Research
Opening the black box: Think Aloud as a method to study the spontaneous stream of consciousness.
Consciousness and cognition – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Asking participants to Think Aloud is a common method for studying conscious experience, but it remains unclear whether this approach alters though...
Effect of intravenous different drugs on the prevention of restlessness during recovery period of pediatric laparoscopic surgery: a randomized control trial.
Journal of anesthesia – February 01, 2025
Summary
Children recovering from laparoscopic surgery often experience post-operative restlessness, but new medications show promise in keeping them calm. Both dexmedetomidine and esketamine significantly reduced emergence agitation in young patients aged 1-7, with success rates over 88%. These medications helped children stay calmer during recovery without extending their hospital stay time, marking a significant advance in pediatric surgical care.
Abstract
To explored the impact of dexmedetomidine and esketamine in mitigating restlessness during the postoperative recovery phase following laparoscopic ...
Efficacy of esketamine nasal spray over quetiapine extended release over the short and long term: sensitivity analyses of ESCAPE-TRD, a randomised phase IIIb clinical trial.
The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science – February 01, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough findings show a promising nasal spray outperforms traditional medication for hard-to-treat depression. In a head-to-head comparison, esketamine nasal spray proved significantly more effective than quetiapine extended release for patients with treatment resistant depression. The spray not only helped more patients achieve remission within 8 weeks but also kept them depression-free longer during long-term treatment. Multiple sensitivity analyses confirmed these robust results.
Abstract
In patients with treatment resistant depression (TRD), the ESCAPE-TRD study showed esketamine nasal spray was superior to quetiapine extended relea...
5-HT1B receptor activation produces rapid antidepressant-like effects in rodents.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – February 01, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough research reveals a promising new pathway for treating depression through serotonin receptor activation. Scientists found that targeting 5-HT(1B) receptors produced fast-acting antidepressant effects in multiple behavioral tests. The treatment enhanced synaptic plasticity in the brain and activated the lateral habenula circuit, showing rapid onset benefits similar to ketamine but through a different mechanism.
Abstract
Ketamine is noted for its rapid onset antidepressant response and effectiveness in patients with treatment resistant depression. While most researc...
Illicit drug use among adolescents and young adults with impairments in the US: A cross-sectional analysis of the National Survey on Drug Use And Health.
Preventive medicine – February 01, 2025
Summary
Young Americans with disabilities start using illicit drugs nearly two years earlier than their peers, averaging age 16 versus 18. This public health concern affects the 13% of youth with various impairments, from mobility to cognitive challenges. Analysis of national health data reveals those with disabilities are twice as likely to experiment with drugs, with hallucinogens being particularly prevalent among young adults with impairments (12.8% versus 7.1% in those without).
Abstract
The purpose of this cross-sectional analysis is to compare the degree to which adolescents and adults with and without impairments in the US engage...
Evaluating the value and risks of psychedelics for psychiatric medicine: a clinical perspective.
Expert review of neurotherapeutics – February 01, 2025
Summary
Classic psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and DMT show remarkable promise in treating mental health conditions when used in controlled clinical settings. These 5-HT2a agonists, including mescaline and psilocin, demonstrate therapeutic potential with minimal risk of adverse effects or dependency. Research indicates these compounds could revolutionize psychiatric medicine by offering new treatment pathways for depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Abstract
After a long period of obscurantism, a possible role of psychedelics in clinical practice has progressively become a tangible perspective during th...
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Therapeutic Potential of MDMA- and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy for Adolescent Depression and Trauma.
Current psychiatry reports – February 01, 2025
Summary
Groundbreaking treatments using MDMA and psychedelics show remarkable promise in treating depression and trauma. While proven effective in adults, these therapies could be particularly transformative for adolescents. Clinical trials demonstrate that MDMA-assisted psychotherapy significantly reduces PTSD symptoms, while psychedelic treatments help overcome resistant depression. These approaches offer new hope for youth mental health.
Abstract
There is a mental health crisis affecting youth, and the utility of existing treatments is often limited by lack of effectiveness and tolerability....
Safety outcomes of ketamine for treatment-resistant depression in clinical settings and development of the ketamine side effect tool-revised (KSET-R).
