Research
Esse quam Videre: Critical Reflections on the Use of Psilocybin as an Adjuvant in Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy
Polymatheia. – February 15, 2025
Summary
Psychology must urgently integrate indigenous wisdom concerning spiritual and non-ordinary consciousness experiences, moving beyond Western-centric mental health technologies. This approach advocates for decolonial perspectives in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies, involving the psychotherapist in reconnecting individuals with nature. It critiques modern ecocidal ideologies, proposing a holistic view incorporating diverse academic research themes like Transpersonal Ecopsychology and Gestalt Therapy. Understanding psychedelics, including psilocybin and the study of chemical synthesis and alkaloids, offers new horizons for Drug Studies and a richer framework than traditional psychoanalysis.
Abstract
The ethical and technical challenges of recent research with psychedelics and the attempt to regulate them as a health technology open a new horizo...
Neurochemical and Neurophysiological Effects of Intravenous Administration of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine in Rats.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology – February 15, 2025
Summary
DMT, a naturally occurring compound in the brain, operates at levels similar to crucial neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. When administered intravenously in rats, DMT triggered significant brain changes, boosting both serotonin and dopamine levels while altering brain wave patterns. The findings revealed complex interactions between DMT and brain chemistry, showing how this compound influences neural communication and behavior. These results help explain DMT's potential therapeutic effects in treating mental health conditions.
Abstract
N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a serotonergic psychedelic that is being investigated clinically for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Althou...
The Social Context of Consciousness: An Integrative Framework for Neuroscience, Psychology, and Law.
Integrative psychological & behavioral science – February 14, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
This article discusses social context of consciousness, the role of the brain and the psychological processes of their actions in the context of th...
Setting the Stage for the Inner Journey: Unraveling the Interplay of Contextual Factors and the Intensity of Psychedelic-Induced Ego Dissolution.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – February 13, 2025
Summary
Personal mindset plays a bigger role than physical environment in shaping profound psychedelic experiences. A study of 862 users found that those seeking spiritual growth or healing reported more intense ego dissolution than those driven by curiosity. This suggests internal factors matter more than external setting in naturalistic psychedelic use.
Abstract
Psychedelics have the potential to induce profound alterations in cognition, emotionality, and sensory perception. The quality and intensity of the...
Sex Differences in Religious Beliefs Before and After an Entity Encounter During an Ayahuasca Experience.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – February 13, 2025
Summary
Men and women show fascinating differences in how ayahuasca encounters transform their religious beliefs. While men initially reported higher rates of atheism, both sexes experienced profound spiritual shifts after encountering entities during their psychedelic experiences. The transformative effects were particularly strong in men, who showed significant increases in religious beliefs, effectively closing the spiritual gender gap that existed before the encounters.
Abstract
An interesting aspect of entity encounters during psychedelic experiences is their ability to transform one's religious beliefs. However, little is...
Development of Psilocybe Mushroom Species Reference Material—Cultivation Parameters and Chemical Profiles
Journal of AOAC International – February 13, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin content in cultivated mushrooms varies dramatically, with *P. zapotecorum* showing 1.89% and *P. stuntzii* just 0.45%. This Fungal Biology effort successfully cultivated six Psilocybe species indoors from mycelium, a significant step for Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Using methods akin to Food science, the project chemically profiled these alkaloids, identifying psilocybin, psilocin, and others. Interestingly, storing fresh mushrooms at -20°C before freeze-drying drastically reduced psilocybin. This work advances our understanding of Psilocybin biology and potential applications.
Abstract
Abstract Background Psilocybin-containing mushrooms are gaining the attention of the scientific community due to the potential benefits offered by ...
Cultural Humility and Psychedelics: A Framework Analysis of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Manuals and Practice Guidelines
CrossRef – February 13, 2025
Summary
Cultural biases in healthcare lead to unequal care. An analysis of psychedelic therapy manuals, compared against established multicultural guidelines, revealed a critical gap: no manual adequately instructs therapists on delivering culturally responsive care. Bridging this gap by integrating cultural humility into training is vital for ensuring these promising new therapies benefit all individuals equitably.
Abstract
Abstract Background Cultural biases within healthcare systems result in inequitable treatment, harms, and mistrust—particularly for individuals wit...
Prevalence and factors of meditation and yoga practice in the USA: How cancer and anxiety correlate.
Supportive care in cancer : official journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer – February 13, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Research has shown that mind-body practices like meditation and yoga can improve quality of life among female cancer survivors. Yet, correlates of ...
