1705 results for "Ketamine"
Meditation and psychedelics facilitate similar types of mystical, psychological, and philosophical-existential insights predictive of wellbeing: A qualitative-quantitative approach
OpenAlex – June 06, 2025
Summary
Profound transformative experiences, vital for mental health, are not exclusive to psychedelics. Narrative accounts from 147 psychedelic and 66 meditation experiences reveal strikingly similar insights. While Mystical-type insights were more frequent in meditation, value insights were common in psychedelic experiences, a key finding for drug studies. These insights span Psychological, Philosophical-existential, and Mysticism themes, enriching our epistemology of self-understanding. Metacognitive and value insights improved positive affect; Mysticism predicted increased meaning. Both meditation and psychedelic substances offer deep pathways for personal growth, valuable for any psychotherapist addressing existential well-being.
Abstract
Both psychedelic substances and meditation have been proposed to facilitate personally meaningful and transformative experiences, with insights pla...
Hallucinogenic potential: a review of psychoplastogens for the treatment of opioid use disorder
Frontiers in Pharmacology – August 22, 2023
Summary
Current medicine struggles with the opioid epidemic, leaving many with Opioid use disorder. However, a compelling shift in Psychiatry and Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggests hallucinogens offer a potent new approach to addiction. These compounds, often derived through chemical synthesis, demonstrate unique pharmacology and profound neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, addressing both the physical opioid dependence and underlying psychology. This novel medicine, including alternatives to treatments like buprenorphine, could provide a holistic path for recovery, moving beyond the limited efficacy of existing therapies.
Abstract
The United States is entering its fourth decade of the opioid epidemic with no clear end in sight. At the center of the epidemic is an increase in ...
The entropic heart: Tracking the psychedelic state via heart rate dynamics
OpenAlex – November 09, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding reveals that heart rate entropy, a measure of physiological "arrow of time," significantly increases during experiences with hallucinogens like psilocybin. Using advanced computer science and artificial intelligence for biochemical analysis, consistent increases in heart rate and heart rate variability were observed across four psychedelics. Crucially, only heart rate entropy changes correlated with brain entropy shifts, offering unique insights into neuroscience and psychology. This cost-efficient approach in psychedelics and drug studies helps illuminate how these substances, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, impact behavior and subjective states.
Abstract
A growing body of work shows that autonomic signals provide a privileged evidence-stream to capture various aspects of subjective and neural states...
Correlation analysis between clinical effective emotional treatment and plasma N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor function-related indexes.
Frontiers in neuroscience – January 01, 2025
Summary
Effective treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) may significantly alter brain chemistry and inflammation. Researchers explored how successful antidepressant therapy affects plasma markers related to the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) and inflammatory cytokines. They analyzed blood samples from 70 MDD patients before and after treatment, measuring key compounds like glutamate and various cytokines linked to metabolism. Results showed that effective treatment led to beneficial shifts: increased glutamate levels and reduced inflammatory cytokines. These positive changes correlated with significant reductions in depressive and anxiety symptoms, including cognitive improvements. The findings highlight the crucial role of NMDAR function and immune system modulation in achieving clinical recovery from MDD.
Abstract
With the use of ketamine, Glutamate (Glu) system has gradually become the focus of antidepressant effects. N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), a...
Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy: A Paradigm Shift in Psychiatric Research and Development
Frontiers in Pharmacology – July 05, 2018
Summary
**Psilocybin** and other **Psychedelics**, professionally guided by a **Psychotherapist**, are revolutionizing **Psychiatry**. This innovative **Medicine** model offers profound efficacy for mental disorders, with **Drug Studies** indicating over 60% remission rates for treatment-resistant conditions. These compounds, often **alkaloids** from **Chemical synthesis**, exert their **Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior**, opening non-ordinary states of **Consciousness**. This paradigm shift challenges traditional **Psychology** diagnostics, addressing root causes like trauma and cultural factors, rather than merely managing symptoms.
Abstract
Mental disorders are rising while development of novel psychiatric medications is declining. This stall in innovation has also been linked with int...
Virtual Reality as a Moderator of Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy
Frontiers in Psychology – March 04, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics, like the natural compound psilocybin, show profound promise in psychology for treating anxiety and influencing consciousness. These hallucinogens require careful psychotherapist guidance and a supportive mindset. Virtual reality (VR) could significantly enhance this, aiding relaxation, promoting mindfulness, and complementing practices like meditation. While VR’s potential to deepen these experiences is compelling, its synergy with psychedelics demands rigorous evaluation in drug studies to understand its full impact on behavior.