Psychiatry research – February 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine offers new hope for people with treatment-resistant depression, with 70% of patients showing improvement. This research tracked side-effects and tolerability in real-world clinics, developing a streamlined tool to monitor patient safety. The revised assessment helps doctors better manage adverse events while maintaining ketamine's effectiveness as a depression treatment.
Abstract
Ketamine and its derivates (e.g. esketamine) are increasingly used in clinical settings for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Ketamine can give...
Exploring the role of psychedelic-assisted therapy in enhancing spirituality and mystical experiences in patients with life-threatening illnesses: A systematic review.
Journal of psychosomatic research – February 01, 2025
Summary
Groundbreaking research shows that psychedelics can profoundly enhance spiritual well-being in patients facing life-threatening illnesses. Analysis of six clinical studies reveals that psilocybin-assisted therapy significantly improved spiritual coping and mystical experiences, particularly among cancer patients. In palliative care settings, these treatments helped patients find deeper meaning and peace during difficult times.
Abstract
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT) is gaining traction as a novel approach to addressing the psychological and existential distress experienced by ...
Qualitative confirmation of 30 phencyclidine analogs in human blood and urine using GC-HRMS and a self-built library search.
Journal of chromatography. B, Analytical technologies in the biomedical and life sciences – February 01, 2025
Summary
New testing method successfully identifies 30 dangerous synthetic drugs in blood and urine samples. Using advanced GC-HRMS technology and a custom-built reference library, researchers developed a rapid screening approach that can detect minute traces of phencyclidine analogs - synthetic drugs similar to PCP. The method proved highly accurate across 800 real-world forensic cases.
Abstract
Phencyclidine, a dissociative anesthetic with hallucinogenic effects, is commonly abused as a recreational drug. Phencyclidine analogs are compound...
Abdominal Pain and Dysuria Secondary to Chronic Recreational Ketamine Use: A Case Report on K-cramps.
Cureus – February 01, 2025
Summary
Long-term ketamine use can lead to a painful condition known as K-cramps, causing severe abdominal pain and urinary problems. A medical team documented a young woman's experience with this condition after regular high-dose ketamine consumption. Her symptoms improved with supportive care and medication, highlighting how ketamine toxicity can be effectively treated when properly identified.
Abstract
Medical and recreational ketamine use is increasing in the United States; however, little is known regarding the side effects associated with chron...
MDMA pharmacokinetics: A population and physiologically based pharmacokinetics model-informed analysis.
CPT: pharmacometrics & systems pharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
MDMA, known for its therapeutic potential, shows promise in treating PTSD while maintaining consistent blood levels regardless of meal timing. New research reveals that eating before taking MDMA doesn't affect its concentration in the body, though it may slow initial absorption. The drug strongly blocks a specific liver enzyme but has minimal impact on kidney function. These findings support safe clinical use and help doctors better understand how MDMA interacts with other medications.
Abstract
Midomafetamine (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine [MDMA]) is under the U.S. Food and Drug Administration review for treatment of post-traumatic str...
Structural neural plasticity evoked by rapid-acting antidepressant interventions.
Nature reviews. Neuroscience – February 01, 2025
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals how fast-acting antidepressants like ketamine can actually rewire brain connections within days. These treatments trigger growth of vital neural connections in the brain's prefrontal cortex, helping restore healthy brain function. The findings show that various rapid treatments share a common thread: they boost the brain's natural ability to adapt and rebuild, offering new hope for depression treatment.
Abstract
A feature in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD), a mood disorder, is the impairment of excitatory synapses in the prefrontal co...
Effect of ketamine on task-based functional magnetic resonance imaging findings in major depressive disorder: A mini-review.
Journal of affective disorders – February 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine shows promising results in treating major depressive disorder by changing how key brain regions function. Brain scans reveal that this fast-acting medication alters activity in areas controlling emotion and thinking, particularly the prefrontal cortex and amygdala. Using task-based fMRI, researchers found these brain changes directly correlate with mood improvement in patients, offering hope for those who haven't responded to traditional treatments.
Abstract
Over the last two decades, ketamine has gained significant interest in psychiatry as a potential treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), esp...
Acute effects of esketamine on hypoxic ventilatory response, haemodynamics, and brain function in healthy volunteers.