Tags
Representaciones sociales de la salud mental en consumidores de Ayahuasca
OpenAlex – February 13, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca has emerged as a promising tool for mental health treatment, showing significant potential in clinical psychology. A qualitative study involving eight participants who used Ayahuasca for non-recreational purposes revealed transformative effects on their understanding of mental health. Participants reported enhanced self-awareness, a clearer sense of purpose, and relief from psychological issues. This holistic approach integrates physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being, suggesting practical implications for both patients and clinical psychologists in addressing modern mental health challenges.
Abstract
El uso de Ayahuasca para tratar la salud mental ha cobrado importancia en las últimas décadas, con base en las nuevas necesidades que se presentan ...
[Anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder : current situation and future prospects].
Revue medicale suisse – February 12, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Eating is essential to the survival of any living organism. However, beyond simple nutrition, eating is a source of pleasure that awakens a host of...
Can psychedelic use benefit meditation practice? Examining individual, psychedelic, and meditation-related factors.
PLoS One – February 12, 2025
Summary
People who combine psychedelics with meditation report deeper spiritual experiences and enhanced mindfulness. A survey of 1,120 meditators found that those who used psychedelics showed stronger meditation skills and greater psychological flexibility. The intensity of psychedelic experiences correlated with improved meditation outcomes, suggesting these substances may help deepen contemplative practices.
Abstract
Can psychedelic use benefit meditation practice? Examining individual, psychedelic, and meditation-related factors.
Is ketamine efficacious for rapid treatment of acute suicidal ideation in an emergency setting? Lessons learned from a pilot randomized controlled trial.
BMC research notes – February 12, 2025
Summary
In the urgent battle against suicide, ketamine - a powerful N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist - shows promise for rapid relief. When compared to midazolam in emergency settings, both medications significantly reduced suicidal thoughts within 24 hours. While patients with severe depressive disorder saw improvement with either treatment, ketamine's established safety profile makes it a valuable option for crisis intervention.
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a single infusion of ketamine in inducing rapid remission of severe suicidal ideation, compared to Mid...
Akzeptanz psilocybin-assistierter Therapie in den deutschsprachigen Ländern
edoc Publication server (Humboldt University of Berlin) – February 12, 2025
Summary
Optimism for psilocybin-assisted therapy is high, especially among informed individuals. A survey of 1456 participants, including medical professionals and patients, revealed greater knowledge and personal psychedelic experience predicted significantly more positive attitudes toward its implementation (explaining 39% of variance). Acceptance for this innovative Medicine, relevant to Pain Management and broader well-being, increased when information about therapeutic potentials was balanced with risks. This highlights the importance of informed public discourse, crucial for integrating advances from Psychedelics and Drug Studies and shaping sound policy.
Abstract
Hintergrund: Klinische Studien mit Psilocybin in Kombination mit Psychotherapie zeigen vielversprechende Ergebnisse bei der Behandlung verschiedene...
[Acceptance of psilocybin-assisted therapy in German-speaking countries].
Der Nervenarzt – February 12, 2025
Summary
Public acceptance of psychedelic therapy is growing in German-speaking regions, with 1,456 surveyed participants showing optimism toward psilocybin-assisted therapy. Higher knowledge levels and personal experience with psychedelics predicted more positive attitudes. Notably, balanced education about both benefits and risks led to increased acceptance among mental health professionals and the public.
Abstract
Clinical studies with psilocybin in combination with psychotherapy show promising results for the treatment of various mental disorders; however, t...
Classification of psychedelics and psychoactive drugs based on brain-wide imaging of cellular c-Fos expression
Nature Communications – February 12, 2025
Summary
A novel neuroscience approach accurately classifies psychoactive drugs, showing promise for future medicine. Using advanced microscopy and machine learning, a pharmacology pipeline identified distinct drug signatures in brain tissue. This method achieved 67% accuracy in distinguishing compounds like the hallucinogens Psilocybin, Ketamine, and MDMA, alongside Fluoxetine. Psilocybin was discriminated from other drugs with over 95% accuracy. Such precise drug studies advance our understanding of neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, critical for developing new treatments for brain disorders.
Abstract
Psilocybin, ketamine, and MDMA are psychoactive compounds that exert behavioral effects with distinguishable but also overlapping features. The gro...
Correction. Ketamine vs Electroconvulsive Therapy in the Management of Treatment-Resistant Depression: Do We Need More Data?
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – February 11, 2025
Summary
Both ketamine and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) show promise for severe depression that doesn't respond to standard treatments. While ECT remains the gold standard, ketamine offers a less invasive option with rapid results. Recent findings suggest comparable effectiveness between the two, though each has distinct advantages: ECT may be more durable, while ketamine can provide quick relief with fewer side effects.
