3034 results for "Psilocybin"
Hallucinogen chemistry guides antidepressant drug discovery
C&EN Global Enterprise – February 07, 2022
Summary
A breakthrough in drug discovery reveals how hallucinogen compounds like LSD and psilocybin bind to a specific serotonin receptor (5-HT 2A), causing their psychedelic effects. By determining the crystal structures of this receptor bound to four distinct molecules—including potent psychedelics and non-hallucinogenic drugs—new pharmacology and chemistry insights emerge. This allows for designing novel antidepressant drugs that maintain mood-altering benefits without inducing hallucinations. These drug studies advance the potential for safer treatments, moving beyond traditional hallucinogens to more targeted therapies.
Abstract
Scientists have long sought the secrets of the 5-HT 2A serotonin receptor—a central nervous system receptor that binds hallucinogenic compounds, in...
Psychedelic Assisted Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder: A Review
OpenAlex – June 27, 2021
Summary
Combining the psychedelic psilocybin with psychotherapy yields more enduring antidepressant effects than either alone, a finding from a review of six major clinical trials. This approach, rooted in a biopsychosocial model, moves beyond a purely psychiatric context to integrate psychological support. Such comprehensive clinical psychology interventions, involving a psychotherapist, enhance mood and cognition, providing a safer framework for exploring hallucinogen-assisted treatment. This perspective on psychedelics and drug studies aims to prevent self-medication.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances such as psilocybin and ketamine may represent the future of antidepressant treatment, due to their rapid and prolonged effec...
Effective connectivity of the human claustrum: Triple networks, subcortical circuits, and psychedelic modulation
OpenAlex – September 12, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin dramatically reconfigures how our brains regulate activity, a fascinating discovery for Functional Brain Connectivity Studies. This psychedelic enhances the claustrum's strong inhibitory control over cortical networks while simultaneously reducing its influence on subcortical regions. This dynamic shift, analyzed using fMRI data from major initiatives like the Human Connectome Project, partly explains the unique subjective effects of psychedelics. Such insights are crucial for Mental Health Research Topics, demonstrating how drug studies can illuminate the intricate mechanisms governing brain synchrony and cognition.
Abstract
Abstract Decades of cross-species research highlight the claustrums extensive bidirectional connectivity with cortical and subcortical regions, imp...
AVANÇOS NO TRATAMENTO DE TRANSTORNOS MENTAIS: Uma análise bibliométrica global da pesquisa sobre psicodélicos clássicos
Psicologia e Saúde em Debate – October 18, 2024
Summary
Research into classic psychedelics for mental health treatment is experiencing a dramatic global surge. An analysis of 4,235 publications from 91 countries reveals a strong, accelerating trend in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Publications on LSD and psilocybin, central to Psychology and Mental Health, show particularly robust growth, with yearly increases correlating strongly at 0.92 and 0.94 respectively. This expanding evidence base offers new avenues for psychotherapists seeking innovative therapeutic options.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics are being globally investigated for their therapeutic potential in mental disorders, however, the literature offers little inf...
The Effects of Serotonergic Psychedelics on Neural Activity: A Meta-Analysis of Task-Based Functional Neuroimaging Studies
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA profoundly alter brain activity. A meta-analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies, a key neuroimaging tool in Neuroscience, reveals that serotonergic hallucinogens significantly impact neural activation across the cerebral cortex and basal ganglia. This work advances functional neuroimaging understanding, particularly regarding neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. Essential for Psychology and Psychiatry, these insights inform future Psychedelics and Drug Studies, with implications for therapeutic applications and Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis.
Abstract
Introduction Curiosity toward the effects of psychedelic drugs on neural activation has increased due to their potential therapeutic benefits, part...
Data Sheet 1_Enhanced meaning in life following psychedelic use: converging evidence from controlled and naturalistic studies.pdf
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – June 06, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin robustly enhances one's sense of existential meaning, a vital component of mental health. Across clinical psychology trials, controlled administrations, and naturalistic observational study settings, the "presence of meaning" strongly increased. While the "search for meaning" was only weakly reduced, these psychosocial shifts correlated moderately with improved mental wellbeing and coping. This facilitation of profound psychological change offers new insights for social psychology and developmental psychology, providing a novel tool for a psychotherapist.
Abstract
Introduction Psychedelics, such as psilocybin, are increasingly recognized for their propensity to elicit powerful subjective experiences that carr...
Knowledge, perceptions, and use of psychedelics for mental health among autistic adults: An online survey
PLOS mental health. – December 26, 2025
Summary
Autistic adults show strong interest in psychedelics for mental health support. A computer-assisted web interviewing survey of 261 autistic participants found 77.8% willing to try psychedelics like psilocybin for conditions such as anxiety, often addressed in clinical psychology. Remarkably, 69.7% reported past use, with higher doses correlating with lasting mental health improvements. Descriptive statistics underscore the need for inclusive psychiatry and mental health services, acknowledging autistic individuals' distinct needs compared to neurotypical populations in psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA have shown promise in treating mental health conditions (e.g., depression, post-traumatic stress dis...