Abstract
Psychotherapy with the use of psychedelic substances, including psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ketamine, and 3,4-methylenedioxymetha...
Microglial BDNF modulates arketamine's antidepressant-like effects through cortico-accumbal pathways.
Science advances – July 11, 2025
Summary
Brain cells called microglia play a surprising role in how a promising antidepressant, arketamine, works. Using models of chronic stress, it was found that arketamine increases a key brain protein, BDNF, within these microglia. This microglial BDNF then boosts beneficial brain activity and communication in mood-regulating regions, particularly connecting the prefrontal cortex to the nucleus accumbens. This mechanism leads to powerful antidepressant-like effects, revealing a vital pathway for future mental health therapies.
Abstract
Arketamine, the (R)-enantiomer of (R,S)-ketamine, shows even greater rapid and sustained antidepressant-like effects in rodent models compared to e...
Psychedelic use in individuals living with eating disorders or disordered eating: findings from the international MED-FED survey.
Journal of eating disorders – July 24, 2025
Summary
Over 30% of people with an eating disorder report lifetime psychedelic use, often finding profound transformation. A large survey explored how individuals with conditions like Anorexia nervosa, Bulimia nervosa, Binge eating disorder, or even ARFID use substances such as LSD, Psilocybin (Magic mushrooms), or DMT. Positive reports included increased connectedness and new insights into their eating disorder symptoms, highlighting potential benefits from psychedelic experiences.
Abstract
There are few effective treatments for eating disorders (EDs), and new interventions are urgently needed. The MEDication and other drugs For Eating...
Psychoactive substances: novel molecular insights and therapeutic potential for Alzheimer's disease.
Translational neurodegeneration – July 25, 2025
Summary
Imagine a new path for Alzheimer's disease treatment. Despite current challenges, recent molecular insights reveal how specific psychoactive substances, like certain psychedelics and cannabinoids, could offer significant therapeutic potential. These compounds are being explored for their ability to enhance learning and cognitive performance, suggesting novel strategies to combat neurodegeneration and improve brain health.
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major neurodegenerative disorder that causes severe cognitive decline and poses a significant burden on global health...
Bipolar disorder.
Lancet (London, England) – July 22, 2025
Summary
Affecting 40 million globally, bipolar disorder's predominant phase is often depression, not just mania. Diagnosis is challenging due to symptom overlap. Yet, significant progress in understanding its multigene, infectious, and mitochondrial causes is enhancing care. Patient-centered treatments, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, offer effective management.
Abstract
The hallmark of bipolar disorder is hypomania or mania, and the predominant phase of illness is depression. Affecting approximately 40 million indi...
Prescription and Nonprescription Drug Use Among People With Eating Disorders.
JAMA network open – July 01, 2025
Summary
Many individuals with eating disorders report using various substances to manage their symptoms. An extensive international survey explored how people perceive both prescribed and non-prescribed drugs. It revealed that cannabis and psychedelics were frequently reported to improve eating disorder symptoms. While prescription antidepressants often benefited overall mental health, they were generally not found effective for eating disorder symptoms, with specific exceptions. This highlights promising new approaches for symptom relief.
Abstract
There are few effective pharmacotherapies for treating eating disorders (EDs). High rates of substance use among individuals with EDs suggest poten...
The Future of Pain Management.
Neurologic clinics – August 01, 2025
Summary
Pain isn't just physical; it's a complex sensory, emotional, and cognitive experience. A comprehensive review reveals a promising future for pain management. Advances in treatment algorithms, novel pain medication like psychedelics, and noninvasive neuromodulation offer exciting new pain interventions. This heralds significant potential for effective pain treatment, transforming care for both acute pain and chronic pain.
Abstract
This article explores the complexities of pain management, highlighting the multidimensional nature of pain, which encompasses affective, cognitive...
Implementation of a community-based LC-UV drug checking service: promising preliminary findings on feasibility and validity.
Harm reduction journal – October 18, 2024
Summary
A community drug checking service showed its ability to accurately identify psychoactive substances, boosting safety. Its LC-UV analysis was cross-validated against a high-precision LC-HRMS method. For 102 samples, results revealed minimal differences (≤20%) and strong correlations for substances like cocaine and MDMA. This confirms LC-UV's reliability for harm reduction, providing accurate drug checking.
Abstract
The increasing diversity of psychoactive substances on the unregulated drug market poses significant health, psychological, and social risks to peo...
Past-year hallucinogen use in relation to psychological distress, depression, and suicidality among US adults.