Abstract
This corrects the article DOI: 10.4088/JCP.24br15655.
On Minimizing Risk and Harm in the Use of Psychedelics.
Psychiatr Res Clin Pract – February 11, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic therapy shows remarkable promise, but safety remains paramount. Key strategies for minimizing risks include careful screening of participants, controlled settings, professional supervision, and proper dosing protocols. Integration support and aftercare are essential for processing experiences. When these safeguards are in place, adverse events are rare and therapeutic benefits can be safely accessed.
Abstract
On Minimizing Risk and Harm in the Use of Psychedelics.
Efficacy of intranasal dexmedetomidine-esketamine sedation for pediatric acceptance of facemask: single-center, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial.
BMC anesthesiology – February 11, 2025
Summary
Helping anxious children stay calm before surgery is crucial for both medical staff and parents. A breakthrough combination of dexmedetomidine and esketamine, delivered as nasal drops, proved highly effective at helping young patients accept face masks before operations. This approach was 87% successful, compared to 62% with dexmedetomidine alone. The combined treatment worked especially well for highly anxious children, with no additional side effects.
Abstract
We compare the efficacy of intranasal dexmedetomidine (DEX) and DEX-esketamine sedation on pediatric acceptance of face mask. This single-center do...
Photothermal Desorption and Reagent-Assisted Low-Temperature Plasma Ionization Miniature IT-MS/MS for On-Site Analysis of Illicit Drugs in Saliva and Urine.
Analytical chemistry – February 11, 2025
Summary
A new portable device brings lab-grade drug testing to roadside checks, detecting illegal substances in saliva within seconds. This breakthrough combines heat-based extraction with specialized ionization techniques to identify drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine at extremely low concentrations. The method matches accuracy of large lab equipment while being fast enough for real-world police use.
Abstract
Globally, drug-impaired driving fatalities now exceed those from drunk driving, urging the need for on-site and roadside detection methods. In this...
Psychedelics and chronic pain: self-reported outcomes on changed substance use patterns and health following naturalistic psychedelic use
British Journal of Pain – February 11, 2025
Summary
Among 466 adults with chronic pain, 86.3% reported decreasing or ceasing non-psychedelic substance use after self-treating with psychedelics. This included significant reductions in alcohol (71.1%) and prescription opioids (64.1%). While some increased illicit opioids or cannabis, 21.2% maintained reduced substance use for over 26 weeks. These findings in Psychiatry and Drug Studies suggest psychedelics offer novel potential in Medicine for chronic pain and substance use, necessitating rigorous Biochemical Analysis and Forensic Toxicology with advanced sensing techniques.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances have shown preliminary efficacy for several neuropsychiatric disorders and are currently being investigated for chronic pain...
Intracranial substrates of meditation-induced neuromodulation in the amygdala and hippocampus.
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America – February 11, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Meditation is an accessible mental practice associated with emotional regulation and well-being. Loving-kindness meditation (LKM), a specific subty...
Protocol of an open-label safety and feasibility pilot study of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for methamphetamine use disorder (the KAPPA trial).
BMJ open – February 10, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, traditionally used as an anesthetic, may offer new hope for methamphetamine addiction treatment. This innovative drug therapy combines controlled ketamine doses with cognitive behavioral therapy to address substance misuse. The pilot program evaluates safety and feasibility by treating 20 adults over 4 weeks, providing weekly ketamine doses alongside psychosocial intervention sessions. Initial data suggests this combined approach could improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.
Abstract
Methamphetamine use disorder is a significant public health concern. No pharmacological treatment options currently exist for methamphetamine use d...
Psychedelics and Pro-Social Behaviors: A Perspective on Autism Spectrum Disorders
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science – February 10, 2025
Summary
Autism Spectrum Disorders affect millions globally, presenting significant challenges in social interaction. A compelling perspective in cognitive psychology explores how psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA may positively influence pro-social behaviors. This viewpoint examines their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, suggesting novel drug studies. Understanding these mechanisms, alongside insights from nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, could offer new psychological approaches for individuals with ASD.
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication, and repet...
Ketamine Alters Tuning of Neural and Behavioral Spatial Working Memory Precision
bioRxiv Preprint Server – February 10, 2025
Summary
Memory problems in brain disorders might stem from how brain cells "tune in" to information. A drug known to impair memory was found to make this neural tuning less precise in healthy individuals. Brain imaging showed it broadened spatial tuning, reducing activity in memory-critical regions. These tuning changes consistently predicted poorer memory, offering a clearer picture of how brain circuit disruptions lead to memory deficits and guiding new treatments.