670. CAN WE RE-MEDICALISE THE PSYCHEDELIC EXPERIENCE?
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – August 01, 2025
Summary
A single dose of a synthetic psilocybin compound dramatically reduced depression symptoms in patients with treatment-resistant depression. In a trial involving 233 participants, those receiving 25mg experienced significant improvements in depression scores from day two, persisting through week six compared to a 1mg control. This advance in Psychology, Psychedelics, and Drug Studies suggests these compounds offer rapid, sustained relief for a debilitating condition. Over 90% of adverse events were mild or moderate, indicating good tolerability.
Abstract
Abstract Background Despite the widespread availability of multiple antidepressant treatments, depression remains a common and sometimes debilitati...
Efficacy and Safety of Psychedelics in Mental Disorder Cases: An Umbrella Review of Meta-Analyses of Randomized Controlled Trials
Journal of Clinical Medicine – December 29, 2025
Summary
MDMA dramatically reduces PTSD symptoms, showing a Hedges’ g of 1.24, often after only 2–3 sessions. Psilocybin similarly offers a large effect (Hedges’ g ≈ 1.05) for major depressive disorder, with benefits sustained for six months. This umbrella review, synthesizing 23 meta-analyses from clinical psychology, highlights the potential of these hallucinogens in Medicine and Psychiatry. LSD also showed short-term benefits for alcohol use disorder. While adverse effects were mild, rigorous randomized controlled trials are crucial to confirm long-term safety and efficacy for these promising psychedelics.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelic-assisted therapy is gaining renewed attention as a potential treatment for various mental disorders. Despite increasing num...
[Determination of amanita peptide and tryptamine toxins in wild mushrooms by high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry].
Se pu = Chinese journal of chromatography – November 01, 2023
Summary
Scientists developed a cutting-edge method to detect dangerous toxins in wild mushrooms. Using HPLC-MS/MS technology, they successfully identified and measured amanitins, phallotoxins, and psychoactive compounds like bufotenine in mushroom samples. Testing 59 wild specimens from Fujian Province revealed two toxic samples, including one with potentially lethal levels of amatoxins.
Abstract
The discovery and identification of mushroom toxins has long been an important area in the fields of toxicology and food safety. Mushrooms are wide...
Psychedelics, Meaningfulness, and the "Proper Scope" of Medicine: Continuing the Conversation.
Cambridge quarterly of healthcare ethics : CQ : the international journal of healthcare ethics committees – June 27, 2023
Summary
Emerging research reveals that psychedelics' therapeutic benefits may be deeply linked to their consciousness-altering effects. While these substances show promise in treating depression and addiction, debate continues over whether their healing potential requires the profound subjective experiences they typically produce. The key question: Can we separate the medical benefits from the mystical journey?
Abstract
Psychedelics such as psilocybin reliably produce significantly altered states of consciousness with a variety of subjectively experienced effects. ...
5-MeO-DMT modifies innate behaviors and promotes structural neural plasticity in mice.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – August 01, 2023
Summary
A naturally-occurring compound found in some toads shows promise in rapidly reshaping brain connections. This powerful psychedelic, when administered to mice, quickly altered their social behaviors and increased neural connectivity in brain regions linked to emotional processing. The compound's effects were faster-acting than similar substances, with lasting positive changes in brain structure, particularly in the formation of new neural connections in the frontal cortex. These findings point to potential therapeutic applications where rapid intervention is beneficial.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics are gaining increasing interest as potential therapeutics for a range of mental illnesses. Compounds with short-lived sub...
Stimulation of rat prolactin secretion by indolealkylamine hallucinogens.
Psychopharmacology – April 11, 1978
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
The hallucinogenic indoleamine drugs N,N-dimethyltryptamine (N,N-DMT), psilocybin, bufotenin, 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine, and N-methyltryptam...
From Mushrooms to Myolysis
The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease – July 29, 2022
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract The involvement of certain recreational drugs, namely, hallucinogens, in the development of hyperactive syndromes is well known, but not w...
Toward Standardized Products Containing Biomass of Psilocybe Cubensis Fungi
Journal of AOAC International – August 13, 2025
Summary
Cultivating *Psilocybe cubensis* under controlled botanical conditions yields a safe, standardized biomass for human consumption. Analysis confirmed a mean psychoactive alkaloid content of 1.14% by weight, critical for **psychedelics and drug studies**. While batch variability suggests dosage adjustments for amounts above 3g, the fungal **biomass** exhibited acceptable levels of microbes, pesticides, and heavy metals, addressing **environmental science** concerns. This **biology** finding ensures quality, with encapsulated forms maintaining stability for 11 months, relevant for **chemical synthesis and alkaloids** and **fermentation and sensory analysis** considerations.
Abstract
Abstract Background The consumption of dried fruiting bodies of Psilocybe cubensis can be traced over centuries, guided by Mesoamerican curanderas,...
Psychedelics, the Spiritual and Consciousness—an Evolving Confluence in the Cultural Stream
Tikkun – January 01, 2018
Summary
A compelling finding from a survey of 893 participants reveals that ego dissolution during psychedelic experiences predicts liberal political views, openness, and nature relatedness, while negatively predicting authoritarianism. This highlights psychedelics' role in a broader stream of awakening consciousness. Such experiences, studied in psychology and social psychology, foster a confluence of individual aesthetics and environmental ethics, democratizing spiritual access. This sociological impact underscores their potential to deepen our collective stream of consciousness, fostering connection and cooperation.
