Research
The Potential Influence of Associated Antidepressants on the Pharmacokinetic Profile of Esketamine in Patients Affected by Treatment-resistant Depression.
Current neuropharmacology – April 07, 2025
Summary
Certain antidepressant drugs can significantly boost blood levels of esketamine, a breakthrough treatment for stubborn depression. This finding shows how combining medications affects the body's processing of esketamine through cytochrome P450 enzymes. Patients taking specific antidepressants like paroxetine showed higher esketamine levels, though this didn't impact treatment success. These insights help doctors optimize dosing for safer, more effective depression care.
Abstract
Esketamine is administered intranasally in combination with at least another antidepressant in patients with treatment-resistant depression. Some o...
Investigating the effects of focused attention (mantra) meditation on mismatch negativity: Insights into sensory and cognitive processing using an intensity oddball paradigm.
Neuroscience – April 06, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Over the past fifty years, research has enhanced our understanding of meditation and its effects on cognition. Meditation is particularly promising...
Global landscape and hotspot analysis of meditation research in cancer: a bibliometric study.
Journal of cancer survivorship : research and practice – April 05, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Meditation is well known for its positive effects on recovery and quality of life enhancement among cancer patients. Meditation as an adjuvant ther...
Behavioral effects of three synthetic tryptamine derivatives in rodents.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – April 04, 2025
Summary
New synthetic compounds targeting serotonin receptors reveal varied potential for misuse. Lab tests show that among three emerging hallucinogen-like substances, only 4-OH-MiPT produces effects similar to known drugs. Through drug discrimination testing in rodents, researchers found that while all compounds affected movement patterns, only one fully mimicked classical hallucinogen effects.
Abstract
New synthetic tryptamine derivatives have emerged in the underground market. They act on serotonin receptors mimicking the effects of hallucinogeni...
Neuroplasticity and psychedelics: A comprehensive examination of classic and non-classic compounds in pre and clinical models
Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews – April 04, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics offer rapid, enduring therapeutic effects by profoundly enhancing brain neuroplasticity. Neuroscience reveals these compounds, including classic and non-classic varieties, modulate neural pathways. Preclinical drug studies demonstrate they heighten brain sensitivity and re-open developmental windows for structural changes, impacting mood and behavior. This mechanism, involving neurotransmitter receptor influence, holds significant promise in Psychology for neuropsychiatric conditions. While human translation faces imaging challenges, understanding these findings guides targeted interventions and advances their therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Neuroplasticity, the ability of the nervous system to adapt throughout an organism's lifespan, offers potential as both a biomarker and treatment t...
The Neural Correlates of Consciousness: A Spectral Exponent Approach to Diagnosing Disorders of Consciousness.
Brain sciences – April 04, 2025
Summary
Brain activity patterns reveal consciousness levels with remarkable precision. Scientists found that analyzing EEG biomarkers through a measure called the spectral exponent can reliably detect disorders of consciousness. By studying brain waves in 47 individuals, researchers discovered that specific electrical patterns strongly correlate with awareness levels and visual responsiveness. This breakthrough offers a more accurate way to diagnose unresponsive patients.
Abstract
Disorder of consciousness (DoC) poses diagnostic challenges due to behavioral assessment limitations. This study evaluates the spectral exponent (S...
Lack of relationships between ketamine treatment and peripheral neurotrophic and inflammatory factors in a randomized controlled ketamine trial of major depressive disorder.
Brain, behavior, and immunity – April 04, 2025
Summary
Despite ketamine's remarkable success as a rapid antidepressant, new research challenges assumptions about how it works. A large RCT found no significant link between ketamine treatment and changes in blood inflammation markers or BDNF levels. While these biological factors were thought to drive ketamine's effects, the data suggests its antidepressant properties may work through other pathways not measured in blood cytokines.
Abstract
Ketamine is a rapid-acting treatment for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), though mechanisms related to ketamine's effects remain unclear. Bloo...
Rare but relevant: Ketamine-induced cystitis - an in-depth review for addiction medicine.
Addiction (Abingdon, England) – April 04, 2025
Summary
Long-term ketamine use can cause severe bladder damage in up to 30% of regular users. This condition, known as ketamine cystitis, causes painful urination and bladder shrinkage. Lower urinary tract symptoms often start within months of regular use, progressing to potentially irreversible ketamine uropathy if untreated. Early detection through urodynamics testing is crucial, as advanced cases may require surgery for ureteric stricture. The good news: symptoms can improve significantly with early intervention and ketamine cessation.