Abstract
Deficits in working memory (WM) are a hallmark of neuropsy-chiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, yet their neurobiological basis remains poorly...
Digital twin brain simulator for real-time consciousness monitoring and virtual intervention using primate electrocorticogram data.
NPJ digital medicine – February 10, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
At the forefront of bridging computational brain modeling with personalized medicine, this study introduces a novel, real-time, electrocorticogram ...
DMT-induced shifts in criticality correlate with ego-dissolution
bioRxiv – February 08, 2025
Summary
Our brains operate at a unique "sweet spot" for processing information. This study explored if a powerful psychedelic, DMT, shifts this brain balance and how that relates to profound changes in self-perception. Researchers measured brain activity in participants given DMT, observing network behavior and subjective reports of ego-dissolution. Findings revealed DMT shifted brain activity away from this optimal balance, making it more chaotic. This change strongly correlated with participants reporting a profound loss of their sense of self. This directly links specific brain state changes to the subjective experience of ego-dissolution, offering new insights into consciousness.
Abstract
DMT-induced shifts in criticality correlate with ego-dissolution
Psilocybin alters visual contextual computations
OpenAlex – February 08, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, fundamentally alters visual perception by reshaping how the brain processes context. Insights from cognitive psychology and neuroscience reveal it significantly changes how we perceive illusions, like the Ebbinghaus. Through advanced functional MRI and a sophisticated computational model from computer science, it's shown psilocybin influences neurotransmitter receptor activity, altering contextual brain responses. This work in psychology and psychedelics and drug studies suggests a core mechanism for how this drug impacts perception, offering new understanding of altered states, including those sometimes interpreted as paranormal experiences.
Abstract
Psilocybin alters perception and brain dynamics. Contextual computations are ubiquitous in the brain. Here, we investigate the effects of psilocybi...
Dissociable effects of LSD and MDMA on striato-cortical connectivity in healthy subjects
bioRxiv – February 08, 2025
Summary
Our brains respond uniquely to different psychedelic compounds. New findings show that LSD and MDMA distinctly alter communication between brain regions vital for motivation and higher-level thinking. Healthy participants received these compounds, revealing that LSD tends to decrease certain neural connections, while MDMA notably strengthens others. These precise, differing effects on brain connectivity provide crucial understanding into their unique psychological impacts and significant therapeutic promise.
Abstract
Dissociable effects of LSD and MDMA on striato-cortical connectivity in healthy subjects
Comparison of anesthetic effects of xylazine combined with alfaxalone or ketamine and maintained with isoflurane in captive Formosan Reeve's Muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi micrurus).
Irish veterinary journal – February 08, 2025
Summary
Veterinarians have discovered a safer way to anesthetize Formosan Reeve's muntjac, a rare deer species from Southeast Asia. When comparing two anesthetic combinations, alfaxalone with xylazine proved gentler than traditional ketamine with xylazine. The newer method resulted in faster recovery times and better oxygen levels, while maintaining stable heart rates - crucial findings for wildlife veterinarians working with these sensitive animals.
Abstract
Formosan Reeve's muntjac is a Cervidae species endemic to Southeast China and Taiwan. However, research on different anesthetic protocols, their ef...
Relative Reality
arXiv Preprint Archive – February 08, 2025
Summary
Our perception of reality may be more relative than absolute - this groundbreaking analysis bridges quantum mechanics and consciousness studies. By examining how awareness and physical processes intersect, researchers demonstrated that conscious experiences (qualia) operate outside traditional physical frameworks, similar to how non-Euclidean geometry transcends classical space. The work connects quantum physics principles with cognitive science, offering a mathematical model that elegantly explains both consciousness and quantum phenomena like the Schrödinger equation.
Abstract
The ``Hard Problem" of consciousness refers to a long-standing enigma about how qualia emerge from physical processes in the brain. Building on ins...
A qualitative analysis of the psychedelic mushroom come-up and come-down.
Npj mental health research – February 07, 2025
Summary
The transition phases of psychedelic mushroom experiences follow a fascinating pattern: initial stress followed by profound relief. Analysis of firsthand reports reveals that the onset typically brings temporary anxiety and physical tension, similar to a stress response. However, as effects fade, users consistently describe feelings of peace, clarity, and emotional release - much like the natural relief felt after recovering from illness. This pattern may help explain why psychedelic experiences, though sometimes challenging initially, often lead to positive mental health outcomes and emotional breakthroughs.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy has the potential to become a revolutionary and transdiagnostic mental health treatment, yielding enduring benefits that are of...