Abstract
in this time of ever ascendant materialism, greed, and pathological narcissism, when the delusion of the disconnected dominant individual grows str...
Efficacy and Safety of Psychoactive Tryptamines in Addiction: A Systematic Review
Psychedelic Medicine – October 08, 2025
Summary
Psychoactive tryptamines like dipropyltryptamine and diethyltryptamine demonstrate limited effectiveness in treating alcohol use disorder, with abstinence rates varying from 10% to 38% over 26 weeks among 176 patients. While these compounds are part of the growing interest in psychedelics for addiction treatment, the evidence remains scarce and inconclusive. Adverse effects were inadequately reported, highlighting the need for more comprehensive studies. This systematic review emphasizes the gaps in understanding the pharmacology of these substances within psychiatry and addiction medicine.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelics such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin have shown a beneficial effect on substance use disorder (SUD) sym...
A systematic review of participant diversity in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy trials.
Psychiatry research – March 01, 2025
Summary
Despite promising breakthroughs in psychedelic therapy, clinical trials show concerning gaps in participant diversity. Analysis of 21 trials using MDMA and psilocybin revealed that Black participants made up only 2.2% of subjects, while Hispanic representation was just 7.2%. MDMA studies showed better diversity than psilocybin research. While gender was consistently tracked, other key demographics like sexual orientation and gender identity were rarely monitored. This systematic review highlights opportunities to make psychedelic therapy research more inclusive.
Abstract
A lack of diverse and representative participant samples in mental health intervention research perpetuates mental health disparities. This issue h...
The psychedelic call: analysis of Australian Poisons Information Centre calls associated with classic psychedelics.
Clinical toxicology (Philadelphia, Pa.) – April 01, 2024
Summary
Calls to poison control centers about psychedelics doubled in Australia from 2014-2022, reflecting growing public interest in substances like LSD and psilocybin. Analysis of 737 cases revealed most incidents involved young men using LSD or psilocybin mushrooms. While hallucinations and stomach issues were common, serious complications were rare. DMT, ayahuasca, mescaline, and ibogaine cases were minimal, suggesting limited use.
Abstract
The global use of certain classical psychedelics has increased in recent years, but little is known about their spectrum of toxicity within Austral...
Psychedelic Experiences Increase Mind Perception but do not Change Atheist-Believer Status: A Prospective Longitudinal Study
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – May 07, 2024
Summary
A fascinating longitudinal study reveals a profound psychological shift: psilocybin experiences significantly alter perception, increasing "mind perception" across a variety of entities, from plants to rocks. Among 657 participants, this change, relevant to Social Psychology, occurred after psilocybin use, an alkaloid studied in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. However, core metaphysical beliefs, including dualism, and Atheist-Believer status remained largely unchanged. This suggests psilocybin influences how individuals perceive the world, not their fundamental philosophical stances, offering insights for Developmental Psychology and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies.
Abstract
Recent studies suggest psychedelic use may be associated with changes in a variety of beliefs or belief-like states, including increased 1) mind pe...
Associations between MDMA/ecstasy, classic psychedelics, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors in a sample of U.S. adolescents.
Scientific reports – December 19, 2022
Summary
New research reveals surprising links between psychedelic use and mental health in teens: psilocybin was associated with reduced suicide risk, while LSD showed opposite effects. Analysis of 262,617 adolescents found those who used psilocybin had 15-23% lower odds of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. MDMA and other psychedelics showed no significant impact.
Abstract
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death amongst adolescents and decades of research have failed to curb suicide rates within this population....
Accurate and Interpretable Prediction of Antidepressant Treatment Response from Receptor-informed Neuroimaging
CrossRef
Summary
Predicting individual depression treatment response is challenging. New predictive tools, using pre-treatment brain imaging and clinical data, accurately forecast antidepressant response in major depressive disorder. This advanced approach achieved strong accuracy, identifying biomarkers tied to better outcomes in serotonin systems. Comparing psychedelic-assisted therapy with psilocybin and escitalopram, psilocybin showed a group-level advantage. It also pinpointed specific brain profiles suggesting who would benefit more from escitalopram, enhancing treatment selection. This advances precision medicine and biomarker discovery, enabling more personalized care.
Abstract
Conventional antidepressants show moderate efficacy in treating major depressive disorder. Psychedelic-assisted therapy holds promise, yet individu...
Exploring serotonergic psychedelics as a treatment for personality disorders.
Neuropharmacology – July 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin may help reshape core personality traits, offering hope for treating personality disorders that are often resistant to conventional treatments. Clinical trials show that psilocybin-assisted therapy can improve self-awareness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal functioning. The combination of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy appears particularly effective at promoting lasting positive changes in personality structure.
Abstract
Both psychotherapeutic interventions and pharmacological agents have demonstrated limited efficacy in the treatment of personality disorders (PDs)....
Exploring the Potential of Psychedelics in the Treatment of Headache Disorders: Clinical Considerations and Exploratory Insights.
Current pain and headache reports – January 16, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough findings show psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD may offer hope for severe headache disorders. Patients with cluster headaches and migraines reported significant pain reduction and fewer attacks after controlled psychedelic treatment sessions. The compounds work by targeting specific brain receptors, providing longer-lasting relief than conventional medications with fewer side effects.
