pimozide.
Abstract
For several years, quietly and without publicity, several scientists have been studying the behavioral pharmacology of lysergic acid diethylamide (...
Is the Requirement for First-Person Experience of Psychedelic Drugs a Justified Component of a Psychedelic Therapist’s Training?
Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics – March 02, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like Psilocybin and MDMA show significant therapeutic potential for conditions from addiction to existential distress, marking a potential step change in Psychiatry. While their value stems from unique experiential learning, questions arise regarding psychotherapist training. Should future psychotherapists undergo hallucinogen experiences themselves? Current thinking suggests requiring such firsthand engagement isn't ethically legitimate without stronger evidence of its unique contribution to understanding psychology. However, permitting voluntary participation in Psychedelics and Drug Studies might be acceptable, acknowledging the diverse academic research themes involved.
Abstract
Abstract Recent research offers good reason to think that various psychedelic drugs—including psilocybin, ayahuasca, ketamine, MDMA, and LSD—may ha...
Trajectories of drug use among French young people: Prototypical stages of involvement in illicit drug use
Journal of Substance Use – January 20, 2016
Summary
Illicit drug use among young people follows distinct patterns. An analysis of 23,882 French 17-year-olds identified two clear groups of illicit drugs (beyond cannabis). The first, including Ecstasy/MDMA and cocaine, typically precedes the second group, featuring drugs like heroin. This distinction in substance use trajectories is crucial for Psychology and Psychiatry, informing targeted prevention within the population, impacting Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes, and future prenatal substance exposure effects.
Abstract
Aims: This study investigated patterns and trajectories of substance use, with a special focus on illicit drugs other than cannabis. It examined bo...
Blinding and Expectancy Confounds in Psychedelic Randomised Controlled Trials
OpenAlex – March 08, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics, with their known neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, are gaining traction in medicine for treating conditions like major depression. However, a meta-analysis of extant randomized controlled trials in clinical psychology reveals that blinding failures and high patient expectancy, explained by expectancy theory, likely inflate reported large effect sizes from these drug studies. Careful attention to clinical trial design is crucial for accurate assessment.
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the potential for psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin, LSD and ketamine to treat a number of mental health disorde...
A persisting perception disorder after cannabis use
Progress in Neurology and Psychiatry – January 01, 2015
Summary
A compelling finding in Psychology and Medicine challenges our understanding of drug-induced disorders. While Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD) is typically linked to classical Psychedelics like Psilocybin and Mescaline, a recent case suggests a broader etiology. A single boy developed HPPD-like symptoms after using Cannabis just seven times. This observation, relevant for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, as well as Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, prompts new questions in Psychiatry regarding Perception and Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, indicating potential links beyond traditional hallucinogens.
Abstract
Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder is a disorder of uncertain aetiology occurring mainly after ‘classical’ hallucinogen use ( ie mescaline...
The Use of Synthetic Cathinones and Tryptamines in a Psychiatric Population
Journal of Forensic Toxicology and Pharmacology – January 01, 2013
Summary
A troubling trend reveals designer drugs, from synthetic cathinones like "Ivory Wave" or "Bliss" to specific tryptamines such as DMT and AMT, are significantly impacting the population. These substances, relevant to Pharmacology and Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, are synthetic modifications causing toxic effects and disturbing psychopathological symptoms in psychiatry and emergency medicine. This highlights a critical, evolving area for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, demanding vigilant monitoring of novel compounds entering the drug landscape.
Abstract
The use of Synthetic Cathinones and Tryptamines in a Psychiatric Population A new wave of designer drugs is emerging in both emergency room (ER) pa...
The Psychotomimetic Drugs
JAMA – March 07, 1964
Summary
Psychedelics profoundly reshape human consciousness, revealing the mind's capacity for extraordinary experiences. Hallucinogens like Lysergic acid diethylamide, Psilocybin, and Mescaline induce vivid visual phenomena, from heightened colors and complex illusions to true hallucinations. Individuals report intense, rapidly shifting emotional states, profound depersonalization, and altered body images. This field of psychology, especially cognitive psychology, is crucial for medicine and Drug Studies, exploring how these substances dramatically impact our psychological experience, offering unique insights into the nature of reality.
Abstract
FOR MANY YEARS several pharmacologically similar drugs—lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD-25), psilocybin, and mescaline, among others—have been of sp...