Shame, Guilt and Psychedelic Experience: Results from a Prospective, Longitudinal Survey of Real-World Psilocybin Use
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – February 07, 2025
Summary
A significant 68.2% of 679 adults reported acute shame or guilt during psilocybin experiences, a potent hallucinogen. While challenging, working through these feelings predicted better psychological wellbeing weeks later. This finding, relevant to clinical psychology and psychiatry, reveals how psilocybin can impact shame, a core emotion in psychology. Overall, the alkaloid produced a small decrease in trait shame (Cohen's dz = 0.37) maintained for months, though shame increased for 29.8%. These insights from psychedelics and drug studies highlight complex psychological responses.
Abstract
The classic psychedelic psilocybin has attracted special interest across clinical and non-clinical settings as a potential tool for mental health. ...
Psychedelic Information Theory
Proceedings of the Annual Conference of CAIS / Actes du congrès annuel de l ACSI – February 07, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic experiences fundamentally transform how we process information. A novel exploration delves into information phenomena occurring during altered states of consciousness induced by "magic mushrooms." Drawing from Psychedelic Information Theory, this interdisciplinary inquiry systematically examines "psychedelic information" across four distinct levels: personal, microsocial, macrosocial, and the overarching "meta" perspective of Information Science. This approach bridges insights from Psychology, Computer Science, and Drug Studies, offering a profound understanding of how consciousness shapes our informational landscape.
Abstract
Inspired by the conference theme, Leaps and Stumbles, our panel takes a quantum leap beyond conventional notions of information. We provide a syste...
Emerging Medications for Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Review with Perspective on Mechanisms and Challenges
Brain Sciences – February 06, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, have seen the greatest surge in development for treatment-resistant depression over the past five years, offering a new perspective in psychology and psychiatry. Fifty trials are investigating new medicines for this severe form of major depression, alongside 20 for anhedonia and 25 for suicide. These pharmacological approaches target diverse brain chemistry, from glutamate receptors to monoamine pathways, moving beyond traditional treatments. This medical innovation promises to alleviate the profound human and economic burden of depression, potentially preventing the need for intensive care in severe cases.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Non-response to initial treatment options for major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common clinical challenge with profound d...
Plant-derived compounds and neurodegenerative diseases: Different mechanisms of action with therapeutic potential.
Neuroscience – February 06, 2025
Summary
Nature's compounds offer promising solutions for brain health. Three plant-derived substances - Quercetin (found in fruits), Cannabidiol (from cannabis), and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (from various plants) - show remarkable potential in fighting neurodegenerative diseases. Each works uniquely: Quercetin as an antioxidant, Cannabidiol reduces inflammation, and DMT promotes brain plasticity. Together, they represent a powerful arsenal against neurological decline.
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are a group of disorders characterized by progressive degeneration of discrete groups of neurons causing severe disabili...
Psychedelics for Moral Bioenhancement in Healthy Individuals—A Violation of the Non-Maleficence Principle?
Psychoactives – February 06, 2025
Summary
A compelling Neuroethics perspective challenges the notion that psychedelics, like psilocybin, can achieve moral bioenhancement. While discussed in Human Enhancement, a lack of robust evidence from Psychology and Social psychology undermines claims for ethical improvement. Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveal risks like hallucinogenic properties and psychosis. Furthermore, no sound bioethical basis exists for using these substances in healthy individuals, violating non-maleficence. Without unequivocal demonstration or non-hallucinogenic Biomedical Innovations, current proposals for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies remain untenable, lacking the necessary justification.
Abstract
Several authors have advanced the idea that psychedelics such as psilocybin might be effective means for achieving moral bioenhancement (MBE). Here...
Efficacy and safety of ketamine and esketamine in reducing the incidence of postpartum depression: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis.
BMC pregnancy and childbirth – February 06, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough treatments show promise for new mothers: Both ketamine and esketamine significantly reduce postpartum depression (PPD) risk in the weeks following childbirth. While ketamine helps short-term, esketamine proves effective for both immediate and long-term PPD prevention. Lower doses work just as well as higher ones, with only temporary side effects like dizziness.
Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) is categorized by the Disorders-Fifth Edition as depression that begins during pregnancy or within the first month afte...
Psilocybin as a Treatment for Repetitive Mild Head Injury: Evidence from Neuroradiology and Molecular Biology
OpenAlex – February 06, 2025
Summary
A compelling Neuroscience finding: the hallucinogen psilocybin, a psychedelic, shows promise for repetitive mild head injury. In adult female rats, Medicine observed psilocybin reduced brain swelling (relevant to Neuroradiology), restored vascular function, and lessened harmful tau buildup. Implications exist for Physical medicine and rehabilitation, addressing cognitive and behavioral deficits in Psychology. Psilocybin's neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior is vital for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, informing broader receptor research like Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors Study.