Abstract
Exploration of the potential of serotonergic psychedelic drugs, such as psilocybin and LSD, as potential treatments for headache disorders. This re...
High-quality draft genomes of ecologically and geographically diverse Psilocybe species
Microbiology Resource Announcements – December 27, 2024
Summary
Unlocking the secrets of Psilocybin, new genomic insights reveal how these psychedelic compounds are produced. Five Psilocybe mushroom genomes, including *P. semilanceata* and *P. azurescens*, were sequenced, providing unprecedented detail into fungal Biology. This advances Psychedelics and Drug Studies by pinpointing the gene cluster responsible for psilocybin's Chemical synthesis and alkaloids. Understanding these genetics also clarifies taxonomic relationships, hinting at potential connections with Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions in their ecosystems.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Psilocybe is a genus of mushroom-forming fungi with ecological, ethnomycological, and clinical importance due to psilocybin production by ...
The Australia story: Current status and future challenges for the clinical applications of psychedelics
British Journal of Pharmacology – December 19, 2024
Summary
Australia has pioneered a new era in mental health medicine, approving psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression and MDMA for PTSD from July 1, 2023. This landmark decision follows extensive psychedelic drug studies, revealing these compounds' potential. Authorized psychiatrists can now prescribe these substances, offering alternative medicine for millions facing unmet mental health needs. Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, and MDMA represent a shift in psychiatry, reflecting diverse academic research themes, including insights from chemical synthesis and alkaloids. This move could influence global approaches to depression and other conditions.
Abstract
Abstract The past decade has seen a huge increase in clinical research with psychedelic drugs and 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), which h...
Associations between psychedelic use and cannabis use disorder in a nationally representative sample.
Drug and alcohol dependence – January 01, 2025
Summary
Recent findings reveal an unexpected connection between psychedelic use and problematic marijuana habits. Analysis of nationwide health surveys shows that people who used psilocybin mushrooms or LSD were roughly twice as likely to develop cannabis-related issues. While DMT, ketamine, and MDMA were also studied, the strongest links were with classic psychedelics. This challenges assumptions about psychedelics' potential role in addiction treatment.
Abstract
Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is an increasingly prevalent disorder affecting millions of Americans each year. Psychedelic compounds have recently be...
Psychedelics as a potential treatment for tobacco use disorder: a systematic review.
Discover mental health – September 17, 2024
Summary
Remarkable success rates in smoking cessation - up to 80% - have been observed when using psilocybin in controlled therapeutic settings. Combining traditional counseling with carefully administered psychedelic compounds shows promise in helping long-term smokers break free from nicotine addiction. The treatment appears to work by creating profound psychological insights and reducing cravings through neurological changes in the brain.
Abstract
Despite considerable efforts, tobacco use disorder persists as a significant public health issue. The effectiveness of current smoking cessation th...
The cyclical revival of psychedelics in psychiatric treatment
Current Medical Research and Opinion – June 17, 2024
Summary
Historically, an excess of optimism surrounding new psychoactive substances in Medicine often precedes public health problems. Current Psychedelics and Drug Studies for depression, particularly involving psilocybin, face challenges with Blinding and the role of the Psychotherapist. Preliminary phase 2 findings are inconclusive. Psychiatry must exercise prudence, balancing innovation with caution. Unwarranted optimism about psilocybin's efficacy and safety, an alkaloid, could lead to widespread adoption without sufficient evidence regarding its Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior.
Abstract
There is an increasing demand for effective treatments for depression, particularly for individuals grappling with treatment-resistant depression. ...
Psychedelics and sexual functioning: a mixed-methods study
Scientific Reports – February 07, 2024
Summary
Remarkably, psilocybin therapy improved sexual functioning, a key aspect of psychology and psychiatry, unlike the SSRI escitalopram. Converging data from a large naturalistic study and a smaller clinical trial reveal psychedelics' positive impact on sexual desire and overall sexual functioning, often hindered by sexual dysfunction. This work in clinical psychology suggests that neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, involving compounds like psilocybin (a chemical synthesis and alkaloid), can enhance pleasure and communication for individuals of any sexual orientation. This opens new avenues in psychedelics and drug studies for wellbeing.
Abstract
Abstract Do psychedelics affect sexual functioning postacutely? Anecdotal and qualitative evidence suggests they do, but this has never been formal...
Validation of the Danish Translation of the Revised Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ30) and Possible Impact of Setting, Dose and Intention
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – January 15, 2024
Summary
A Danish questionnaire assessing mystical experiences, relevant to Psychology and Clinical psychology, demonstrated excellent reliability. This tool, crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, was validated using psilocybin, a psychedelic alkaloid. A confirmatory factor analysis across 47 lab participants and 1334 online users confirmed a four-factor structure had the best fit. This robust measure of Mysticism correlated with psilocybin dose and spiritual intention, but not setting, confirming its validity for understanding profound psychedelic experiences.
Abstract
Research suggests positive changes in both well-being and psychiatric symptoms following a psychedelic experience. One explanation may be the abili...