Ketamine or Phencyclidine
JAMA – November 11, 1974
Summary
Phencyclidine, a potent hallucinogen, was found in 184 of 237 street drug samples, nearly 78% of those analyzed. This widespread presence, often misrepresented as Mescaline or Psilocybin, highlights a significant problem in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Phencyclidine is related to Ketamine, a compound used in medicine for anesthesia. Understanding its pharmacology, particularly its Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, is crucial. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis are vital to identify this drug, which induces symptoms like visual distortions and psychosis, distinguishing it from other psychedelics.
Abstract
To the Editor.— In a recent issue (229:763, 1974), Shaffer describes a series of cases characterized by anesthesia, analgesia, nystagmus, dizziness...
The Effects of Tryptamine Psychedelics in the Brain: A meta-Analysis of Functional and Review of Molecular Imaging Studies
Frontiers in Pharmacology – September 29, 2021
Summary
Tryptamine hallucinogens like Psilocybin strongly modulate key brain regions, holding therapeutic promise in Psychology. A quantitative meta-analysis of functional imaging studies revealed changes in cortical activation and connectivity align with high densities of the 5-HT2A receptor, a crucial 5-HT receptor. Neuroscience shows these psychedelics, often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, influence behavior. Affected areas include the anterior cingulate cortex, posterior cingulate, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and temporal cortex. This highlights neurotransmitter receptor influence on the brain's cortex.
Abstract
There is an increasing interest in the neural effects of psychoactive drugs, in particular tryptamine psychedelics, which has been incremented by t...
ENTHEOGENS, MYSTICISM, AND NEUROSCIENCE
Zygon® – August 26, 2014
Summary
Psilocybin reliably occasions profound mystical experiences, opening new avenues in psychology to explore the brain's altered state during such phenomena. This allows for critical drug studies into the neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. Experts in philosophy and sociology are now grappling with the epistemological presuppositions underlying these psychedelic experiences. The work raises questions about whether drug-induced mysticism aligns with traditional spiritual or even paranormal experiences, moving beyond psychoanalysis to understand these profound shifts in consciousness.
Abstract
Entheogens or psychedelic drugs such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin are associated with mystical states of experience. Drug law...
Psychedelic Therapy: A Primer for Primary Care Clinicians—Historical Perspective and Overview
American Journal of Therapeutics – March 01, 2024
Summary
MDMA, a synthetic drug, demonstrates superiority over existing treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder in two completed Phase III clinical trials. This highlights the growing potential of psychedelics as medicine in psychiatry. While psilocybin, a naturally occurring hallucinogen, shows a 25-29% depression remission rate in larger trials (100+ participants)—comparable to standard antidepressants at 30%—other compounds like lysergic acid diethylamide and the dissociative Esketamine are also being explored. Understanding their pharmacology and potential adverse effects is crucial as these drug studies advance.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelic drugs have recently emerged as plausibly effective pharmacological agents for the management of depression, anxiety, and ot...
Predicting changes in substance use following psychedelic experiences: natural language processing of psychedelic session narratives
The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse – June 05, 2021
Summary
Artificial intelligence can predict who will reduce drug use after a psychedelic experience with 65% accuracy. Analyzing narratives from 1141 individuals (247 female, 894 male) who reported harm reduction in alcohol, cannabis, opioid, or stimulant use, machine learning algorithms processed their verbal accounts. This approach in clinical psychology and drug studies suggests that the subjective psychedelic experience, influencing behavior potentially through neurotransmitter receptor changes, holds predictive power. Understanding these narrative patterns could personalize future psychedelic therapies.
Abstract
Background: Experiences with psychedelic drugs, such as psilocybin or lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), are sometimes followed by changes in patter...
Advances in Psychedelic Medicine
OpenAlex – January 01, 2019
Summary
Psychedelics are rapidly transforming Medicine, with the U.S. government lifting its testing ban over a decade ago. Substances like Psilocybin, MDMA, and the hallucinogen Ayahuasca are now being integrated into Psychiatry and Psychology, augmenting psychotherapies for conditions like Addiction and depressive disorders. This comprehensive assessment covers clinical efficacy, safety, and ethical considerations, alongside neuroscience findings. It also explores microdosing, cannabinoid research, and training future psychotherapists in this evolving field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Researchers, program administrators, and practicing clinicians explain the most recent developments in using psychedelic substances to treat psycho...