Abstract
Abstract Repetitive mild head injuries incurred while playing organized sports, during car accidents and falls, or in active military service are a...
Differential effects of statins on the anti-dyskinetic activity of sub-anesthetic ketamine.
Neuroscience letters – February 06, 2025
Summary
Low-dose ketamine shows promise in treating involuntary movements in Parkinson's disease, but common cholesterol medications may interfere. Research reveals that while ketamine helps reduce abnormal movements, certain statins can block its benefits. Notably, pravastatin disrupts ketamine's therapeutic effects, while lovastatin doesn't. This finding has important implications for Parkinson's patients taking both medications.
Abstract
Sub-anesthetic ketamine has been demonstrated to reduce abnormal involuntary movements (AIMs) in preclinical models of L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia (L...
The Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelics in Treating Substance Use Disorders: A Review of Clinical Trials
Medicina – February 06, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy shows remarkable promise for substance use disorders. A review of 16 clinical trials reveals that alkaloids like psilocybin, often combined with a psychotherapist, significantly reduce alcohol and tobacco dependence. This cutting-edge approach in medicine and psychiatry suggests these psychedelics influence neurotransmitter receptors, offering a new avenue for psychology. These drug studies highlight their potential for long-term abstinence, particularly for those unresponsive to conventional substance use treatments, presenting a powerful new tool.
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Substance use disorders (SUDs) affect millions worldwide. Despite increasing drug use, treatment options remain limited....
Psychedelics assisting therapy, or therapy assisting psychedelics? The importance of psychotherapy in psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Front Psychol – February 05, 2025
Summary
While psychedelics show promise in mental health treatment, their effectiveness largely depends on the therapeutic context. Quality psychotherapy before, during, and after psychedelic sessions is crucial for positive outcomes. The combination of skilled therapy and carefully administered psychedelics creates a synergistic effect, helping patients process deep emotional experiences and achieve lasting psychological benefits.
Abstract
Psychedelics assisting therapy, or therapy assisting psychedelics? The importance of psychotherapy in psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Sleep-administered ketamine/psychedelics: A streamlined strategy to address two challenges in research on ketamine and psychedelics.
European psychiatry : the journal of the Association of European Psychiatrists – February 05, 2025
Summary
Administering ketamine and psychedelics during sleep could revolutionize how we understand their antidepressant effects. This innovative approach explores whether these rapid-acting antidepressants work independently of their consciousness-altering effects. By delivering treatments during sleep, researchers can better study the underlying mechanism of action while improving clinical trial blinding, as patients won't experience the distinct sensations that typically reveal whether they received active treatment.
Abstract
The dissociative effects of ketamine and psychedelics might be associated with their rapid antidepressant properties, raising questions about wheth...
N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists for the prevention of chronic postsurgical pain: a narrative review.
Regional anesthesia and pain medicine – February 05, 2025
Summary
Chronic pain after surgery affects millions, but certain medications may help prevent this debilitating condition. Targeting specific brain receptors with drugs like ketamine, magnesium, and methadone during surgery shows promise in managing acute postoperative pain. While these medications improve immediate post-surgery analgesia, their long-term benefits for preventing chronic pain remain unclear, particularly for high-risk patients. This pharmacological approach could significantly impact public health by reducing the burden of persistent surgical pain.
Abstract
The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) has been linked to the development of chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP), defined as pain after surgery tha...
Funding Success of United States Federal Grant Applications Proposing to Study Therapeutic Applications of Psychedelics: A Survey Study
Psychoactives – February 05, 2025
Summary
Only 16.7% of 24 federal grant applications for therapeutic psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA received funding, significantly below the NIH's 23.4% average. A survey of 10 leading Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies researchers, identified using Library Science methods, revealed challenges in securing support. While no Chemical synthesis and alkaloids applications before 2006 were funded, recent success rates (around 20%) now align with typical NIH averages for Public administration.
Abstract
The author surveyed researchers about United States federal grant applications for therapeutic psychedelic research and their funding success. An a...
Psychological Support Approaches in Psychedelic Therapy: Results From a Survey of Psychedelic Practitioners.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – February 05, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic therapy practitioners show surprising diversity in their treatment approaches, with some focusing on emotional-spiritual support while others emphasize biological effects. A survey of 40 experienced practitioners, who collectively guided over 1,600 psychedelic sessions, revealed that trust-building, spirituality, emotional environment, and handling challenging experiences were key factors. Those trained at specialized institutes like MAPS favored more emotion-centered approaches to supporting patients through psychedelic experiences.