Abstract
Ketamine-induced cystitis is an increasingly recognized complication associated with the addictive use of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic. This...
A pilot intervention to reduce burnout and enhance resilience through transcendental meditation among Georgetown University medical students.
BMC medical education – April 03, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Rates of burnout, depression, and anxiety among healthcare workers are at historically high levels and have remained high in the aftermath of the C...
Ketamine as part of multi-modal analgesia may reduce opioid requirements following cardiac surgery: a retrospective observational cohort study.
Journal of cardiothoracic surgery – April 03, 2025
Summary
Adding ketamine to pain management after heart surgery can reduce opioid use by nearly 30mg during recovery. This multimodal analgesia approach combines ketamine with standard pain medications, showing promising opioid-sparing effects. Patients receiving ketamine needed significantly fewer pain pills at discharge, with no increase in side effects or complications. This suggests a safer approach to postoperative pain management.
Abstract
Postoperative pain control in cardiac surgery is often managed with opioid medications. Insufficient analgesia can result in complications includin...
Identification of two lysergic acid diethylamide analogs, 1-(3-(trimethylsilyl) propionyl) lysergic acid diethylamide (1S-LSD) and 1-(2-thienoyl)-6-allyl-nor-d-lysergic acid diethylamide (1T-AL-LAD), in paper sheet products distributed on the internet.
Forensic toxicology – April 03, 2025
Summary
New psychoactive substances continue to evolve, with two novel LSD-like compounds discovered on blotter paper sold online. Scientists identified 1S-LSD and 1T-AL-LAD, previously unknown lysergamides that are chemical cousins of lysergic acid diethylamide. Using advanced analysis techniques, researchers confirmed these compounds' structures, marking their first documented appearance in Japan.
Abstract
Recently, numerous lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) analogs have emerged as designer drugs globally. These compounds are mainly distributed as shee...
Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy in Hospice and Palliative Care
Revista Cacto - Ciência Arte Comunicação em Transdisciplinaridade Online – April 03, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers profound relief in palliative and hospice care. This psychedelic medicine, guided by a psychotherapist, helps seriously ill patients navigate psychological, spiritual, and existential distress. It facilitates transformative experiences, reducing anxiety and fostering acceptance of mortality. Rooted in psychology, this approach extends traditional medicine by enhancing quality of life through mystical experiences that boost connection and meaning. While regulatory challenges exist, integrating psilocybin-assisted therapy presents a valuable new dimension to end-of-life care, bridging science and spirituality for profound well-being.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) has gained recognition as an innovative intervention in hospice and palliative care, demonstrating potential in m...
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Transcendental Meditation for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) – April 03, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Background and Objectives. Our recent systematic review and meta-analysis of all studies on meditation as treatment for PTSD (61 studies) found a m...
Local field potential changes during euthanasia may parallel with near death experience.
Scientific reports – April 03, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
A global experience that every human life meets is death. For several decades, individuals have reported their unique encounters with near-death ex...
Sporadic use of classic psychedelics and neuropsychological performance: A cross-sectional analysis.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
People who occasionally use psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD may experience enhanced cognitive flexibility and problem-solving abilities. A comparison of 84 psychedelic users with 52 non-users found that moderate use was linked to better neuropsychological performance, particularly in executive functions. Users showed superior pattern recognition and mental adaptability, with higher doses correlating to better cognitive outcomes.
Abstract
Evidence on the neuropsychological consequences of classic psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca is conflicting, and little is known abo...
Effect of Anapanasati Meditation on Thought Patterns and Subjective Well-being Among Orphan Adolescents.
Annals of neurosciences – April 02, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Over 2000 years old, Anapanasati meditation is the technique of mindful breathing where Anapana is breathing and sati is mindfulness. Anapanasati m...
Effects of Virtual Reality Meditation on Sleep and Delirium in ICU Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Computers, informatics, nursing : CIN – April 02, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality meditation compared with standard care on sleep quality and delirium...
S-ketamine Alleviates Neuroinflammation and Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Depression Via Targeting SIRT2.
Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany) – April 02, 2025
Summary
New research reveals how S-ketamine fights depression by reducing brain inflammation through a unique molecular pathway. The drug works by activating SIRT2, a protein that dampens inflammatory responses in the brain. Unlike its chemical cousin R-ketamine, S-ketamine specifically targets and binds to SIRT2, effectively reducing inflammation and improving mood-related behaviors in preclinical tests.
Abstract
Depression, a pervasive mental health condition, has increasingly been linked to neuroinflammation, as evidenced by elevated levels of pro-inflamma...
Ketamine's Influence on Magnetoencephalography Patterns During a Working Memory Task in Treatment-Resistant Depression: An Exploratory Study.
Bipolar disorders – April 02, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, a promising treatment for severe depression, changes brain wave patterns in memory-related regions while leaving cognitive performance intact. In patients with treatment-resistant depression, a single dose improved mood without affecting working memory or attention. Brain scans revealed shifts in neural activity across key attention networks, suggesting ketamine's antidepressant effects work through unique pathways that preserve cognitive function.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a challenge, necessitating novel interventions that address associated cognitive deficits. The glutama...
Combining Ketamine Infusions and Written Exposure Therapy for Chronic PTSD: An Open-Label Trial.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking treatment combining ketamine infusions with exposure therapy shows remarkable promise for severe PTSD patients. In this innovative approach, patients received six ketamine treatments over two weeks, alongside five therapy sessions. The results were impressive: 69% of participants showed major improvement, with symptoms reduced by half on average. Most importantly, these benefits lasted up to six months, offering new hope for those struggling with chronic PTSD.
Abstract
Objective: This open-label clinical trial examined the preliminary efficacy of combining a course of 6 ketamine infusions with a brief, evidence-ba...
Tinnitus, lucid dreaming and awakening. An online survey and theoretical implications
arXiv Preprint Archive – April 02, 2025
Summary
People with tinnitus experience relief from their phantom sounds while dreaming - over 90% report complete silence during sleep. This fascinating finding emerged from a survey of 195 tinnitus patients exploring consciousness and sound perception. Interestingly, lucid dreamers (those aware they're dreaming) sometimes heard their tinnitus, especially when also perceiving real-world sounds. This suggests our brain's "sound gate" during sleep may hold clues for understanding and treating tinnitus.
Abstract
(1) Background: Tinnitus is the perception of phantom sound in the absence of a corresponding external source. Previous studies reported that the p...
Psilocybin has a narrow therapeutic window as an antidepressant treatment.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
Moderate doses of psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, show optimal antidepressant effects while minimizing side effects. Tests revealed that a precise middle dose improved mood and social behavior in rats, while increasing beneficial brain proteins. Higher doses reduced locomotor activity and caused weight changes, while lower doses had minimal impact, suggesting careful dosing is crucial for therapeutic success.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound in magic mushrooms, shows promise as a novel intervention with a single administration induc...
Esketamine Combined With SSRI or SNRI for Treatment-Resistant Depression.
JAMA psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in treating stubborn depression shows that combining esketamine with certain antidepressants significantly improves outcomes. When paired with SNRIs, the therapy reduced death rates by nearly 4% and cut depression relapses by 6% compared to SSRI combinations. Among 55,000+ patients, both approaches proved remarkably safe, with hospitalization rates below 1%.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a critical challenge in psychiatry, with limited effective options. Esketamine, a rapid-acting antidep...
Exploring the potential of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for moral injury: A scoping review.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promising results in treating moral injury - psychological trauma from events that violate one's core values. Studies examining MDMA, psilocybin, and LSD combined with psychotherapy reveal significant improvements in self-compassion, forgiveness, and PTSD symptoms. The treatments particularly help those struggling with trauma-related moral conflicts and self-acceptance.
Abstract
This scoping review addresses the need to comprehensively explore the potential of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) to facilitate recovery ...
Neurobehavioural Correlates of Breath Meditation in Novice Adolescents: Insights from Anapanasati-based Paradigm.
Annals of neurosciences – April 02, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Breath-awareness practices contribute to stress management and psychological well-being among adolescents. However, their neurobehavioural effects ...
Triple-network model-based graph theory analysis of the effectiveness of low-dose ketamine in patients with treatment-resistant depression: two resting-state functional MRI clinical trials.