Exploring Psilocybe spp. mycelium and fruiting body chemistry for potential therapeutic compounds
Frontiers in Fungal Biology – November 29, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding reveals psilocybin, the primary indole alkaloid in "magic" mushrooms, is preferentially accumulated in fruiting bodies, not the mycelium. Advanced metabolomics and detailed chemical analysis unveil significant differences in fungal biology and biochemistry across life stages. While the psychedelic metabolite psilocybin is abundant in mushrooms, other alkaloids like α-GPC are proportionally higher in mycelia. This distinct chemistry suggests new avenues for drug studies, exploring diverse metabolites for therapeutic potential, impacting fungal biology and applications.
Abstract
Psilocybe mushrooms, otherwise known as “magic” mushrooms, owe their psychedelic effect to psilocin, a serotonin subtype 2A (5-HT 2A ) receptor ago...
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Serotonin Receptor and Transient Receptor Potential Channel Ligands in Human Small Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Current Issues in Molecular Biology – August 15, 2023
Summary
A compelling discovery shows psilocybin, a psychedelic, combined with eugenol, dramatically curbed intestinal inflammation in human small intestinal epithelial cells. Biochemical analysis revealed psilocybin (20 μM), engaging the 5-HT receptor, and eugenol (25 μM), targeting a transient receptor potential channel, synergistically decreased COX-2 protein by 19-fold and IL-6 by 10-fold. This chemistry-driven insight, vital for drug studies and cell biology, highlights a non-cytotoxic strategy for inflammatory bowel diseases, advancing our understanding of serotonin's role in biology and endocrinology.
Abstract
Intestinal inflammation and dysbiosis can lead to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and systemic inflammation, affecting multiple organs. Developin...
The Potential of Psychedelics for the Treatment of Episodic Migraine.
Current pain and headache reports – September 01, 2023
Summary
Promising breakthrough: A single low dose of psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, reduced both migraine frequency and pain intensity for two weeks in patients with episodic headaches. The treatment showed both immediate relief and lasting benefits, offering hope for millions who suffer from debilitating migraines. The findings suggest psychedelics could revolutionize migraine care.
Abstract
This review presents the existing literature of and a framework for how psychedelic drugs might be applied as therapeutic agents in episodic migrai...
Use of Selective Alternative Therapies for Treatment of OCD.
Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment – January 01, 2023
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals that psychedelic compounds like psilocybin may offer hope for those struggling with severe obsessions and compulsions. Alternative treatments, including certain psychoactive substances, showed remarkable success in reducing OCD symptoms. Cannabis, nicotine, and morphine demonstrated positive outcomes, with psilocybin users reporting the most significant improvements in managing intrusive thoughts and ritualistic behaviors.
Abstract
About 40% of the people with the obsessive-compulsive-disorder do not experience the desired outcome after the existing treatment, and its several ...
Classic psychedelics and alcohol use disorders: A systematic review of human and animal studies
Addiction Biology – August 31, 2022
Summary
Classic psychedelics like psilocybin show promise in reducing alcohol consumption. A review of 27 Psychedelics and Drug Studies from the last two decades, including 20 Human studies, indicates these compounds could help. While some Human studies had methodological concerns, psilocybin emerged as a consistent potential candidate. Animal studies (7 included) were scarcer and less conclusive. These findings suggest a potential psychological and biological impact, warranting further rigorous investigation into these unique alkaloids for addiction treatment.
Abstract
Abstract Classic psychedelics refer to substances such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, ayahuasca, and mescaline, which induce alte...
The Safety and Efficacy of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies for Older Adults: Knowns and Unknowns.
The American journal of geriatric psychiatry : official journal of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry – January 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough treatments using psilocybin and MDMA show promise for older adults struggling with depression, PTSD, and grief. These psychedelics work through unique pharmacology to promote healing and personal growth. Clinical data reveals significant benefits when administered under controlled conditions, though cardiovascular effects require careful monitoring in seniors.
Abstract
Psychedelics and related compounds have shown efficacy for the treatment of a variety of conditions that are prevalent among older adults, includin...
Psychedelics and health behaviour change
Journal of Psychopharmacology – May 29, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin, a psychedelic, is emerging as a powerful psychological intervention for public health, showing promise in driving significant behavior change. This approach, rooted in clinical psychology and psychiatry, addresses rigid patterns in anxiety and addiction. Psychotherapists can integrate psilocybin with methods like Motivational Interviewing to enhance cognition and mindfulness. Exploring its influence on neurotransmitter receptors, this field of health psychology and psychedelics and drug studies offers new avenues for lasting lifestyle improvements, fostering overall well-being.
Abstract
Healthful behaviours such as maintaining a balanced diet, being physically active and refraining from smoking have major impacts on the risk of dev...
Informed Consent Documents from Psychedelic Clinical Trials: A Descriptive Ethical Analysis.
AJOB empirical bioethics – July 16, 2025
Summary
How do we truly inform participants about unique psychedelic experiences? Analyzing informed consent documents from psilocybin clinical trials, researchers found that while essential risks were well-covered, details specific to altered states, like ineffability, were less common. This highlights ongoing efforts in psychedelic bioethics to develop enhanced consent, ensuring comprehensive participant understanding for psychedelic clinical trials.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics, such as psilocybin and LSD, evoke certain kinds of altered states of consciousness. Specific features of the experience, such...