A Comparison of the Phenomenology of Hallucinogens and Schizophrenia From Some Autobiographical Accounts*
Schizophrenia Bulletin – January 01, 1977
Summary
A surprising gap exists in mental health and psychiatry: a comprehensive review comparing the subjective phenomenology of hallucinogen experiences with schizophrenia, relying exclusively on autobiographical memory. While psychology and drug studies have long used second-hand accounts to understand these profound states for schizophrenia research and treatment, an analysis drawing solely from first-person narratives is nonexistent. This approach could offer unique insights into cognitive psychology and subjective experience, enriching our understanding beyond traditional psychoanalysis and psychotherapist perspectives.
Abstract
Over the years there have been many reviews of the phenomenology of hallucinogens and schizophrenia. The vast majority of these have been written b...
Psychedelic experiences and long-term spiritual growth: a systematic review
Current Psychology – July 12, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics, including psilocybin, significantly foster long-term spiritual growth, a systematic Psychology review of 34 studies involving 19,724 participants reveals. These substances, often associated with profound religious experience and Mysticism, enhance feelings of unity and Transcendence, deepen spiritual Faith, and boost Social connectedness. Individuals report stronger divine connections, increased meaning, and greater engagement in Spirituality. This suggests a powerful link between certain Chemical synthesis and alkaloids and an individual's Religiosity and overall well-being, influencing their religious orientation.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic substances, which can occasion mystical experiences, are sometimes used for religious and spiritual reasons. Despite strong li...
Jekyll and Hyde Revisited: Paradoxes in the Appreciation of Drug Experiences and Their Effects on Creativity
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – September 01, 2002
Summary
Paradoxically, psychedelic experiences, like those from psilocybin, often evoke simultaneous feelings of both "possession" by an external agency and profound liberation. While social psychology typically divides these into two opposed cultural interpretations—either revealing hidden truths or being under an irrational influence—the reality for artists engaged in creativity, as seen in visual culture, suggests a complex interplay. Experiential learning shows aesthetic traits in art reflecting both extremes, bridging the "demoniacal" and "psychedelic" in a single psychological reality, challenging our epistemology.
Abstract
Historically, states of intoxication--like dreams and madness--are seen in either one of two opposed ways. The intoxicated are either "possessed" o...
HALLUCINOGENIC AGENTS
JAMA – September 14, 1963
Summary
A growing medical and social problem involves the ingestion of drugs drastically altering sensory perception. Public interest is increasing in psychotomimetic hallucinogens like Psilocybin, Mescaline, and Lysergic acid diethylamide. Even morning-glory seeds, containing lysergic acid, are now used. While traditional medicine has long seen such substances, a new wave of promotion targets the general public. This trend, involving six distinct hallucinogens, highlights a significant challenge. Understanding their pharmacology, from ancient use to modern forms, is crucial for medicine.
Abstract
An article on stramonium intoxication in this issue ofThe Journal(p 882) calls attention to a growing medical and social problem in this country—th...
Self-Reported Illicit Drug Use Among Norwegian University and College Students. Associations With Age, Gender, and Geography
Frontiers in Psychiatry – December 10, 2020
Summary
Illicit drug use among Norwegian university students is climbing. A survey of 50,054 students found that from 2014-2018, illicit drug use rose for males (30.8% to 36.7%) and females (17.5% to 24.0%). Cannabis (15.2%) was the most common drug in the past year. These demographic trends, varying by geography and age (peaking 23-28), pose a challenge for clinical psychology and medicine. Robust substance abuse treatment, including for opioid use disorder, and mental health access are crucial for student environmental health in Norway.
Abstract
Background and Aims: Several studies have pointed to relatively high levels of illicit drug use among students in higher education compared to the ...
Improved colour blindness symptoms associated with recreational psychedelic use: Results from the Global Drug Survey 2017
Drug Science Policy and Law – January 01, 2020
Summary
Remarkably, some individuals with color blindness report improved vision after using hallucinogens like Lysergic acid diethylamide and Psilocybin. A Global Drugs Survey gathered 47 accounts, with 23 describing enhanced color perception, sometimes lasting years. This intriguing finding, significant for Psychology, Optometry, and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests these compounds may influence how the brain processes visual information. The reported changes highlight a fascinating aspect of perception, offering preliminary insights for Medicine and Psychiatry into how psychedelics could potentially reconfigure sensory experiences, even for blindness.
Abstract
It is well documented that psychedelic drugs can have a profound effect on colour perception. After previous research involving psychedelic drug in...