The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science – April 02, 2025
Summary
Ketamine shows promise in rewiring brain networks linked to severe depression. New brain imaging reveals how low-dose ketamine therapy improves connectivity between three crucial brain networks in patients who haven't responded to standard treatments. Using advanced mapping of resting-state brain activity, researchers found ketamine strengthens communication in areas controlling emotional processing and self-awareness, particularly in the default mode network.
Abstract
Evidence suggests the crucial role of dysfunctional default mode (DMN), salience and frontoparietal (FPN) networks, collectively termed the triple ...
Acute subjective effects of psychedelics in naturalistic group settings prospectively predict longitudinal improvements in trauma symptoms, trait shame, and connectedness among adults with childhood maltreatment histories.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Studies of psychedelic use in naturalistic and clinical settings have suggested safety and mental health benefits for adults with histories of chil...
The effect of low-dose psilocybin on brain neurotransmission and rat behavior.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – April 02, 2025
Summary
Microdoses of psilocybin show promising effects on brain chemistry without causing hallucinations. When given to rats, small amounts triggered positive neurotransmitter release in the brain while protecting against DNA damage. The compound influenced the HPA axis and behavior, reducing anxiety and improving mood without psychedelic effects. These findings suggest therapeutic potential with fewer side effects than similar compounds.
Abstract
Psilocybin has various therapeutic effects in mental and psychological disorders, including depression and mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive dis...
Ketamine Treatment for Pediatric Refractory Obsessive: Five Open Label Cases.
Journal of child and adolescent psychopharmacology – April 01, 2025
Summary
A single ketamine infusion shows promise as a safe treatment option for teens with severe OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder). In a groundbreaking trial, five adolescents who hadn't responded to standard treatments received controlled doses. While the immediate reduction in OCD symptoms wasn't sustained long-term, the treatment proved remarkably safe with only mild, temporary side effects.
Abstract
Importance: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive behavioral therapy are the first-line treatments for pediatric obsessive-...
Minorities’ diminished psychedelic returns: Depression, suicide, distress, and serious mental illness
Drug Science Policy and Law – April 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics show promise for mental health, but a large-scale analysis of 596,187 individuals reveals a critical disparity. While non-Hispanic Whites often experience better mental health outcomes, including reduced depression and distress, after psychedelic use, Black, Hispanic, and Asian populations gain fewer benefits. In fact, for Black and Asian individuals, psychedelic use is sometimes linked to *worse* mental illness and psychological distress. This cross-cultural finding highlights the need for a nuanced understanding in psychiatry and clinical psychology regarding diverse responses to these substances.
Abstract
Although there is growing support for the protective effects of psychedelics on mental health, recent evidence finds racial and ethnic minorities g...
Neuropharmacology of Ketamine and Its Use in the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: A Review.
Cureus – April 01, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking treatment offers new hope for severe depression: ketamine acts within hours, unlike traditional antidepressants that take weeks. This rapid-acting medication works by blocking NMDA receptors, triggering positive changes in brain chemistry and synaptic connections. Studies show it's particularly effective for treatment-resistant depression, matching the success of electroconvulsive therapy but with faster relief.
Abstract
Depression is a common yet potentially debilitating mood disorder with complex neurobiological underpinnings, including deficiencies in monoaminerg...
A Rapid Review of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in the Context of Palliative Care.
Journal of hospice and palliative nursing : JHPN : the official journal of the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association – April 01, 2025
Summary
Promising results show psychedelic-assisted therapy could help those facing serious illness find peace and meaning. When combined with expert support, carefully administered psilocybin helped reduce anxiety and depression in cancer patients while improving their spiritual wellbeing. Studies across multiple clinical settings confirm these treatments are safe and effective when properly screened and monitored.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) involves supported experiences with psychedelic medicines in carefully curated environments. Early evidence sugg...
Advanced concentrative absorption meditation reorganizes functional connectivity gradients of the brain: 7T MRI and phenomenology case study of jhana meditation.
Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991) – April 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
There is growing scientific interest in advanced meditation, and particularly the Theravada Buddhist advanced concentrative absorption meditation k...
Detection of ketamine in the oral fluid of drivers in northeastern France during the years 2020-2023.