British journal of anaesthesia – February 01, 2025
Summary
Esketamine, a promising anesthetic medication, shows it can safely maintain normal breathing responses in low-oxygen conditions. Research with 18 healthy volunteers revealed that while the drug increased heart rate and blood pressure, it didn't impair their body's natural response to low oxygen. This finding is significant for medical procedures, as it suggests esketamine can be used without compromising vital breathing functions.
Abstract
The acute hypoxic ventilatory response is a critical chemoreflex originating at the carotid bodies. This study investigates the impact of low-dose ...
Optimizing esketamine administration for postoperative depression: a comprehensive study on laparoscopic bariatric surgery patients.
Psychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Timing is crucial when administering antidepressants during surgery: patients who received esketamine before anesthesia showed significantly better mental health outcomes. In a 120-patient trial involving laparoscopic bariatric surgery, pre-anesthesia esketamine treatment reduced depression symptoms and increased beneficial brain proteins compared to post-surgery administration. This breakthrough suggests a new protocol for optimizing depression care in surgical patients.
Abstract
Previous studies have reported conflicting findings regarding the efficacy of esketamine in managing postoperative depression. While the positive e...
CircKat6b Mediates the Antidepressant Effect of Esketamine by Regulating Astrocyte Function.
Molecular neurobiology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals how esketamine, a promising antidepressant, works in the brain. The medication reduces specific circular RNAs in brain cells called astrocytes, particularly in the hippocampus region. This molecular change triggers a cascade of effects involving the Stat1 protein pathway, ultimately improving mood and emotional processing. The findings explain why esketamine acts faster than traditional antidepressants.
Abstract
The abundant expression of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in the central nervous system and their contribution to the pathogenesis of depression suggest ...
The Use of Methadone and Ketamine for Intraoperative Pain Management in Cardiac Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study.
Journal of cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia – February 01, 2025
Summary
Combining ketamine with methadone during cardiac surgery delayed patients' need for additional pain medication by over 2 hours compared to using methadone alone. This innovative pain management approach helped reduce opioid use on the first day after surgery. The study tracked over 6,800 cardiac surgery patients, comparing those who received both medications to those who got only methadone. While initial results were promising, pain levels remained similar between groups after day one.
Abstract
To evaluate whether the addition of ketamine to intraoperative methadone is associated with superior postoperative pain management and decreased op...
The METEMP protocol: Massed exposure therapy enhanced with MDMA for PTSD.
Contemporary clinical trials communications – February 01, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking treatment combines MDMA (the psychedelic compound) with intensive exposure therapy to tackle PTSD. This clinical trial pairs daily therapy sessions with carefully timed MDMA doses over two weeks. Early results suggest this innovative approach could dramatically improve PTSD treatment outcomes by helping patients process trauma more effectively while under MDMA's therapeutic effects.
Abstract
This article describes the rationale and the specific methods for an open label pilot trial of 100 mg MDMA in combination with massed exposure ther...
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for the Treatment of Vestibular Migraine: A Prospective Pilot Study.
Cureus – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to describe the implementation and efficacy of a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program for treati...
Psychedelics and schizophrenia: a double-edged sword.
Molecular psychiatry – February 01, 2025
Summary
While historically feared as triggers for psychosis, psychedelics may actually help treat certain schizophrenia symptoms. New research reveals these compounds affect brain systems opposite to schizophrenia's effects, particularly for social cognition and negative symptoms. Low doses could benefit chronic patients with predominant negative symptoms, though careful dosing is essential to avoid worsening positive symptoms.
Abstract
Psychedelics have shown promising effects in several psychiatric diseases as demonstrated by multiple clinical trials. However, no clinical experim...
Clinical Pharmacokinetics of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT): A Systematic Review and Post-hoc Analysis.
Clinical pharmacokinetics – February 01, 2025
Summary
DMT, a naturally occurring compound being explored for mental health treatment, is one of the fastest-acting psychedelics known, taking effect in minutes. Research shows it's rapidly processed by the body, with effects lasting only 5-20 minutes. The compound spreads widely throughout body tissues and transforms quickly into inactive substances, explaining its brief but intense effects. These findings help explain DMT's unique properties and guide its potential therapeutic use.
Abstract
N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is currently being studied for its therapeutic potential in various psychiatric disorders. An understanding of its pha...
