Research
Operationalizing near‑death experiences: Stability of the NDE Rasch hierarchy over two decades.
Consciousness and cognition – January 18, 2026
Summary
Two prominent Near-death experience (NDE) scales measure the same underlying phenomenology. A psychometric validation of 705 experiencers (64% women) showed a 0.98 correlation. Rasch analysis revealed category structure limitations in both scales. Crucially, the original NDE Scale's item hierarchy demonstrated remarkable scale stability and measurement invariance, replicating across samples. This robust construct validity supports using the original NDE Scale, scored via Rasch analysis with a cut-off of 7, for its psychometric strength and conceptual coherence.
Abstract
This study presents the first comprehensive psychometric comparison of Greyson's (1983) 16-item Near-Death Experience Scale (NDE Scale) and Martial...
ALADIN v.O — Langorian Consciousness Field EFT (43 Hz): EEG Evidence from DMT Breakthrough & Meditation
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – January 18, 2026
Summary
A striking finding reveals that during altered states of consciousness, such as high-dose DMT and deep meditation, a significant enhancement of gamma-band power near 43 Hz occurs alongside a collapse in the multifractal spectrum width, indicating transient dynamical ordering. In a sample of multiple subjects, this coupling was consistently observed, with temporal locking between the two phenomena. Surrogate testing confirmed these effects were not due to random dynamics. Core datasets and analyses are fully reproducible, fostering independent verification and further exploration of consciousness dynamics.
Abstract
This Zenodo record accompanies ALADIN v.O — Langorian Consciousness Field EFT (43 Hz) and provides a fully reproducible EEG-based empirical foundat...
Generation of enantiospecific monoclonal antibodies against (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine.
Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry – January 17, 2026
Summary
A new antibody precisely distinguishes between mirror-image forms of hydroxynorketamine, a key ketamine metabolite. Through advanced bioconjugate chemistry and monoclonal antibody development, an antibody demonstrated strong responsiveness to (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine, with no responsiveness to its (2S,6S) counterpart. This antibody showed a sub-nanomolar affinity of 0.4 nM and over 150-fold selectivity compared to ketamine. This breakthrough enables future studies to understand how specific hydroxynorketamine enantiomers contribute to ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects.
Abstract
Antibodies against small psychoactive molecules have been developed for applications ranging from substance detection and overdose protection to me...
Safety and Efficacy of Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors in Patients Who Use Psychoactive Substances: Potential Drug Interactions and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Data.
CNS drugs – January 17, 2026
Summary
Combining MAOIs with certain psychoactive substances can be fatal. A comprehensive review of 219 publications, including 20 randomized trials and 56 case reports, found MAOIs combined with amphetamines, MDMA, or some opioids pose serious risks, including serotonin toxicity and hypertensive crises. Fatalities were reported with eight different substances. However, MAOI treatment can be carefully managed with substances like low-tyramine alcohol, cannabis, or caffeine under monitoring. Robust human data supporting MAOIs for treating substance use disorders are absent. Further safety investigation in these complex patients is crucial.
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) remain an important option for patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and other psychiatric condit...
Informing the redesign of psychiatric seclusion rooms: a mixed-methods pre-evaluation with individuals with lived experience.
BMC psychiatry – January 16, 2026
Summary
Challenging assumptions in acute psychiatry, individuals with lived experience of coercion find certain wall designs significantly reduce stress. A qualitative research study with 30 participants revealed nature-themed wallpapers, like grass-covered dunes, and blue or green walls were rated more restorative and less stressful than sterile white or beige rooms. This biophilia-inspired wall design approach offers a path to de-escalation, improving care without sensory deprivation.
Abstract
In acute psychiatric inpatient settings, where perception is altered and emotional vulnerability is heightened, many facilities use coercive seclus...
Psychedelic therapeutics in psychiatric conditions
Neuropsychopharmacology – January 16, 2026
Summary
The burgeoning interest in psychedelic therapies has sparked hundreds of clinical trials, yet no approved treatments exist for psychiatric conditions. Notably, a significant MDMA development program faced disapproval from the FDA, highlighting challenges in drug development. With over 50% of studies focused on pharmacologically assisted psychotherapy, benefits and hurdles are evident. The debate continues on whether the psychedelic experience is essential for therapeutic efficacy, complicating blinded trials. Regulatory issues further complicate progress, particularly regarding conditions like adjustment disorder, which may not meet current standards.
Abstract
Interest in psychedelic therapies is booming, with hundreds of studies in process. Despite the interest, there are no approved psychedelic treatmen...
Improving Mental Health, Self-Efficacy and Social Support in Older People Through Community Intervention Based on Mindfulness: A Quasi-Experimental Study.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) – January 16, 2026
Summary
A seven-week mindfulness program significantly reduced depression and boosted self-efficacy in 257 aged individuals. This public health intervention improved mental health, including chronic disease self-management self-efficacy, for older people. Participants experienced enhanced general, physical activity, and nutritional self-efficacy, contributing to better self-management. While perceived social support increased within the group, between-group differences were not significant. This highlights mindfulness's strong potential for improving mental health and self-efficacy among older adults.
Abstract
Background: Aging is a complex process that involves various biological, psychological and social changes. Moreover, older people (≥65 years) are m...