Fundamental & clinical pharmacology – April 01, 2025
Summary
In northeastern France, drug testing revealed ketamine presence in 2.6% of drivers who tested positive for narcotics. Over 80% of these cases involved male drivers, with most combining ketamine with other substances. Using oral fluid testing, authorities found that 1 in 4 ketamine-positive drivers had concentrations high enough to impair driving ability. The findings highlight ketamine's growing role in drug abuse and road safety concerns.
Abstract
Ketamine is a psychoactive substance used for its stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. As the use of ketamine may lead to impaired driving, we ...
Break on Through: Betty Eisner's Problematic Use of Psychedelics, Groups, and Control for Integrative Experiences.
Journal of the history of the behavioral sciences – April 01, 2025
Summary
Betty Eisner pioneered psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in the 1950s, combining LSD sessions with group therapy to create transformative healing experiences. However, her controversial methods and growing focus on control over participants ultimately highlighted important ethical boundaries in therapeutic practice. Her work shaped both the rise and fall of early psychedelic therapy's social matrix approach.
Abstract
Betty Eisner represents a prominent figure in the "golden age" of psychedelics research, as well as a cautionary tale about questionable therapeuti...
Neural mechanisms of psychedelic visual imagery.
Molecular psychiatry – April 01, 2025
Summary
Brain scans reveal how psychedelic mushrooms create vivid mental imagery. When people see colorful visions with closed eyes during a psilocybin experience, it's because the brain's visual areas become more self-regulating while allowing stronger feedback from higher brain regions. This unique pattern helps explain the rich visual experiences commonly reported during psychedelic states.
Abstract
Visual alterations under classic psychedelics can include rich phenomenological accounts of eyes-closed imagery. Preclinical evidence suggests agon...
Esketamine alleviated cardiomyocyte ferroptosis induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) via cyclic GMP-AMP synthase interactor.
Cytotechnology – April 01, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in heart protection reveals how the anesthetic Esketamine safeguards heart cells during oxygen deprivation. The drug prevents a destructive process called ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes by regulating STING proteins. This protective effect significantly reduces inflammation and oxidative stress during periods of restricted blood flow, offering promising implications for heart surgery patients.
Abstract
The use of tourniquets (TQ) during the total knee arthroplasty (TKA) induced ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in the limb, resulting in the releas...
Addressing blinding in classic psychedelic studies with innovative active placebos.
Int J Neuropsychopharmacol – April 01, 2025
Summary
Traditional placebos fall short when testing psychedelic medicines - participants easily guess if they received the real drug. Researchers developed new active placebos that mimic some psychedelic effects while maintaining study integrity. This breakthrough helps validate therapeutic benefits of psychedelics by enabling proper controlled trials without compromising scientific rigor.
Abstract
Addressing blinding in classic psychedelic studies with innovative active placebos.
Psychedelics, spirituality, and existential distress in patients at the end of life.
Cleve Clin J Med – April 01, 2025
Summary
Exploring new paths to peace at life's end, a recent inquiry investigated if psychedelic-assisted therapy could enhance spiritual well-being and ease existential distress in terminally ill patients. Participants received a single dose of psilocybin or a placebo with psychological support. Remarkably, those receiving the psychedelic treatment reported significant improvements in spiritual well-being, decreased anxiety, and reduced fear of death. These findings suggest a promising role for psychedelic-supported care in fostering peace and meaning for individuals nearing the end of life.
Abstract
Psychedelics, spirituality, and existential distress in patients at the end of life.
Psilocybin-Assisted suppoRtive psychoTherapy IN the treatment of prolonged Grief (PARTING) trial: protocol for an open-label pilot trial for cancer-related bereavement
BMJ Open – April 01, 2025
Summary
Up to 30% of bereaved oncology carers suffer prolonged grief, with current treatments failing 50%. A new clinical trial explores Psilocybin as Medicine for Grief. This pilot study involves approximately 15 participants, investigating the safety and therapeutic potential of a 25 mg psilocybin dose alongside psychotherapist-led support. Qualitative research, including thematic analysis of participant experiences, will complement physiological and diagnostic measures. This work, part of Diverse academic research themes in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, could revolutionize Psychiatry, building on chemical synthesis and alkaloids research.
Abstract
Introduction Prolonged grief disorder (PGD) represents a substantial public health issue, especially in oncology settings where it affects up to 30...