Spatiotemporal Mapping of Online Interest in Cannabis and Popular Psychedelics before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health – May 29, 2022
Summary
Interest in psilocybin significantly increased during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Poland. Online search data, acting as a sensing technique for public psychology, revealed that 12 (60%) of 20 popular hallucinogens, including cannabis, exhibited distinct seasonal patterns across different geographies. Psilocybin and ayahuasca showed annual interest peaks, while cannabis displayed quarterly fluctuations. These insights from Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlight evolving trends in drug interest, offering valuable information for public health monitoring during and after the pandemic.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelics represent a unique subset of psychoactive substances that can induce an aberrant state of consciousness principally via th...
Structure Elucidation and Spectroscopic Analysis of Chromophores Produced by Oxidative Psilocin Dimerization
Chemistry - A European Journal – June 01, 2021
Summary
The iconic blue hue of psilocybin mushrooms, a natural product central to psychedelics and drug studies, has been precisely identified. Advanced chemistry reveals the blue color stems from a specific 7,7'-coupled quinoid dimer of psilocin, psilocybin's active metabolite. Previous assumptions pointed to a 5,5'-coupled dimer. Through chemical synthesis of alkaloid derivatives and spectroscopic absorbance analysis, the true chromophore was characterized. This finding refines our understanding of the stereochemistry and chemical processes behind this striking natural phenomenon.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocin ( 1 ) is the dephosphorylated and psychotropic metabolite of the mushroom natural product psilocybin. Oxidation of the phenolic h...
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
Electrodynamics of the Psychedelic Experience
Preprints.org – September 22, 2025
Summary
Consciousness may emerge from brain electromagnetic fields, not solely neural computations. Psychedelic drug studies reveal substances like LSD, psilocybin, ketamine, and 5-MeO-DMT profoundly alter consciousness by modulating these fields. Evidence suggests these chemicals act as "field resonance enhancers." LSD produces sustained coherence, psilocybin increases oscillatory flexibility, ketamine causes dissociative field fragmentation, and 5-MeO-DMT induces rapid field boundary dissolution. These specific molecular interactions, through receptor modulation, tune field computation, offering novel insights into ego dissolution, creativity, and therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Electromagnetic field theories of consciousness propose that consciousness emerges from resonant electromagnetic field interactions rather than pur...
Psychedelics and Health Behavior Change - Journal of Psychopharmacology (in press)
OpenAlex – March 24, 2021
Summary
Imagine a powerful new psychological intervention for behavior change: psilocybin. This non-addictive psychedelic, with low toxicity, is showing promise in addressing anxiety and addictive behavior by disrupting rigid patterns. Integrating psilocybin with established methods like Motivational Interviewing offers a potent approach for health psychology and public health. Psychotherapists in clinical psychology and psychiatry envision its use to improve diet, exercise, and mindfulness, enhancing cognition and well-being. This innovative strategy, emerging from Psychedelics and Drug Studies, could profoundly impact lifestyle disease prevention.
Abstract
Healthful behaviors such as maintaining a balanced diet, being physically active, and refraining from smoking have major impacts on the risk of dev...
Ginastera au bout de l'archet
OpenAlex – February 18, 2009
Summary
Psilocybin and MDMA profoundly reshape social decision-making, significantly reducing the rejection of unfair offers. In studies with 19 participants for psilocybin and 20 for MDMA, both compounds halved the odds of rejecting unfair proposals (odds ratios: 0.57 and 0.42). MDMA also boosted prosocial offers to others (Cohen's d = 0.82). These insights offer a new lens for the Humanities and Cultural Analysis, revealing how substances alter our social reward systems. This deepens our understanding of human connection, akin to empathy explored in Literature, the structure of Musicology and Musical Analysis, or the emotional depth of Art and Piano performance.
Abstract
Disruptions in social decision-making are becoming evident in many psychiatric conditions. These are studied using paradigms investigating the psyc...
Dynamic coupling of whole-brain neuronal and neurotransmitter systems
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences – April 13, 2020
Summary
A groundbreaking Neuroscience study reveals how Psilocybin fundamentally alters brain function. Using advanced functional neuroimaging, the research explains how this psychedelic compound specifically stimulates serotonergic neurotransmitter receptors (5-HT2A R) in healthy humans, influencing complex neurotransmitter systems. This work, crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies and Mental Health Research Topics, offers deep understanding of neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. It illuminates why psilocybin shows promise for treating severe conditions like Addiction and Anxiety, potentially guiding future Psychology approaches beyond deep brain stimulation.
Abstract
Significance In a technical tour de force, we have created a framework demonstrating the underlying fundamental principles of bidirectional couplin...
Therapeutic use of classic psychedelics to treat cancer-related psychiatric distress
International Review of Psychiatry – July 04, 2018
Summary
Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, shows remarkable potential in psychiatry, offering rapid and sustained relief from cancer-related distress. A review of 10 clinical trials, involving 445 participants mostly with advanced cancer, highlights this. Early open-label studies (341 participants) suggested improvements in depression and anxiety. More recent clinical trials (104 participants, primarily with psilocybin) confirm these benefits, demonstrating its promise as a medicine to alleviate profound psychological distress in cancer patients. This alkaloid's impact on neurotransmitter receptors is a key area for clinical psychology and drug studies.