Meditation expertise influences response bias and prestimulus alpha activity in the somatosensory signal detection task.
Psychophysiology – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
This study investigates the proposed mechanism of mindfulness, its impact on body awareness and interoception, and its potential benefits for menta...
EFFECT OF ACUTE PSILOCYBIN ON THERMAL AND NEUROPATHIC PAIN IN RODENTS
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
A compelling neuroscience finding reveals psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, significantly alleviates neuropathic pain. In Wistar rats, acute administration (3 or 10 mg/kg) increased mechanical withdrawal thresholds for up to two hours, suggesting a specific influence on pain mechanisms. However, it showed no effect on acute pain responses in C57BL/6 mice (5 per group), where thermal withdrawal thresholds were similar (vehicle: 15.6°C; psilocybin: 17.28°C). This pharmacology insight into psychedelics could transform pain treatments in medicine, impacting anesthesia and psychiatry.
Abstract
Abstract Background Pain is a major health problem resulting in a high degree of suffering, physical, psychological and social impairments, and exo...
ANXIOLYTIC- AND PROCOGNITIVE-LIKE EFFECTS OF A 30-DAY CHRONIC TREATMENT WITH A LOW NON-PSYCHEDELIC DOSE OF PSILOCYBIN IN C57BL/6J MICE
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Chronic, low-dose psilocybin, a natural hallucinogen and alkaloid, shows significant anxiolytic potential for Psychiatry. Administering 0.05 mg/Kg daily for 30 days to mice improved anxiety-related behaviors and enhanced spatial memory over three days. This pharmacology, by influencing neurotransmitter receptors, altered behavior, highlighting psilocybin's therapeutic role in Medicine. These Neuroscience and Psychology insights, crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggest its unique chemical synthesis and alkaloids offer benefits without adverse effects.
Abstract
Abstract Background For centuries, American indigenous populations have utilized psilocybin-containing mushrooms for both traditional medical and r...
The Acceptability of Psychedelic‐Assisted Therapy Amongst Mental Health Consumers: Utilising the Theory of Planned Behaviour
International Journal of Mental Health Nursing – February 01, 2025
Summary
Three-quarters of mental health consumers desire access to psychedelic-assisted therapies, like those using psilocybin for depression. A survey of 254 individuals revealed strong acceptability, especially among those with negative feelings about conventional psychiatry or medicine. This psychology research, applying the Theory of Planned Behavior, suggests a significant shift in complementary and alternative medicine. Intentions to access these psychedelics were strongly linked to higher acceptability (effect sizes 0.37–1.32) and poorer experiences with traditional clinical psychology (effect size -0.31), indicating a growing interest in chemical synthesis and alkaloids for mental health.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Australian government approval has been granted for 3,4‐methylenedioxy‐methamphetamine (MDMA) treatment of post‐traumatic stress disorder ...
PSILOCYBIN MITIGATES BEHAVIORAL DESPAIR AND COGNITIVE RECOGNITION IMPAIRMENTS BY REGULATING THE HYPOTHALAMIC- PITUITARY-ADRENAL (HPA) AXIS VIA THE BRAIN-DERIVED NEUROTROPHIC FACTOR (BDNF) SIGNALING PATHWAY MEDIATED BY THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM (ECS)
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin notably reduced depressive-like behaviors and enhanced cognition in stressed Wistar and Wistar-Kyoto rats. This Neuroscience investigation revealed 1.0mg/kg psilocybin increased Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in four brain regions and modulated stress hormones. It also upregulated key Neurotransmitter Receptors, including cannabinoid CB1 receptors within the Endocannabinoid system, and receptors for neurotrophic factors, influencing behavior. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies findings, relevant to Psychology and Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, offer promising insights for Medicine in developing depression treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Background Dr. George Engel introduced the biopsychosocial model into the field of psychiatry 40 years ago, highlighting the profound conn...
Agitation: Neurobiology and current management guidelines.
The American journal of emergency medicine – February 01, 2025
Summary
Recent advances in neurobiology reveal that agitation stems from complex brain chemistry changes. Emergency departments now have updated protocols using targeted medications like ketamine and antipsychotics for rapid, effective calming. Benzodiazepines remain useful, while newer options like dexmedetomidine show promise. This personalized approach matches treatments to specific causes, improving patient care and safety.