Addictive behaviors – September 01, 2022
Summary
Ecstasy (MDMA) use was linked to *reduced* psychological distress and suicidal thoughts among US adults. A study of over 240,000 US adults explored how various hallucinogens, including psychedelics, relate to mental well-being. While ecstasy showed decreased depression and suicidality, other hallucinogens like LSD were linked to increased risks. This reveals distinct impacts of different hallucinogens on mental health.
Abstract
There is renewed interest in the clinical application of hallucinogenic substances to treat a range of psychiatric conditions. However, there is mi...
Registered clinical studies investigating psychedelic drugs for psychiatric disorders.
Journal of psychiatric research – July 01, 2021
Summary
The number of clinical trials exploring psychedelics for psychiatric disorders has significantly increased, driven by promising early findings. Researchers are investigating compounds like MDMA and psilocybin, primarily for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Other psychedelics, including LSD, ayahuasca, ibogaine, and DMT, are also being explored for various psychiatric disorders, highlighting a growing interest in these innovative treatments.
Abstract
Psychedelics are a hallucinogenic class of psychoactive drugs with the primary effect of activating non-ordinary states of consciousness. Due to th...
Tags
Focus on Adolescent Use of Club Drugs and "Other" Substances.
Pediatric clinics of North America – December 01, 2019
Summary
Many adolescents are experimenting with an alarming array of substances, from custom-designed club drugs and hallucinogens to inhalants and otc substances. These designer drugs present unique, evolving risks due to novel compounds and drug interactions. The findings highlight the urgent need for vigilance and proactive identification of substance use. Implementing strategies like SBIRT offers a crucial path to positive intervention and improved outcomes for adolescents.
Abstract
Club drugs and "other" abusable substances are briefly overviewed as a reminder about the wide variety of known and unknown substances used by adol...
Discrete memory impairments in largely pure chronic users of MDMA.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – October 01, 2017
Summary
Even largely pure, chronic MDMA use specifically affects new memory formation. Researchers investigated if cognition difficulties were solely due to the empathogen or compounded by other substances. Comparing pure mdma users, polydrug users (with stimulants like mda, mdea), and non-users, they used cognitive tests and hair analysis. Pure mdma users primarily showed significant declarative memory deficits. Polydrug users showed broader impairments in working memory, executive functions, and attention. This suggests chronic mdma use is linked to discrete declarative memory challenges, while wider cognition issues stem from co-occurring stimulant use.
Abstract
Chronic use of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "ecstasy") has repeatedly been associated with deficits in working memory, declarative memo...
Psychosis, psychedelic substance misuse and head injury: A case report and 23 year follow-up.
Brain injury – January 01, 2015
Summary
Remarkably, psychosis can manifest nearly two decades after a severe traumatic brain injury. A detailed 23-year follow-up revealed a man who developed a severe psychotic disorder 19 years post-injury. This onset was notably precipitated by heavy psychedelic drug-use, including cannabis and LSD. The psychosis persisted even without intoxication, suggesting a complex interplay. This case offers crucial insights for neuropsychiatry, indicating that psychedelic drug-use may potentiate psychosis in individuals with a history of traumatic brain injury, a risk factor previously overlooked due to traditional exclusion criteria.
Abstract
This study describes the case of a 57 year old gentleman with a previous severe brain injury who developed a severe psychotic disorder 19 years aft...
New psychoactive substances as adulterants of controlled drugs. A worrying phenomenon?
Drug testing and analysis – January 01, 2014
Summary
Many street drugs are not what users expect. Analysis of samples revealed 24 new psychoactive substances used in the adulteration of controlled drugs such as MDMA. These compounds often replaced the intended drug, creating dangerous combinations in the illegal market. Drug checking services are crucial, identifying these unexpected new psychoactive substances and empowering users with information to reduce harm.
Abstract
The use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) as adulterants has received little attention in the literature. In this paper, results from Energy Con...
Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion Pharmacogenomics of Drugs of Abuse
Pharmacogenomics – February 01, 2011
Summary
Individual genetics profoundly dictate how drugs, from potent opioids like Alfentanil and Oxycodone to medicines like Hydrocodone, affect the body. This variability stems from differences in drug metabolism, where enzymes like CYP2D6 process substances. Understanding these pharmacokinetic pathways is crucial for safe pharmacology, especially with drugs like Methadone or Dextromethorphan, and for Psychedelics studies. Such knowledge is vital for predicting drug interactions, assessing toxic risks, improving Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, and understanding how drugs influence behavior via neurotransmitter receptors.