Abstract
Cancer is highly prevalent and one of the leading causes of global morbidity and mortality. Psychological and existential suffering is common in ca...
An Overview on the Taxonomy, Phylogenetics and Ecology of the Psychedelic Genera Psilocybe, Panaeolus, Pluteus and Gymnopilus
Frontiers in Forests and Global Change – May 23, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen from "magic mushrooms," offers significant therapeutic promise for mental health without addiction risks. Amidst surging interest in psychedelics and drug studies, accurate identification is paramount. This review details the fungal biology, taxonomy, and classification of four key genera—Psilocybe, Panaeolus, Pluteus, and Gymnopilus—known for producing these alkaloids. Understanding their ecology and the chemical synthesis of psilocybin is crucial for safe applications, distinguishing beneficial fungi from harmful lookalikes.
Abstract
Psilocybin and psilocin, two psychoactive components found in “magic mushrooms,” have therapeutic potential in a number of mental health disorders ...
American Trip
The MIT Press eBooks – July 14, 2020
Summary
The nature of psychedelics like Psilocybin in midcentury America was profoundly shaped by historical and social forces. From CIA LSD experiments to the Harvard Psilocybin Project, the user's mindset and surrounding environment—the "set and setting"—determined whether they were seen as therapeutic medicines or dangerous drugs. This era's unique context, encompassing the counterculture, politics, and psychology, influenced perceptions. Figures like Timothy Leary illustrate how collective suggestion, incorporating aesthetics and religious studies, created a distinct "American trip," revealing the deep sociological and psychological interplay defining psychedelic experiences.
Abstract
How historical, social, and cultural forces shaped the psychedelic experience in midcentury America, from CIA LSD experiments the Harvard Psilocybi...
From psychiatry to neurology: Psychedelics as prospective therapeutics for neurodegenerative disorders
Journal of Neurochemistry – September 14, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, is revolutionizing psychiatry, uniquely improving major depressive disorder (MDD) symptoms long-term after a single treatment. This breakthrough in medicine led the FDA to grant "Breakthrough Therapy" status to two Phase III clinical trials for psilocybin. Beyond treating psychological disease, emerging neuroscience and drug studies suggest psychedelics may also treat brain injury and neurodegenerative conditions. These compounds foster neuroplasticity, offering new avenues for neurology and understanding neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Abstract The studies of psychedelics, especially psychedelic tryptamines like psilocybin, are rapidly gaining interest in neuroscience research. Mu...
Rethinking Therapeutic Strategies for Anorexia Nervosa: Insights From Psychedelic Medicine and Animal Models
Frontiers in Neuroscience – February 04, 2020
Summary
Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disease, with current treatments largely ineffective. Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers new hope. This psychedelic medicine shows promise for addressing cognitive inflexibility and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior in AN. The first clinical trial for Anorexia nervosa using psilocybin commenced in 2019. To advance clinical psychology and medicine, animal models are crucial. They elucidate neurobiological drivers via biochemical analysis, bypassing human expectancy theory biases, informing psychiatry and drug studies.
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disease, yet available pharmacological treatments are largely ineffective d...
14C-Psilocin tissue distribution in pregnant rats after intravenous administration
Functional Foods in Health and Disease – July 27, 2014
Summary
Psilocybin's active component, psilocin, readily crosses the placental barrier, lingering in fetal tissues. Pharmacology investigations with 15 pregnant rats demonstrated higher maternal tissue concentrations, yet fetal elimination was slow (half-life exceeding 13 hours). Urine analysis from 6 male rats, employing chromatography, revealed a new psilocin metabolite, detailing its chemistry. This work, part of broader psychedelics and drug studies, underscores the risks of this hallucinogen. Considering psilocybin's alkaloid nature and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, avoiding magic mushrooms during pregnancy is crucial.
Abstract
Background: Many species of hallucinogenic mushrooms have been found in the genus Psilocybe. The main psychoactive chemicals of Psilocybe mushrooms...
Adolescent drug use in Wales
British Journal of Addiction – February 01, 1992
Summary
A significant finding for Pediatrics and Child and Adolescent Psychosocial and Emotional Development reveals just over a fifth of 2239 Welsh 15-16 year olds reported trying drugs. A tenth used drugs within the past month. Marijuana, solvents, and psilocybin were most common. While few engaged in multiple or regular drug use, boys reported using psilocybin more often than girls. These insights are crucial for Psychology, Psychiatry, and Medicine, informing Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes, and highlight the need for targeted interventions, perhaps even Digital Mental Health Interventions, to support youth.
Abstract
Abstract As part of a larger survey of health‐related behaviours, 2239 15–16‐year‐olds in Wales provided information on their use of eight differen...
Psychedelic Integration: Psychotherapy for non-ordinary states of consciousness
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – November 16, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic research is exploding, indicating substances like MDMA and psilocybin may soon be mainstream for conditions like PTSD and depression. This shift in Psychology and Drug Studies necessitates trained psychotherapists to support profound non-ordinary states of consciousness. Psychologist and psychotherapist Marc B. Aixalà, with a decade of experience, exemplifies this expertise. Involved in early psilocybin trials, his work focuses on safely integrating psychedelic experiences, even when therapists weren't present for the initial journey. This evolving field demands professionals adept at guiding individuals through significant shifts in consciousness.