Forensic And Pharmaceutical Analysis Of Addictive Morbidity Because Of The Use Of Psychotropic Psychoactive Substances In Ukraine (Retrospective Aspect)
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – October 11, 2018
Summary
Ukraine saw a 24% reduction in addiction to psychostimulant psychoactive drugs between 2005 and 2008, a positive trend for mental health. Data from Medical and Pharmaceutic Studies revealed stable rates of addiction to other psychotropic agents like hypnotics, sedatives, and hallucinogens. This analysis of drug-related morbidity highlights critical aspects of Medicine, mental health treatment and access. Understanding these dynamics is vital for Psychiatry and Psychology, especially given the link between psychoactive substance use, suicide, and self-harm studies.
Abstract
Introduction. The use of psychoactive substances is one of the leading factors in the deterioration of the mental health of the population. The dyn...
Microdosing Psychedelics: Personality, mental health, and creativity differences in microdosers
OpenAlex – November 01, 2018
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics, like Psilocybin or Mescaline, shows exciting potential for mental health. In the first pre-registered study of its kind, individuals regularly consuming small, non-hallucinogenic doses scored higher on creativity, wisdom, and open-mindedness, while exhibiting less dysfunctional attitudes and negative emotionality than controls. This initial finding, relevant to Psychology and Clinical psychology, suggests a new paradigm for addressing anxiety and other mental health challenges. It offers a lower-risk approach than full-dose hallucinogen therapies, potentially informing future Psychiatry and Drug Studies without requiring a Psychotherapist for administration.
Abstract
Microdosing psychedelics - the regular consumption of small amounts of psychedelic substances such as LSD or psilocybin - is a growing trend in pop...
Macrodosing to microdosing with psychedelics: Clinical, social, and cultural perspectives
Transcultural Psychiatry – August 29, 2022
Summary
Microdosing classical hallucinogens like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide is a burgeoning trend, despite limited formal drug studies. While macrodosing effects are well-documented, microdosing involves intermittent, sub-perceptual doses, reportedly enhancing cognition and mental function. Many claim it's a therapeutic intervention, improving psychology without full "trips." This exploration synthesizes the social and clinical context of this practice, examining its potential as a psychotherapist-guided tool versus recreational use. Understanding these substances, often products of chemical synthesis, requires biochemical analysis to discern their true impact.
Abstract
To date, the clinical and scientific literature has best documented the effects of classical psychedelics, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)...
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...
5HT2a Receptors – a New Target for Depression?
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2015
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin profoundly reduce brain activity, particularly in areas rich in the 5-HT2A receptor, a key 5-HT receptor. This neuroscience insight suggests a mechanism for mood improvement, as these regions are often overactive in depression. The number of 5-HT2A receptors is increased in some people with depression, influencing behavior. Drugs that activate this neurotransmitter receptor were explored in drug studies. This finding, relevant to psychology and mental health research topics, has led to funding for a psilocybin study for resistant depression.
Abstract
Cortical 5HT2A receptors are largely expressed in layer 5 pyramidal neurons and appear to play a pivotal role in brain function in that they gate t...
Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelics in Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders, Part 2
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry – February 23, 2021
Summary
High-dose psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, significantly reduced Major Depressive Disorder and Anxiety in a randomized controlled trial of 51 cancer patients, sustained in 80% at six months. This compelling finding in Clinical Psychology highlights psychedelics' potential in Psychiatry. Psilocybin, Lysergic acid diethylamide, and MDMA are gaining traction in Medicine, exploring their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior to improve mood. Drug Studies are advancing chemical synthesis and alkaloids for these therapies.
Abstract
P sychedelics have recently gained attention as compounds with therapeutic potential in the treatment of psychiatric disorders.The US Food and Drug...
Drug use and hypnotic susceptibility
International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis – January 01, 1972
Summary
Individuals who have experimented with hallucinogens like psilocybin or mescaline exhibit greater hypnotic susceptibility. Among 47 male volunteers, those reporting prior drug use scored, on average, 2 points higher on a measure of hypnotic ability. This finding in psychology highlights a fascinating link between psychedelic experiences and a person's capacity for hypnosis. Such insights are valuable for clinical psychology and psychiatry, potentially informing applications in pain management, the placebo effect, and even mindfulness and compassion interventions, enriching drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract 47 undergraduate male volunteers were asked 2 questions relating to their use of marijuana and/or psychedelic drugs (e.g., LSD, mescaline,...