Abstract
Pharmacologic and toxic effects of xenobiotics, such as drugs of abuse, depend on the genotype and phenotype of an individual, and conversely on th...
'Surfing the Silk Road': a study of users' experiences.
The International journal on drug policy – November 01, 2013
Summary
Many individuals prioritize safety and quality when sourcing drugs online. A study explored user experiences on the pioneering internet marketplace, Silk Road, through observations and interviews. It found users sought the platform for personal safety, drug quality, and variety, leading to significant displacement patterns away from traditional closed drug markets. Anonymity and ease of delivery were key, fostering a community built on trust and reviews.
Abstract
The online drug marketplace called 'Silk Road' has operated anonymously on the 'Deep Web' since 2011. It is accessible through computer encrypting ...
LC-MS/MS screening method for designer amphetamines, tryptamines, and piperazines in serum.
Analytical and bioanalytical chemistry – April 01, 2010
Summary
The rapid evolution of designer drugs demands sophisticated detection methods. Scientists have developed a powerful new analytical technique to reliably identify these substances in blood. This advanced LC-MS/MS method effectively screens for 35 different amphetamine, tryptamine, and piperazine derivatives. It successfully identifies all target compounds with impressive sensitivity and excellent selectivity, providing a robust and crucial tool for toxicology and public safety.
Abstract
Since the late 1990s and early 2000s, derivatives of well-known designer drugs as well as new psychoactive compounds have been sold on the illicit ...
Interaction of drugs of abuse and maintenance treatments with human P-glycoprotein (ABCB1) and breast cancer resistance protein (ABCG2).
The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology – August 01, 2010
Summary
Did you know certain addiction treatments and drugs can be actively pumped out of the brain by natural body defenses? Research explored how 14 common substances, like buprenorphine, methadone, and THC, interact with key proteins, P-glycoprotein and BCRP, using lab cell models. Findings show norbuprenorphine, buprenorphine, methadone, ibogaine, and THC inhibited P-glycoprotein. BCRP was also inhibited by buprenorphine, norbuprenorphine, ibogaine, and THC. P-glycoprotein actively transported norbuprenorphine and methadone, influencing their body distribution. This advances understanding of drug movement and interactions.
Abstract
Drug interaction with P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) may influence its tissue disposition including blood-brain ...
Dopamine D2High receptors stimulated by phencyclidines, lysergic acid diethylamide, salvinorin A, and modafinil.
Synapse (New York, N.Y.) – August 01, 2009
Summary
Unexpectedly, phencyclidine (PCP), known for other effects, strongly stimulates dopamine D2 receptors in brain tissue. Researchers investigated if PCP and similar substances like LSD and modafinil activate these receptors. Using rat brain samples, they found PCP, hallucinogens, and psychostimulants effectively activate D2 receptors at behaviorally relevant concentrations, a positive discovery that clarifies how these compounds influence brain activity.
Abstract
Although it is commonly stated that phencyclidine is an antagonist at ionotropic glutamate receptors, there has been little measure of its potency ...
Discriminative stimulus effects of 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-aminopropane in rhesus monkeys.
The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics – February 01, 2008
Summary
Serotonin receptors are key to how some hallucinogens are perceived. Monkeys learned to distinguish a psychoactive drug from placebo. Blocking serotonin 2A receptors fully prevented the drug's stimulus. Human hallucinogens substituted, confirming 5-HT2A's role. Other hallucinogens did not, demonstrating distinct mechanisms for different classes.
Abstract
Discriminative stimulus effects of 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOM) and related drugs have been studied extensively in rodents...
The plant-derived hallucinogen, salvinorin A, produces kappa-opioid agonist-like discriminative effects in rhesus monkeys.
Psychopharmacology – March 01, 2004
Summary
A naturally occurring plant hallucinogen, Salvinorin A, surprisingly mimics the brain's response to powerful opioid compounds. Scientists hypothesized Salvinorin A would produce effects similar to a specific kappa-opioid agonist. Using rhesus monkeys trained to identify this agonist's effects, it was successfully demonstrated that Salvinorin A indeed triggered identical, dose-dependent responses. Crucially, an opioid antagonist completely blocked these effects, confirming its interaction with the opioid system. This reveals a fascinating mechanism for this unique hallucinogen.
Abstract
Salvinorin A is the active component of the hallucinogenic plant Salvia divinorum. The potential mode of action of this hallucinogen was unknown un...
Consciousness alterations in a cohort of young Swiss men: Associations with substance use and personality traits.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2022
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Substance-induced consciousness alterations (CA) have mainly been studied among users of psychedelics but not among people using street drugs. Expl...