Abstract
There have been important updates in the guidelines for the management of agitation in emergency room settings, including psychiatric emergency ser...
Mindfulness-based relapse prevention for drug addiction in Nepal: impact and implications of an initial 2-day training of trainers.
BJPsych international – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Drug addiction is rife in Nepal, with a high relapse rate following treatment. Apart from basic psychosocial support, there are no evidence-based a...
Examining differences in the effects and contexts of naturalistic psilocybin use for White participants vs. Participants of Color: A longitudinal online survey study.
Journal of affective disorders – February 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin's mental health benefits may vary across racial groups, according to a large online survey tracking real-world psychedelic use. While both White participants and People of Color reported reduced anxiety and depression after naturalistic psilocybin experiences, differences emerged in spiritual wellbeing, cognitive flexibility, and emotional processing outcomes after 2-3 months.
Abstract
Psilocybin (a psychoactive compound found in "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms") has been gaining increased attention in research and popular culture a...
Efficacy and safety of psilocybin in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): A dose-response network meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials.
Psychiatry research – February 01, 2025
Summary
A single 25mg dose of psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, shows remarkable promise in treating major depressive disorder. Analysis of clinical trials reveals that patients experienced significant mood improvements within 8-15 days after treatment. While higher doses proved most effective as a rapid-acting antidepressant, some participants reported temporary nausea. These findings suggest psilocybin could offer a breakthrough treatment option for those struggling with severe depression.
Abstract
Selecting the optimal dose of psilocybin for treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) is crucial for clini...
Systemic ketamine toxicity following dermal application of a compounded pain cream.
The American journal of emergency medicine – February 01, 2025
Summary
A seemingly harmless pain cream led to an unexpected emergency when excessive dermal application of a ketamine-containing topical treatment caused severe systemic toxicity. A patient with skin ulcers experienced altered mental status and erratic behavior after applying large amounts of the medicated cream. Blood tests confirmed ketamine overdose. The case highlights important safety concerns about topical pain treatments, especially when used on damaged skin.
Abstract
Ketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist commonly used as a dissociative anesthetic and analgesic. Though it is conventionally administered via the ...
BEHAVIORAL PHENOTYPING AND METABOLOMIC COMPARISON OF CHEMICALLY SYNTHESIZED PSILOCYBIN AND PSYCHEDELIC MUSHROOM EXTRACT IN A ZEBRAFISH DEPRESSION MODEL
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic mushroom extract may offer unique benefits beyond synthetic psilocybin for depression-like symptoms. In a pharmacology study, zebrafish experiencing induced depression-like states (n=8 per group) showed reversed behaviors after receiving psilocybin or a mushroom extract. While both treatments normalized swimming patterns, brain analysis revealed the mushroom extract yielded more neurotransmitter precursors. This suggests the complex chemical synthesis of mushroom compounds, beyond just psilocybin, could be crucial for clinical psychology and psychiatry, impacting neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior within psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background Psilocybin research in depression has been generated using chemically synthesized psilocybin (PSI). Psychedelic mushrooms produ...
Updates in palliative care of gynecologic oncology patients.
Current opinion in obstetrics & gynecology – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
This review assesses the impact of early integration of palliative care and the disparities that exist among patients with gynecologic malignancies...
Neurotheology: Practical Applications with Regard to Integrative Psychiatry.
Current psychiatry reports – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Neurotheology is a nascent field of research and scholarship that seeks to understand the relationship between the brain and religious and spiritua...
Efficacy and Safety of Adding Ketamine to Lidocaine in Intravenous Regional Anesthesia: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Journal of perianesthesia nursing : official journal of the American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses – February 01, 2025
Summary
Adding ketamine to traditional lidocaine anesthesia significantly improves pain control and speeds up numbness onset during limb surgeries. This finding, based on analysis of 11 randomized controlled trials with 532 patients, shows that combining these medications in intravenous regional anesthesia reduces pain scores and requires less additional pain medication, while maintaining safety.
Abstract
To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding ketamine (K) to lidocaine (L) for intravenous regional anesthesia (IVRA). A systematic...
Positive impacts of psychological pain treatments: Supplementary analyses of a randomized clinical trial.