Functional connectivity subtypes during a positive mood induction: Predicting clinical response in a randomized controlled trial of ketamine for treatment-resistant depression.
Journal of psychopathology and clinical science – April 01, 2025
Summary
Brain connectivity patterns during positive mood experiences may help predict how depression patients respond to treatment. Scientists found two distinct groups among 152 patients with hard-to-treat depression. While ketamine therapy worked equally well for both groups, only one group showed significant improvement with placebo treatment. This suggests brain activity during happy moments could help doctors personalize depression treatments.
Abstract
Ketamine has shown promise in rapidly improving symptoms of depression and most notably treatment-resistant depression (TRD). However, given the he...
Social Workers' Attitudes and Beliefs about MDMA-Assisted Therapy for Adolescents with PTSD.
Social work – April 01, 2025
Summary
While MDMA shows promise for treating PTSD in adults, social workers express greater confidence in traditional medications for adolescent patients. A survey of 222 social workers revealed they favored selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors over MDMA therapy for treating teen PTSD. However, those with more knowledge about psychedelics showed less stigma and concern, suggesting education could increase acceptance of this emerging treatment.
Abstract
Given the widespread interest and ongoing study on MDMA-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) for PTSD, its implications for unique populations-such as adoles...
Cannabidiol reverses myeloperoxidase hyperactivity in the prefrontal cortex and striatum, and reduces protein carbonyls in the hippocampus in a ketamine-induced schizophrenia rat model.
Schizophrenia research – April 01, 2025
Summary
CBD shows promise in treating schizophrenia by reducing brain inflammation and oxidative stress. In this groundbreaking research, CBD outperformed traditional antipsychotic risperidone in treating ketamine-induced schizophrenia symptoms in rats. Unlike risperidone, CBD restored normal behavior without unwanted side effects and effectively reduced inflammation in key brain regions.
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) has limited treatment options, often with significant side effects. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-euphoric phytocannabinoid, has sho...
Oral ketamine for rapid reduction of suicidal ideation in major depressive disorder: A midazolam-controlled randomized clinical trial.
Asian journal of psychiatry – April 01, 2025
Summary
A single dose of oral ketamine showed remarkable potential in rapidly reducing suicidal thoughts in people with major depressive disorder. In this controlled trial, patients received either oral ketamine or midazolam (a comparison drug). Those given ketamine experienced significant improvements in both suicidal ideation and depression symptoms within 4 hours, with benefits lasting up to a week. While some experienced mild adverse effects like nausea, the treatment was well-tolerated.
Abstract
The simplest, most convenient, and least expensive way to treat depressed and suicidal patients with ketamine is to administer racemic ketamine by ...
Psilocybin: Systematic review of its use in the treatment of depression
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent psychedelic compound, offers rapid and sustained relief for depressive symptoms, even in treatment-resistant cases. A systematic review of drug studies published between 2019 and 2024, focusing on this alkaloid, revealed significant improvements compared to standard treatments. Often derived through chemical synthesis, psilocybin provides symptomatic relief with fewer treatment sessions and a favorable safety profile. This suggests a promising new direction in psychedelics and drug studies for mental health.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, has shown potential in treating depression, especially in cases resistant to conventional treatmen...
Perioperative esketamine combined with butorphanol versus butorphanol alone for pain management following video-assisted lobectomy: a randomized controlled trial.
International journal of clinical pharmacy – April 01, 2025
Summary
Adding esketamine to pain management after thoracic surgery can significantly reduce acute post-operative discomfort. In a breakthrough finding, patients receiving combined esketamine-butorphanol treatment experienced better pain control within 48 hours of surgery and showed improved recovery quality. While long-term pain outcomes were similar, the combined therapy offered superior immediate relief without major side effects.
Abstract
The analgesic efficacy of esketamine combined with butorphanol in thoracoscopic surgery remains unclear. This study explored the effects of periope...
MDMA-Assisted Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Regulatory Challenges and a Path Forward.
CNS drugs – April 01, 2025
Summary
MDMA-assisted therapy shows remarkable promise in treating PTSD, with nearly 70% of participants experiencing such significant improvement that they no longer met diagnostic criteria. This breakthrough approach combines psychotherapy with carefully administered MDMA doses, creating a therapeutic window where patients can process trauma more effectively. Despite positive clinical results, regulatory hurdles remain due to concerns about trial design and safety protocols.