Abstract
Recent years have seen a global explosion in the field of psychedelic research, popularizing of use of non-ordinary states of consciousness to aid ...
Psychiatry’s next top model: cause for a re-think on drug models of psychosis and other psychiatric disorders
Journal of Psychopharmacology – June 19, 2013
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, emerged as the superior model for positive psychotic symptoms, challenging assumptions in psychiatry. A two-part analysis compared five drugs: cannabis, psilocybin, amphetamine, ketamine, and alcohol. No experiences were specific to negative or cognitive psychosis over depression. Acute alcohol and amphetamine models best represented mania, relevant to bipolar disorder. This work in clinical psychology and medicine suggests novel avenues for understanding conditions like schizophrenia, informing psychedelic drug studies and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Despite the widespread application of drug modelling in psychiatric research, the relative value of different models has never been formally compar...
Hallucinogenic/psychedelic 5HT2A receptor agonists as rapid antidepressant therapeutics: Evidence and mechanisms of action
Journal of Psychopharmacology – March 19, 2021
Summary
Almost a third of patients with major depressive disorder are non-responders to current antidepressants, a critical challenge in Psychiatry. Promisingly, fast-acting serotonergic hallucinogens like psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, and ayahuasca demonstrate antidepressant and anxiety-reducing effects. Modern medicine is exploring these psychedelics; five psilocybin trials and two ayahuasca trials confirm their efficacy. Their pharmacology involves influencing the 5-HT2A receptor, a key serotonin receptor. These drug studies highlight their profound neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, offering new therapeutic avenues beyond traditional serotonin antagonists in Psychology.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is among the most prevalent mental health disorders worldwide, and it is associated with a reduced quality of life ...
Associations between classic psychedelics and nicotine dependence in a nationally representative sample
Scientific Reports – June 22, 2022
Summary
Lifetime psilocybin use is linked to reduced odds of nicotine dependence. A large psychology study of 214,505 adults found psilocybin use was associated with 7-13% lower odds of current nicotine dependence. Mescaline and peyote also showed 9-21% reduced odds of specific nicotine dependence measures. However, LSD use was associated with 17-24% *increased* odds. This logistic regression analysis suggests certain hallucinogen psychedelics might offer new avenues in medicine and psychiatry for addiction and smoking cessation, influencing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. This field of drug studies explores novel approaches to addiction.
Abstract
Abstract Tobacco use is the single largest cause of preventable death worldwide, but none of the established treatments aimed at smoking cessation ...
The constituents of Gymnopilus spectabilis.
Chemical and Pharmaceutical Bulletin – January 01, 1986
Summary
Surprisingly, the hallucinogenic mushroom *Gymnopilus spectabilis* yielded no psilocybin in analyzed collections, despite its reputation. Instead, detailed chemistry revealed cerevisterol, ergosterol, and ergosteryl peroxide. A new acetylenic compound, 4, 6-decadiyne-1, 3, 8-triol, was also characterized, highlighting complex fungal biology. While other Japanese mushrooms contain psilocybin, this finding challenges assumptions about the mushroom's psychedelic properties. Understanding the stereochemistry of these compounds contributes to drug studies and potential chemical synthesis, expanding knowledge beyond traditional medicine's focus on known alkaloids.
Abstract
Cerevisterol (1) and a new acetylenic compound, 4, 6-decadiyne-1, 3, 8-triol (2) were isolated and characterized from a hallucinogenic mushroom, Gy...
Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of 5-Methylpsilocybin: A Tryptamine with Potential Psychedelic Activity
Journal of Natural Products – March 05, 2021
Summary
A novel psilocybin analogue, 5-methylpsilocybin, exhibits potent biological activity. Its chemical synthesis involved a unique *in vitro* enzymatic phosphorylation of a tryptamine derivative, 5-methylpsilocin, utilizing a *Psilocybe cubensis* kinase. Biochemical analysis ensured high purity of this new hallucinogen. In drug studies, it showed psychedelic-like effects in mice, proving more potent than dimethyltryptamine but less potent than psilocybin. This innovative chemistry expands the realm of synthetic alkaloids.
Abstract
A novel analogue of psilocybin was produced by hybrid chemoenzymatic synthesis in sufficient quantity to enable bioassay. Utilizing purified 4-hydr...
Phylogenetic and chemical studies in the potential psychotropic species complex of Psilocybe atrobrunnea with taxonomic and nomenclatural notes
Persoonia - Molecular Phylogeny and Evolution of Fungi – November 26, 2014
Summary
Psilocybin and psilocin, potent psychedelic alkaloids, were detected for the first time in the fungus *Psilocybe medullosa*. Investigating five *Psilocybe* species using four molecular markers, phylogenetic analysis reclassified *P. laetissima* into the *Leratiomyces* genus. Intriguingly, *P. atrobrunnea* showed no psilocybin or psilocin, even with tryptamine-rich media, suggesting a lost biosynthesis pathway for these psychedelics. This advances understanding of fungal biology, chemical synthesis of alkaloids, and plant and fungal interactions within the genus.
Abstract
Five Psilocybe species with unresolved systematic position ( P. atrobrunnea , P. laetissima , P. medul- losa , P. pelliculosa , and P. silvatica ) ...