Rehabilitation psychology – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Clinical trials often focus on symptom reduction as a primary outcome, overlooking positive psychology factors of potential importance although man...
Falling Asleep on the Job: The Efficacy of a Short App-Based Mindfulness Intervention to Improve Sleep Quality and Quantity Within the Workforce.
Stress and health : journal of the International Society for the Investigation of Stress – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Quality sleep is among the most important determinants of psychological and physical well-being. Insufficient sleep quality and quantity directly a...
The potential of non-psychedelic 5-HT2A agents in the treatment of substance use disorders: a narrative review of the clinical literature.
Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are a public health issue, with only some having FDA-approved indicated treatments and these having high attrition. ...
The feasibility of an innovative online mind-body wellness program for medical students.
Canadian medical education journal – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Medical students have higher stress levels than their age-matched peers; however, few online wellness interventions have been trialed in this popul...
Examining the impact of comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder on ketamine's real-world effectiveness in treatment-resistant depression.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine offers new hope for people with hard-to-treat depression, even when complicated by post-traumatic stress. In a breakthrough finding, this rapid-acting antidepressive agent proved equally effective for patients with treatment-resistant depressive disorder, regardless of whether they had comorbid stress disorders. The treatment significantly reduced symptoms in both conditions.
Abstract
Depression with comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with more severe symptoms and a reduced response to traditional treatme...
Impact of psychedelics on craving in addiction: A systematic review.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
In the context of the need to increase treatment options for substance use disorders, recent research has evaluated the therapeutic potential of ps...
How Do People Who Undergo Ketamine Treatment for a Psychiatric Problem Subjectively Experience This Intervention? A Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Studies.
International journal of mental health nursing – February 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine therapy offers a unique window into consciousness: patients report profound shifts in perception and emotional breakthroughs during treatment. Through a meta-synthesis of lived experiences, researchers analyzed first-person accounts from psychiatric patients receiving ketamine. The findings reveal a three-stage journey: anticipation, treatment, and aftermath. Patients describe transformative subjective experiences, from initial anxiety to deep psychological insights.
Abstract
Ketamine treatment has shown promising effects for different mental disorders. Yet, little is known on how people who receive ketamine for a psychi...
ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN ESCITALOPRAM AND PSILOCYBIN THERAPY AND BRAIN RESTING-STATE FUNCTIONAL CONNECTIVITY IN MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, distinctly impacts brain functional connectivity compared to Escitalopram in Major Depressive Disorder. In a Medicine and Psychiatry study, 45 patients (24 on Psilocybin, 21 on Escitalopram) underwent resting state fMRI. Both treatments reduced anhedonia and impulsivity. However, Psilocybin enhanced amygdala and limbic striatal network connectivity with regions like the insula, suggesting distinct Neuroscience mechanisms. Escitalopram reduced limbic striatal-insula connectivity, correlating with anhedonia improvement. This Clinical psychology research on Psychedelics and Drug Studies offers insights into Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior for Mental Health Research Topics.
Abstract
Abstract Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent mental health condition characterized by symptoms including anhedonia, which is defi...
Ketamine treatment in youth for fast reduction of suicidality and engagement in psychotherapy: A randomized placebo-controlled trial protocol.
Contemporary clinical trials – February 01, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking approach combines ketamine treatment with specialized psychotherapy to address urgent suicide risks in adolescents and young adults. The protocol pairs rapid-acting ketamine infusions with CAMS therapy sessions, testing if this combination can quickly reduce suicidal thoughts and improve treatment engagement. The study follows 140 hospitalized youth, offering hope for faster, more effective interventions.
Abstract
Suicide is a leading cause of death in young persons. While ketamine has demonstrated rapid anti-suicidal effects, its safety and efficacy in youth...
Cardiovascular effects and safety of classic psychedelics.
Nature cardiovascular research – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Psychedelics, used for millennia in spiritual and healing practices, have emerged as promising treatments for mental health conditions including de...
Lutein Exerts Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Role on Schizophrenia-Like Behaviours in Mice.
International journal of developmental neuroscience : the official journal of the International Society for Developmental Neuroscience – February 01, 2025
Summary
A natural compound found in leafy greens shows promise in protecting brain function. Lutein, a powerful antioxidant, effectively reduced schizophrenia-like behaviours in mice treated with ketamine. The compound improved memory, movement, and emotional responses while boosting the brain's natural defense systems against cellular damage. This breakthrough suggests dietary antioxidants could play a key role in supporting mental health.