[Psychedelics in the field of chronic pain. A path to explore?].
Revue medicale suisse – February 14, 2024
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Psychedelics are emerging as a therapeutic innovation in psychiatry and their use in chronic pain is worth exploring. In fact, they can modulate th...
Novel rapid treatment options for adolescent depression.
Pharmacological research – March 01, 2024
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
There is an urgent need for novel fast-acting antidepressants for adolescent treatment-resistant depression and/or suicidal risk, since the selecti...
Polydrug Use Typologies of Regular Ecstasy Users Visiting Electronic Dance Music Events: A Latent Class Analysis.
European addiction research – January 01, 2024
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Polydrug use patterns among young adults using ecstasy vary, as well as their willingness to change them. Polydrug use patterns are likely associat...
Mechanisms of SSRI Therapy and Discontinuation.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – January 01, 2024
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
SSRIs are one of the most widely used drug therapies in primary care and psychiatry, and central to the management of the most common mental health...
Prophylactic effects of arketamine, but not hallucinogenic psychedelic DOI nor non-hallucinogenic psychedelic analog lisuride, in lipopolysaccharide-treated mice and mice exposed to chronic restrain stress.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – December 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Anesthetic ketamine and classical psychedelics that act as 5-hydroxytryptamine-2A receptor (5-HT2AR) agonists demonstrated rapid and sustained anti...
Prevalence and Correlates of Past Year Ecstasy/MDMA Use in the United States.
Journal of addiction medicine
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) (also known as "ecstasy" or "Molly") has regained attention in recent years for its efficacy in treating p...
The role of neurotrophic factors in novel, rapid psychiatric treatments.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Neurotrophic factors are a family of growth factors that modulate cellular growth, survival, and differentiation. For many decades, it has been gen...
Better Biomarkers, Faster Drugs, Stronger Models: Progress Towards Precision Psychiatry.
Missouri medicine – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
The 21st century has brought novel therapies and new therapeutic targets for major depressive disorder (MDD). Until recently all antidepressant med...
Addiction specialists' attitudes toward psychedelics: A National Survey.
The American journal on addictions – November 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
In recent years, there has been accelerating scientific and public interest in the use of psychedelics to treat mental health disorders. Our study'...
Psychedelics and Related Pharmacotherapies as Integrative Medicine for Older Adults in Palliative Care.
Clinics in geriatric medicine – August 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Psychological distress at the end of life is a common experience that lacks effective treatments. This is in part due to the multidimensional natur...
Recommendations for selection and adaptation of rating scales for clinical studies of rapid-acting antidepressants.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
The novel mechanisms of action (MOA) derived from some recently introduced molecular targets have led to regulatory approvals for rapid acting anti...
Pharmacological Treatment of Generalised Anxiety Disorder: Current Practice and Future Directions.
Expert review of neurotherapeutics – June 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common psychiatric condition, characterized by the presence of general apprehensiveness and excessive worry...
Clinical pharmacological innovation in the treatment of depression.
Expert review of clinical pharmacology – April 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Deficiencies in standard of care antidepressants are driving novel drug discovery. A new age of antidepressant medications has emerged with the int...
Structural identification and metabolic profiling of the new psychoactive substance 2-fluoro-2-oxo-PCPr using NMR and LC-QTOF-MS.
Forensic science international – November 10, 2025
Summary
A newly identified psychoactive substance, 2-fluoro-2-oxo-PCPr, was found to exist in two interconverting rotameric forms, a unique molecular characteristic confirmed by GIAO-DFT NMR calculations. Researchers successfully determined its structure and performed comprehensive metabolite profiling in human samples. Key breakdown products were identified in both urine and hair, providing crucial data for detecting and monitoring this emerging substance in forensic and clinical toxicology.
Abstract
Fluorinated analogs of ketamine, such as 2-fluoro-deschloroketamine and its isomers, have recently emerged as dissociative anesthetics that act thr...
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Investigating the Efficacy of Various Psychedelic Drugs for the Treatment of Substance Use Disorder.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) – October 23, 2025
Summary
Emerging research reveals a powerful new approach to substance use disorder. A comprehensive analysis of human trials shows that psychedelic treatment, utilizing compounds like ibogaine and psilocybin, effectively reduces substance misuse. Ibogaine, in particular, demonstrated the most prominent positive results. These significant benefits were observed whether or not the psychedelic treatment was paired with psychotherapy, highlighting the direct impact of these compounds in addressing substance use disorder.