Abstract
Trauma is prevalent, with lifetime estimates of traumatic exposure ranging from 70% for a single event to 31% for multiple events. While many recov...
The Role of the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex in Ego Dissolution and Emotional Arousal During the Psychedelic State.
Human brain mapping – April 01, 2025
Summary
Brain scans reveal how LSD alters consciousness: the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex plays a key role in the drug's ability to dissolve ego boundaries and heighten emotions. Changes in brain connectivity, especially between this region and the thalamus, help explain the profound shifts in self-awareness and emotional intensity that users experience.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a classic serotonergic psychedelic that induces a profoundly altered conscious state. In conjunction with psych...
The Postoperative Lidocaine and Ketamine Effects on Morphine Requirement in Bariatric Surgery.
Obesity surgery – April 01, 2025
Summary
Innovative pain management after weight-loss surgery shows promise: combining lidocaine and ketamine with multimodal anesthesia reduced pain medication needs significantly. In a breakthrough for metabolic bariatric surgery, 62.5% of patients needed no morphine in the first 48 hours post-surgery. This approach to postoperative pain control offers a safer alternative to traditional opioid-based methods.
Abstract
Effective postoperative pain management in patients with obesity undergoing metabolic bariatric surgery is challenging due to the adverse effects a...
Ketamine for Critically Ill Patients with Severe Acute Brain Injury: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.
Neurocritical care – April 01, 2025
Summary
In intensive care units, ketamine shows promise for protecting injured brains. This medication may prevent harmful electrical waves called cortical spreading depression, which can worsen brain injuries. Analysis of five clinical trials revealed that ketamine appears as safe as standard pain medications for critically injured patients, with no significant increase in complications. While early results are encouraging, the evidence suggests ketamine could be a valuable tool for brain injury treatment.
Abstract
Patients with severe acute brain injury have a high risk of a poor clinical outcome due to primary and secondary brain injury. Ketamine reportedly ...
Negative Affect Circuit Subtypes and Neural, Behavioral, and Affective Responses to MDMA: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
JAMA network open – April 01, 2025
Summary
MDMA, known for its therapeutic potential, shows promising results in regulating emotional responses in the brain. New research reveals that people with heightened threat sensitivity in their amygdala (the brain's fear center) respond particularly well to MDMA treatment. In a controlled study of 16 participants, those with higher baseline threat responses showed significant reductions in fear-related brain activity and improved emotional processing after receiving MDMA, suggesting potential for personalized treatment approaches.
Abstract
Rapidly acting therapeutics like 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) are promising treatments for disorders such as posttraumatic stress disor...
Safety and efficacy of methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy in post-traumatic stress disorder: An overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
The Australian and New Zealand journal of psychiatry – April 01, 2025
Summary
MDMA-assisted therapy shows promising results in treating post-traumatic stress disorder, with patients up to three times more likely to experience symptom relief compared to traditional therapy alone. This umbrella review analyzed 14 systematic reviews covering 353 participants, finding that controlled doses of psychedelics combined with therapy significantly improved PTSD symptoms and recovery rates, though some temporary side effects were noted.
Abstract
To critically evaluate published and unpublished systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the safety and efficacy of methylenedioxymethamphetamine-a...
Experience after Floatation-REST: Relaxation during floating mediates the afterglow effect.
Consciousness and cognition – April 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
The term "afterglow" originally described the heightened mood and relaxation following psychedelics and later extended to other altered states. Des...
Synthesis and analytical characterization of 1-(2-thienoyl)-6-allyl-nor-d-lysergic acid diethylamide (1T-AL-LAD).
Drug testing and analysis – April 01, 2025
Summary
Scientists have identified a new variant of lysergamide emerging in recreational drug markets. Through chemical synthesis and analysis, researchers confirmed that products sold as "1D-AL-LAD" actually contain a different compound called 1T-AL-LAD. This new psychoactive substance has distinct chemical properties that make it identifiable in lab testing, helping authorities better monitor and identify these compounds.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) analogs have emerged as new psychoactive substances (NPS) since the mid-2010s, and new compounds continue to emerg...