Abstract
Objective: To assess the viewpoints of psychedelic practitioners in research settings on approaches to psychological support for psychedelic treatm...
Dynamic functional connectivity signatures of focused attention on the breath in adolescents.
Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991) – February 05, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Breathing meditation typically consists of directing attention toward breathing and redirecting attention when the mind wanders. As yet, we do not ...
SUBJECTIVE EXPERIENCES OF AYAHUASCA NAIVE USERS
OpenAlex – February 05, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promise as a treatment for clinical disorders, with 80% of naïve users reporting positive psychological experiences. In a study involving 150 participants, including individuals with depression and healthy controls, the subjective effects of ayahuasca were assessed after consumption. Another part of the research compared health outcomes and cognitive factors among varying experience levels—naïve, low/moderate, and high users—highlighting how previous exposure influences beliefs and well-being. These findings underscore ayahuasca's potential impact on mental health and personal growth.
Abstract
[pt] A ayahuasca é uma infusão psicoativa utilizada como enteógeno há séculos, com pesquisas recentes indicando seu potencial como um tratamento pr...
Psilocybin mushroom stewardship: A qualitative inquiry into practices and priorities of “underground” psilocybin mushroom practitioners
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – February 05, 2025
Summary
Underground psilocybin mushroom practitioners emphasize a deep, personal relationship with the hallucinogen for safe use. Interviews with 17 facilitators (76.5% white, 64.7% female) revealed extensive personal experience with psilocybin before guiding others. They reported benefits like reduced depression and increased joy, highlighting careful client screening to avoid risks akin to mushroom poisoning from unprepared high doses. Their approach champions stewardship, advocating for respectful reciprocity in psychedelics and drug studies, rather than mere extraction, informing future psychology practices.
Abstract
Abstract Background and Aims Networks of so-called underground, or illegal, psilocybin mushroom practitioners are popularly known to exist, though ...
Efficacy and safety of S-ketamine in pain management for breast cancer patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Clinical & translational oncology : official publication of the Federation of Spanish Oncology Societies and of the National Cancer Institute of Mexico – February 05, 2025
Summary
S-ketamine offers promising pain relief for breast cancer patients during surgery. This analysis of multiple clinical trials found that patients who received S-ketamine during radical mastectomy experienced significantly less pain, as measured by VAS pain scores, compared to those who didn't. The benefits lasted up to 48 hours after surgery, with no major safety concerns reported.
Abstract
Breast cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women worldwide. According to the recent statistics by World Health Organiza...
Effect of Low-Dose Ketamine Infusion in the Intensive Care Unit on Postoperative Opioid Consumption and Traumatic Memories After Hospital Discharge: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Anesthesia and analgesia – February 05, 2025
Summary
Low-dose ketamine helped reduce post-surgery opioid use by 15% in intensive care patients, but came with an unexpected trade-off. Patients receiving ketamine reported more frightening memories of their hospital stay. In this trial of 118 surgical patients, those given ketamine needed significantly less fentanyl for pain control, particularly after abdominal surgery. However, follow-up interviews revealed these patients were more likely to recall disturbing memories of their ICU experience.
Abstract
Low-dose ketamine may have an opioid-sparing effect in critically ill patients but may also predispose them to traumatic memories. We evaluated the...
Hypnosis applications to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder.
The American journal of clinical hypnosis – February 05, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Current evidence-based therapies considered efficacious for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) include Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), Cognitive...
Investigating the complex cortical dynamics of an advanced concentrative absorption meditation called jhanas (ACAM-J): a geometric eigenmode analysis.
Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991) – February 05, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Advanced meditation has been associated with long- and short-term psychological changes such as bliss, profound insight, and transformation of well...
Quantitative evaluation of multiple treatment regimens for treatment-resistant depression.
The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology – February 04, 2025
Summary
New hope emerges for patients with treatment-resistant depression as advanced modeling reveals combination therapies reduce symptoms up to 6.5% more effectively than single medications. Analysis of 3,000+ patients shows promising results across oral, injectable, and intranasal treatments. Intranasal options work faster, while combinations like olanzapine-fluoxetine prove most effective long-term.
Abstract
This study aims to quantitatively evaluate the efficacy and safety of various treatment regimens for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) across or...
Robust Detection of Ecstasy-Like and Adulterants Through ASAP-MS and DD-SIMCA.