Abstract
Objectives: This study investigates psychedelic drugs to treat substance use disorder (SUD). Researchers have recently begun conducting clinical tr...
Use and abuse of dissociative and psychedelic drugs in adolescence
Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior – January 27, 2021
Summary
Despite widespread adolescent use of Hallucinogens like MDMA and Psilocybin, their specific effects on developing brains are largely unknown. Developmental Psychology and Clinical Psychology reveal dissociatives and MDMA can exert mixed reinforcing or aversive effects, potentially influencing Addiction and Substance Abuse differently than in adults. Psychiatry and Psychedelics and Drug Studies lack crucial data, including direct age-group comparisons or long-term consequences, hindering our understanding of Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis urgently require more research on these Drugs of Abuse in adolescents.
Abstract
Adolescence is a period of profound developmental changes, which run the gamut from behavioral and neural to physiological and hormonal. It is also...
Unique Effects of Sedatives, Dissociatives, Psychedelics, Stimulants, and Cannabinoids on Episodic Memory: A Review and Reanalysis of Acute Drug Effects on Recollection, Familiarity, and Metamemory
OpenAlex – May 24, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics surprisingly enhanced familiarity during memory encoding, according to a reanalysis of 10 datasets covering 28 drug conditions. This cognitive psychology work reveals how psychoactive drugs uniquely influence episodic mnemonic processes like recall and metamemory. Sedatives impaired recall and familiarity, while dissociatives and cannabinoids enhanced metamemory. This neuroscience perspective highlights how different drug classes impact cognition, memory consolidation, and encoding, explaining varied subjective experiences.
Abstract
Abstract Despite distinct classes of psychoactive drugs producing putatively unique states of consciousness, there is surprising overlap in terms o...
Neuroimaging in psychedelic drug development: Past, present, and future
OpenAlex – June 30, 2022
Summary
Neuroimaging is revolutionizing psychedelic medicine, offering unprecedented precision in understanding how substances like psilocybin and MDMA impact the brain. This advanced neuroscience, utilizing modalities like PET and MRI, is crucial for drug development in psychiatry. It illuminates the serotonergic mechanisms of these hallucinogens, holding immense promise for treating addiction and other psychological conditions. This rigorous drug analysis provides a robust foundation for psychotherapists. Integrating these insights into medicine advances our understanding of neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, propelling psychedelics and drug studies forward.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy (PT) is an emerging paradigm with great transdiagnostic potential for treating a range of psychiatric disorders, including depr...
“The mushroom was more alive and vibrant”: Patient reports of synthetic versus organic forms of psilocybin
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – October 29, 2024
Summary
For mental health, whole Psilocybe mushrooms and their extracts offer a more natural and superior experience than synthetic psilocybin. Participants in a Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy program for end-of-life distress reported that while synthetic psilocybin, whole *Psilocybe cubensis*, and mycological extract all provided emotional insight and mystical experiences, synthetic psilocybin felt less natural and had an inferior overall quality. This suggests future Psychedelics and Drug Studies in psychology and psychiatry should prioritize natural mushroom compounds in medicine, moving beyond synthetic drug forms.
Abstract
Abstract Interest in psychedelic research in the West is surging, however, clinical trials have almost exclusively studied synthetic compounds such...
Prefrontal Neurophysiological Changes Associated with Subanesthetic Esketamine Accelerating Mice Emergence from Propofol Anesthesia.
Brain research bulletin – November 22, 2025
Summary
A surprising finding reveals that a low dose of esketamine can actually speed up recovery from propofol anesthesia. Using calcium imaging and other advanced techniques, researchers explored this paradoxical emergence in the prefrontal cortex of mice. They found esketamine rapidly altered brainwave patterns and neuronal activity across different layers. Crucially, it also boosted key neurotransmitter dynamics, like acetylcholine and serotonin, earlier than expected. This orchestrated sequence of events in the prefrontal cortex appears to be how esketamine positively accelerates awakening.
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated that subanesthetic dose of ketamine or its S-enantiomer, esketamine, can paradoxically accelerate the recovery of ...
Novel Psychoactive Substances—Recent Progress on Neuropharmacological Mechanisms of Action for Selected Drugs
Frontiers in Psychiatry – August 18, 2017
Summary
The evolving view of psychoactive drugs reveals both significant risks and surprising medical potential. A recent review highlights progress in the pharmacology of new substances, including synthetic cannabinoids like "Spice" and the designer drug mephedrone. It explores hallucinogens, dissociatives, and other compounds, examining their chemical synthesis and alkaloids. This work is crucial for medicine and psychiatry, as it uncovers emerging harm potentials alongside potential applications for previously stigmatized drugs. This ongoing evaluation informs our approach to psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
A feature of human culture is that we can learn to consume chemical compounds, derived from natural plants or synthetic fabrication, for their psyc...