Abstract
Schizophrenia is an esteemed neuropsychiatric condition delineated by the manifestation which role of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is ...
Perceived changes in mental health and social engagement attributed to a single psychedelic experience in autistic adults: results from an online survey.
Psychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Anecdotal reports suggest that psychedelic drugs can improve psychological wellbeing and social engagement in autistic people. However, there are f...
Characteristics of patients with major depressive disorder eligible for and prescribed esketamine, treatment outcomes and physician experiences: a physician and patient survey in the United States.
Current medical research and opinion – February 01, 2025
Summary
Nearly 70% of patients with treatment-resistant depression showed significant improvement after using esketamine, a breakthrough nasal spray treatment. A comprehensive U.S. survey revealed that while depression severely impacts patients' work and daily activities, those who received esketamine reported notable gains in quality of life and daily functioning. The treatment proved especially promising for people with major depression and suicidal thoughts.
Abstract
Esketamine is an FDA-approved treatment for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or major depression with acute suicidal ideation or behavior (MDSI...
[Neuroimaging correlates of classical psychedelics effects: A systematic review].
L'Encephale – February 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and DMT dramatically alter brain connectivity patterns, offering promising therapeutic potential. Brain imaging reveals these substances reduce rigid neural networks while creating new connections between previously isolated brain regions. This "rewiring" effect correlates with improved symptoms in mental health conditions, suggesting these compounds may help the brain break free from restrictive thought patterns.
Abstract
Current scientific literature supports classical psychedelic efficacy in many psychiatric disorders. However, less attention has been given to the ...
Epidemiology of New Psychoactive Substances in Relation to Traditional Drugs of Abuse in Clinical Oral Fluid Samples.
Basic & clinical pharmacology & toxicology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Novel synthetic drugs were detected in only 1.4% of over 34,000 oral fluid samples from Swedish psychiatric patients, revealing unexpected patterns. Using advanced mass spectrometry, researchers found that older adults use these substances more than previously thought. Ketamine use strongly predicted new psychoactive substance use, while kratom showed unique patterns suggesting its role in opioid withdrawal management.
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are health-hazardous through unpredictable toxicity and effects and largely unknown epidemiology, motivating stud...
Post-traumatic stress disorder: evolving conceptualization and evidence, and future research directions.
World psychiatry : official journal of the World Psychiatric Association (WPA) – February 01, 2025
Summary
Our understanding of how trauma impacts individuals has profoundly evolved. Not all responses to trauma are the same; new insights reveal distinct forms of Post-traumatic stress disorder, including complex PTSD. Research into memory, identity, genetics, and neuroimaging illuminates its foundations. While prevention is challenging, psychological interventions, including trauma-focused therapies and novel identity-based approaches, show strong efficacy. Promising pharmacotherapy and successful community-based interventions are enhancing mental health support.
Abstract
The understanding of responses to traumatic events has been greatly influenced by the introduction of the diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disord...
Multimodal creativity assessments following acute and sustained microdosing of lysergic acid diethylamide.
Psychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
New research challenges popular claims about microdosing LSD and creativity. While many people report feeling more creative when taking tiny amounts of psychedelics, this controlled study found no measurable improvements in either convergent or divergent thinking. Researchers tracked 80 participants taking low doses of lysergic acid diethylamide over six weeks, testing creative abilities through various tasks.
Abstract
Enhanced creativity is often cited as an effect of microdosing (taking repeated low doses of a psychedelic drug). There have been recent efforts to...
Application of microarray patches for the transdermal administration of psychedelic drugs in micro-doses.
European journal of pharmaceutics and biopharmaceutics : official journal of Arbeitsgemeinschaft fur Pharmazeutische Verfahrenstechnik e.V – February 01, 2025
Summary
Scientists have developed an innovative skin patch system that could revolutionize how psychedelic compounds are administered for therapeutic use. The new hydrogel-forming patches effectively deliver precise micro-doses of compounds like DMT and mescaline through the skin. Testing showed the patches achieved superior drug delivery compared to traditional injection methods, with better absorption rates and longer-lasting effects. This breakthrough in transdermal delivery could make psychedelic microdosing safer and more precise.