Effect of esketamine on postoperative depression in women with breast cancer and preoperative depressive symptoms: The EASE randomized trial.
Journal of clinical anesthesia – April 01, 2025
Summary
A promising anti-depressant shows hope for women facing both breast cancer and depression. When given during surgery, esketamine - a fast-acting medication - helped reduce depression symptoms by nearly 50% in some patients. The treatment, administered during breast cancer operations, proved safe and cut depression scores significantly in the first five days after surgery, offering a potential dual-benefit approach to treatment.
Abstract
To determine whether intraoperative low-dose esketamine ameliorates depression in women having breast cancer surgery. A prospective single-center d...
Improvements in functioning and workplace productivity with esketamine nasal spray versus quetiapine extended release in patients with treatment resistant depression: Findings from a 32-week randomised, open-label, rater-blinded phase IIIb study.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – April 01, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in treating stubborn depression shows promising results for workplace success. Esketamine nasal spray significantly outperformed traditional medication quetiapine in helping people with treatment-resistant depression return to normal functioning. Over 32 weeks, patients using esketamine experienced 43% more weeks of improved daily function and showed 14% better workplace productivity compared to those using quetiapine. Both treatments were combined with standard antidepressants.
Abstract
Patients with treatment resistant depression (TRD) experience a greater negative impact on their functioning and productivity at home and in the wo...
From Efficacy to Effectiveness: Evaluating Psychedelic Randomized Controlled Trials for Trustworthy Evidence‐Based Policy and Practice
Pharmacology Research & Perspectives – April 01, 2025
Summary
The effectiveness of psychedelic therapies, like MDMA for PTSD, hinges on how they're regulated. Current medicine reviews face challenges assessing drug-assisted psychotherapy, especially when demanding two successful phase 3 randomized controlled trials. Issues with blinding and internal validity arise. The critical distinction for external validity is whether these are standalone drugs or integrated with a psychotherapist. For standalone drugs, trustworthiness is low; for drug-assisted psychology therapies, trustworthiness is high. Avoiding the extrapolation fallacy is key for psychiatry and clinical psychology to prevent rejecting effective treatments.
Abstract
ABSTRACT The recent review of a new drug application for MDMA‐assisted therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder by the United States' Food and Dru...
Pragmatism as Idealism? The Case of Mary Whiton Calkins.
Journal of the history of the behavioral sciences – April 01, 2025
Summary
Mary Whiton Calkins, a pioneering figure in American psychology, challenged conventional wisdom by arguing that pragmatism and idealism weren't opposing philosophies but complementary approaches. Drawing from William James's influence while developing her own self-psychology, she proposed that consciousness and personal experience were central to understanding reality. Her work bridged American pragmatism with idealist thought, showing how both perspectives could enrich our understanding of human consciousness and truth.
Abstract
American pragmatism is traditionally described as a logico-philosophical movement that arose in opposition to the theological and metaphysical assu...
Effect of Heartfulness Meditation on Stress Biomarkers, Burnout and Well-Being: A Randomized Controlled Study.
Stress and health : journal of the International Society for the Investigation of Stress – April 01, 2025
Summary
Daily meditation for just 12 weeks can significantly reduce stress hormones and boost mental well-being, according to compelling new findings. Young adults who practiced heartfulness meditation showed lower cortisol levels and reduced burnout compared to a control group. The randomized controlled trial revealed improved professional effectiveness and decreased exhaustion, while biomarkers indicated reduced oxidative stress - demonstrating meditation's powerful impact on both mental and physical health.
Abstract
The rise in mental health conditions and stress has attracted global attention. Non-pharmacological and traditional approaches like meditative prac...
Lithium attenuates ketamine-induced long-term neurotoxicity through DISC1-mediated GSK-3β/β-catenin and ERK/CREB pathways.
Toxicology letters – April 01, 2025
Summary
While ketamine is vital in pediatric anesthesia, its repeated use can harm developing brains. Researchers found that lithium can protect against ketamine's toxic effects on nerve cells. The study revealed that lithium activates protective pathways in the brain, specifically the GSK-3β/β-catenin and ERK/CREB systems, by boosting DISC1 protein levels. This discovery offers a promising way to make ketamine safer for young patients.
Abstract
Ketamine, an antagonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, is extensively employed in pediatric anesthesia. Multiple studies have shown that repeate...