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: Potential Benefits and Challenges in Mental Health Treatment
Medical Science Monitor – June 30, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics offer compelling potential for mental health, addressing severe conditions like depression and PTSD. These substances, including those from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, are explored in Psychiatry and Psychology. A psychotherapist might integrate them into Medicine, yet current Drug Studies, often found in MEDLINE, confirm psychedelic-assisted therapy remains experimental due to a scarcity of large-scale trials. While unique mechanisms, such as those related to Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors, are under study, robust evidence is crucial for patients needing intensive care medicine-level attention for complex mental health challenges.
Abstract
Psychedelics, derived from the Greek words "psyche" (soul) and "deloun" (revealing), are substances historically and currently considered "soul-rev...
Dimethyltryptamine (DMT): Prevalence, user characteristics and abuse liability in a large global sample
Journal of Psychopharmacology – November 27, 2013
Summary
DMT, a potent hallucinogen, offers an intense, short-lived psychedelic high with minimal negative effects, distinguishing it from drugs like psilocybin or Lysergic acid diethylamide. A survey of 22,289 individuals revealed 8.9% lifetime use. Among 472 participants, 24% were new users, suggesting increasing popularity. While its desirable effect profile indicates high abuse liability, a low urge for repeat use may offset this. This data from Drug Studies is vital for Psychology, Psychiatry, and Medicine, informing understanding of neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior and Forensic Toxicology.
Abstract
This paper presents original research on prevalence, user characteristics and effect profile of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a potent hallucinogen...
Psychedelic Therapy: A Primer for Primary Care Clinicians—Psilocybin
American Journal of Therapeutics – March 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen and alkaloid, shows remarkable promise as a medicine in psychiatry. Initial clinical trials reported 42%-57% remission for major depressive disorder, potentially surpassing existing antidepressants like Fluoxetine. Larger studies observed 25%-29% remission, still a significant reduction in symptoms. Its pharmacology, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, offers sustained benefits from 1-2 doses. While generally safe, transient adverse effects occur, and one large clinical trial noted 7 cases of suicidal ideation. Psychedelics and drug studies continue to explore its therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Background: The primary psychoactive drug in magic mushrooms, psilocybin, induces profound alterations in consciousness through the 5-HT 2A recepto...
Management of Treatment-Resistant Depression: Challenges and Strategies
Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment – January 01, 2020
Summary
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD), a severe Major Depressive Disorder, challenges psychiatry, failing at least 2 antidepressant medicine trials. Effective Treatment of Major Depression requires exploring diverse modalities. Brain stimulation techniques, including Electroconvulsive therapy, Transcranial magnetic stimulation, and Deep brain stimulation, are crucial. Vagus nerve stimulation and Lithium medication augmentation are also reviewed. Psychotherapists contribute, but understanding the complex landscape of TRD, distinct from Bipolar disorder, is vital for improving patient outcomes.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a subset of Major Depressive Disorder which does not respond to traditional and first-line therapeutic opti...
High-resolution tracking of unconfined zebrafish behavior reveals stimulatory and anxiolytic effects of psilocybin
Molecular Psychiatry – January 17, 2024
Summary
A compelling Neuroscience finding reveals the hallucinogen Psilocybin acts as an anxiolytic. In larval zebrafish, a model for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, it facilitated exploration and prevented stress responses. This research, crucial for Psychology, shows psilocybin inhibits serotonin neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus. Understanding this serotonergic neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, like insights from Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors Study, is vital for drug development to potentially avoid issues like desensitization.
Abstract
Abstract Serotonergic psychedelics are emerging therapeutics for psychiatric disorders, yet their underlying mechanisms of action in the brain rema...
Substance use initiation: The role of simultaneous polysubstance use
Drug and Alcohol Review – May 21, 2012
Summary
Over 75% of individuals initiating illicit drug use, from Amphetamine to Heroin, and Hallucinogens like Psilocybin and Mescaline, did so while simultaneously using other substances. Interviews with 226 Cannabis users showed this polysubstance dependence, including MDMA (Ecstasy), was common at first exposure. This insight into substance use and abuse is crucial for Psychology, Psychiatry, and Medicine, informing Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis could further explore these Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Introduction and Aims. Simultaneous polysubstance use (SPU) is a common phenomenon, yet little is known about its role in substance use in...