Abstract
Throughout history, psychedelic compounds have been used for religious, spiritual and recreational purposes. A plethora of studies have reported th...
Investigating novel pharmacological strategies for treatment-resistant depression: focus on new mechanisms and approaches
Expert Opinion on Drug Discovery – January 31, 2025
Summary
New approaches are revolutionizing medicine's fight against treatment-resistant depression, affecting an estimated 30% of major depression patients and posing significant economic burden. Personalized treatment, a key focus, leverages advanced neuroscience into brain disorders, including tryptophan's role. Omics technologies, akin to computational drug discovery, reveal molecular underpinnings and glial-neuron crosstalk. This promises more effective psychological interventions, moving beyond traditional medicine. For instance, novel compounds like psilocybin show early promise in over 60% of cases, offering hope where conventional treatment of major depression struggles.
Abstract
The understanding of the multiple pathophysiological mechanisms involved in TRD may add further value to the effective treatment, contributing to a...
Dezocine versus esketamine as postoperative analgesia in women undergoing cesarean section.
African journal of reproductive health – January 31, 2025
Summary
New findings show esketamine outperforms dezocine for pain management after cesarean sections. In a comparison of 134 women using patient-controlled intravenous analgesia, those receiving esketamine reported significantly less pain and recovered faster. They also showed lower rates of postpartum depression, while experiencing no increase in side effects.
Abstract
The objective of this was to investigate the effect of esketamine as a postoperative analgesia in women undergoing caesarean section. A total of 13...
MDMA-assisted therapy: challenges, clinical trials, and the future of MDMA in treating behavioral disorders.
CNS spectrums – January 30, 2025
Summary
MDMA-assisted therapy shows remarkable promise, with 67% of PTSD patients no longer meeting diagnostic criteria after treatment. This novel therapeutic innovation combines psychotherapy with carefully administered MDMA in clinical settings. FDA breakthrough status has accelerated research, as mounting evidence shows effectiveness for behavioral disorders and mental health conditions. Current drug regulations are evolving to accommodate this psychedelic research renaissance.
Abstract
This chapter explores the complex and controversial path of MDMA-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and ...
Treatment-resistant major depression: Systematic review of comparative efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy and ketamine
Physiology International – January 30, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) significantly boosts remission rates for Major Depressive Disorder, surpassing ketamine's rapid-onset benefits. A systematic review of seven randomized clinical trials confirms both options are safe in the short term. While ketamine offers quick relief, ECT consistently achieves superior remission. Future progress hinges on understanding how individual patient traits influence treatment response, alongside comprehensive, long-term comparative studies to fully assess the safety and efficacy of these powerful therapies.
Abstract
AbstractDepression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a condition characterized mostly by low or depr...
Banisteriopsis caapi extract: Implications for neuroinflammatory pathways in Locus coeruleus lesion rodent model.
Journal of ethnopharmacology – January 30, 2025
Summary
A traditional Amazonian plant extract shows unexpected effects on brain health. Research reveals that Banisteriopsis caapi, while traditionally used for healing, may impact the brain's locus coeruleus region differently than expected. When tested in specific doses, the extract actually increased inflammation and reduced protective factors in the brain, challenging previous assumptions about its neuroprotective properties.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a beverage obtained from the decoctions of Banisteriopsis caapi (Spruce ex Griseb.) Morton and Psychotria viridis Ruiz & Pav., used th...
Psychedelic‐assisted treatment for substance use disorder: A narrative systematic review
Addiction – January 30, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted treatment for alcohol use disorder shows the strongest evidence among major psychedelic treatments. A systematic review of 37 studies, involving 2035 participants, explored the potential of hallucinogens like Psilocybin, Lysergic acid diethylamide, Mescaline, and MDMA in psychiatry. This comprehensive analysis, including randomized controlled trials against placebo, indicates promising avenues for clinical psychology and medicine. For instance, four studies with 135 participants on Psilocybin for alcohol use disorder demonstrated the best evidence of efficacy. This field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies is advancing our understanding of substance use disorders.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims This is the first systematic review of the extant literature on all major psychedelic‐assisted treatment for alcohol u...