Drug testing and analysis – February 04, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough forensic technology enables rapid, accurate identification of ecstasy and dangerous adulterants in street drugs. Using advanced mass spectrometry (ASAP-MS) combined with statistical modeling, analysts can now detect MDMA and related compounds in seconds. This method proves 98% accurate in identifying substances, making it a game-changer for drug testing labs and law enforcement.
Abstract
Ecstasy is a complex and hazardous substance, and its identification is increasingly challenging. Conventional analytical methods have limitations ...
Towards an expanded neurocognitive account of ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects.
The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology – February 04, 2025
Summary
Ketamine's remarkable ability to lift severe depression within hours has revolutionized our understanding of mental health treatment. New research reveals this breakthrough antidepressant works by simultaneously targeting multiple brain systems - enhancing reward processing, improving body awareness, and shifting self-perception. This neurocognitive approach explains how ketamine helps break the cycle of negative thinking and emotional numbness common in depression.
Abstract
Ketamine is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist that has shown effectiveness as a rapidly acting treatment for depression. Although advance...
Integrating the ineffable: a social phenomenological analysis of the psychedelic experience
Library, Museums and Press - UDSpace (University of Delaware) – February 04, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic experiences are profoundly shaped by social frameworks, revealing how individuals integrate altered states into daily reality. Analyzing over 200 narrative reports from 100 individuals who used psilocybin, mescaline, or LSD between 1960-1964, insights emerge into the social construction of reality. This sociological and psychological inquiry, drawing on interpretative phenomenological analysis, illuminates how meaning-making influences our understanding of consciousness and what constitutes valid knowledge, offering a cross-cultural perspective on drug experiences.
Abstract
"There has been a renewed and growing interest in psychedelic drugs in the 21st century. Drawing on social-phenomenology, cognitive sociology, and ...
Intraoperative Esketamine and Postpartum Depression Among Women With Cesarean Delivery: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
JAMA network open – February 03, 2025
Summary
A single dose of esketamine during C-section surgery could cut postpartum depression risk nearly in half. In a groundbreaking Chinese trial, women who received esketamine during cesarean delivery showed significantly lower rates of postpartum depression (10.4%) compared to those who didn't (19.5%). The medication was safely administered during surgery and showed promising results in protecting new mothers' mental health.
Abstract
Esketamine has been found to reduce the incidence of postpartum depression (PPD) in randomized clinical trials. However, current evidence from rand...
Hallucinogen-Persisting Perception Disorder in a 16-Year-Old Adolescent.
Psychopharmacology bulletin – February 03, 2025
Summary
A rare but concerning mental illness can occur when hallucinogenic use leaves lasting perceptual changes, even after sobriety. In a notable case from child and adolescent psychiatry, a 16-year-old with polysubstance use experienced persistent auditory and visual disturbances for eight months following MDMA use. Treatment with aripiprazole showed promising results, offering hope for young patients with hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder.
Abstract
Hallucinogen-persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) is a rare condition characterized by the re-experiencing of one or more perceptual symptoms that...
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for Parkinson's disease without depression: A case-report
Journal of Parkinson s Disease – February 02, 2025
Summary
A remarkable finding in clinical psychology reveals psilocybin’s potential for disease acceptance. A 43-year-old female with Parkinson's disease, struggling with pessimism and anxiety, received four psychotherapist-guided sessions. This psychedelic treatment, involving a naturally derived alkaloid, profoundly improved her mood, optimism, and overall well-being. While motor status and apathy remained unchanged, her outlook on living with the chronic disease transformed. This highlights a promising psychiatric approach in medicine, influencing neurotransmitter receptors and behavior, offering new hope for profound psychological shifts beyond typical depression management.
Abstract
Background Psychedelic assisted psychotherapy (PAP) can improve treatment-resistant depression. Its usefulness in Parkinson's disease (PD) is unkno...
Fluoxetine and Ketamine Enhance Extinction Memory and Brain Plasticity by Triggering the p75 Neurotrophin Receptor Proteolytic Pathway.
Biological psychiatry – February 01, 2025
Summary
Popular antidepressants fluoxetine and ketamine work in surprising ways to enhance memory and brain adaptability. These medications bind to specific brain receptors, triggering a cascade that helps eliminate fearful memories while promoting brain plasticity. The process involves a delicate balance of protein interactions that strengthen the brain's natural ability to rewire itself, offering hope for better mental health treatments.
Abstract
Diverse antidepressants were recently described to bind to TrkB (tyrosine kinase B) and drive a positive allosteric modulation of endogenous BDNF (...