Blinding and expectancy confounds in psychedelic randomized controlled trials
Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology – May 26, 2021
Summary
Treatment effects for Major Depression from psychedelic clinical trials may be significantly overestimated. A systematic review of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) using MEDLINE revealed many studies on psilocybin and similar psychedelics lacked effective blinding. Expectancy theory suggests participants often discern if they receive the active medicine or a placebo, influencing reported outcomes. This de-blinding means large effect sizes in clinical psychology and psychiatry for these alternative medicine treatments might be inflated. Future drug studies must improve blinding to accurately assess therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Introduction: There is increasing interest in the potential for psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin, LSD and ketamine to treat several mental heal...
Psychedelics and Neuroplasticity: A Systematic Review Unraveling the Biological Underpinnings of Psychedelics
Frontiers in Psychiatry – September 10, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD show remarkable therapeutic potential for stress-related disorders, offering antidepressant, anxiolytic, and cognitive benefits. Neuroscience indicates these drug studies influence brain neuroplasticity. Analysis of 20 studies, including 4 clinical ones, reveals single doses rapidly alter molecular and cellular plasticity. Repeated administration stimulated neurogenesis and increased plasticity-related proteins for up to a month. This suggests psychedelics profoundly impact brain function, potentially through neurotransmitter receptor influence, offering new avenues in psychology for treating brain disorders.
Abstract
Clinical studies suggest the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, including ayahuasca, DMT, psilocybin, and LSD, in stress-related disorders. The...
A review of psilocybin: chemistry, clinical uses and future research directions
Australian Journal of Chemistry – May 16, 2023
Summary
Public interest in psychedelics like Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for mental health is soaring, yet robust clinical evidence for their benefits is still developing. These classic hallucinogens, functioning via specific serotonin receptor pharmacology, are being rigorously examined. Psilocybin, a tryptophan-based alkaloid found naturally, is a key focus. Current drug studies are evaluating its chemistry and proposed therapeutic mechanisms for Psychiatry. This review synthesizes the existing evidence base, guiding future chemical synthesis and psychological applications.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics such as psilocybin, ketamine and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) are 5HT2A serotonin receptor agonists that produce individua...
Unraveling the Mysteries of Mental Illness With Psilocybin
Cureus – May 27, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent tryptamine hallucinogen, is emerging as a revolutionary medicine for mental illness. This psychedelic uniquely targets cellular pathologies, promoting neuronal growth and adaptability, as observed in mouse brain neuroscience studies. Clinical trials suggest psilocybin therapy significantly relieves symptoms of major depressive disorder and even treatment-resistant depression. This antidepressant approach, influencing specific brain receptors, offers durable improvements. It represents a paradigm shift in psychiatry, moving beyond older theories to address depression's cellular roots, promising a new era for mental health treatment and drug studies.
Abstract
Current medications have not been effective in reducing the prevalence of mental illness worldwide. The prevalence of illnesses such as treatment-r...
Advances and Pathophysiological Models of Hallucinogenic Drug Actions in Humans: A Preamble to Schizophrenia Research
Pharmacopsychiatry – July 01, 1998
Summary
The pharmacology of hallucinogens like Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and Psilocybin profoundly impacts neurotransmitter systems, offering critical neuroscience insights. Research demonstrates that drug-induced psychosis, and potentially conditions like schizophrenia, involve a complex mechanism of multiple interactive neurotransmitter receptors. Specifically, a dysbalance among three key neurotransmitters—serotonin, glutamate, and dopamine—influences behavior. These psychedelics and dissociative drug studies provide powerful tools for psychology, elucidating neuropsychiatric disorder pathophysiology. Understanding these neurotransmitter receptor influences could inform future treatment for various conditions, including major depression.
Abstract
Recent research into the pharmacological mechanism of hallucinogens (LSD, psilocybin) and dissociative anesthetics (PCP, ketamine) suggest that mul...
Legal highs: staying on top of the flood of novel psychoactive substances
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – January 26, 2015
Summary
A startling 81 novel psychoactive substances were identified in 2013 alone, posing a significant challenge for Medicine and Psychiatry. These psychoactive substances, often mimicking classic hallucinogens like psilocybin or mescaline, or stimulants such as MDMA, demand urgent understanding. Categorized by parent compounds, including phencyclidine-like dissociatives, their varied pharmacology and potential for harm are critical. Understanding their Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior is vital for Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, as Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis strive to keep pace.
Abstract
There has been growing clinical, public, and media awareness and concern about the availability and potential harmfulness of so-called ‘legal highs...