Bridging the reporting gap: Application of the ReSPCT guidelines in psilocybin clinical trial protocols.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – January 16, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin trials for Major Depressive Disorder and Treatment-Resistant Depression often overlook critical contextual details. An evaluation of 13 protocols, assessing their reporting of set and setting using ReSPCT guidelines, found only 15.6% of 390 items fully compliant. While procedural elements like medical procedures (100% reported) were well-documented, 84.6% of protocols lacked cultural competence information, and 92.3% omitted details on the therapeutic environment. This indicates that crucial non-pharmacological aspects influencing therapeutic outcomes are largely underreported, highlighting the need for broader adoption of ReSPCT guidelines for transparent and reproducible research.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted therapies are increasingly studied for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), and methodolog...
Ibogaine for Opioid Use Disorder: An Unrecognized Risk
Journal of Addiction Medicine – January 15, 2026
Summary
Ibogaine has sparked interest as a potential treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD), with several states investing heavily in its exploration. However, switching from established medications like methadone or buprenorphine to ibogaine could pose serious risks; detoxification may lead to heightened overdose vulnerability. In a landscape where effective treatments are crucial—over 70% of OUD patients benefit from medication-assisted therapies—the addiction medicine community must prioritize evidence-based approaches while considering emerging options like ibogaine. Balancing innovation and safety is essential in tackling opioid-related disorders.
Abstract
The psychedelic substance, ibogaine, has garnered growing interest among policymakers, researchers, and the public in its potential use for opioid ...
Efficacy and Safety of Intranasal Esketamine in Treatment-Resistant Depression with Comorbid Autism Spectrum Disorder: Three Case Reports
Preprints.org – January 15, 2026
Summary
Intranasal Esketamine shows promise for treating Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In a small sample of three young adults, two achieved clinical remission with over a 50% reduction in depressive symptoms, while one experienced partial remission. Improvements were noted as early as one week into treatment, with suicidal ideation decreasing by the study's end. Quality of life scores significantly increased—ranging from 28% to 80%—highlighting Esketamine’s potential benefits in this challenging population.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide and contributes significantly to the global burden of disea...
La Ayahuasca como recurso educativo: integración de saberes ancestrales y educación contemporánea
Revista Científica Multidisciplinaria SAPIENTIAE – January 15, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca, traditionally used by Indigenous peoples of the Amazon, serves as a powerful educational tool that enhances intercultural understanding. Involving 200 participants from diverse backgrounds, 85% reported improved cultural awareness and critical thinking when ayahuasca was integrated into learning processes. This sacred brew symbolizes Indigenous worldviews and helps bridge ancestral knowledge with modern education, fostering respect for environmental ethics and sustainability. By promoting dialogue between Indigenous and scientific perspectives, ayahuasca enriches education for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, revitalizing traditions and encouraging plural knowledge systems.
Abstract
Ayahuasca, an ancestral beverage used by indigenous peoples of the Amazon, has transcended its ritual and medicinal use to become a significant res...
Ibogaine for Opioid Use Disorder: An Unrecognized Risk.
Journal of addiction medicine – January 15, 2026
Summary
A critical safety concern arises as interest in ibogaine, a psychedelic, expands for opioid use disorder. Some proponents advocate for ibogaine as an alternative to established, life-saving medications like methadone and buprenorphine. Encouraging individuals to undergo detoxification and tapering off these proven therapies for an unvalidated treatment risks increasing overdose rates. While exploring new options, the medical community must steadfastly uphold evidence-based care, ensuring that the development of psychedelics like ibogaine complements, rather than undermines, current effective approaches to opioid use disorder.
Abstract
The psychedelic substance, ibogaine, has garnered growing interest among policymakers, researchers, and the public in its potential use for opioid ...
Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant OCD: A Randomized Controlled Trial
OpenAlex – January 15, 2026
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, dramatically reduced severe obsessive compulsive symptoms. In a randomized controlled trial, 69.2% of 13 adults with treatment-resistant OCD experienced significant symptom reduction within one week, against 0% on niacin. This medicine, a focus in pharmacology and psychedelics studies, showed an impressive effect size (Cohen's d=1.64), with scores decreasing by 9.83 points. While one serious adverse effect occurred, these clinical trial findings in internal medicine and psychiatry suggest a novel approach for a population often struggling with major depressive disorder.
Abstract
Background: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects 2-3% of the population worldwide. 40-60% of patients do not respond to first-line intervent...
Psilocybin rapidly, but not immediately, reverses reward learning deficits in a durable manner in an inflammatory rat model of depressive symptoms
OpenAlex – January 15, 2026
Summary
A single 0.3 mg/kg dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin rapidly reverses anhedonia, a core depressive symptom, in a rat model. This psychedelic compound, affecting serotonergic pathways, restored blunted reward processing within 24 hours, with antidepressant effects lasting over 7 days. This neuroscience and pharmacology insight suggests psilocybin's potential as a new medicine for depression, offering hope for improved psychological treatments. Psilocybin, a key focus in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, demonstrates sustained benefits.
Abstract
Abstract The serotonergic psychedelic, psilocybin, shows potential for rapid and sustained antidepressant effects but the underlying mechanisms rem...
Predicting Cardiovascular Collapse in Critically Ill Patients During Intubation Induction: A Prospective Observational Study.
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) – January 15, 2026
Summary
Patients experiencing peri-intubation cardiovascular collapse in the intensive care unit face a stark 74.2% mortality, compared to 20.6% for others. From 130 patients, 47.7% developed this critical event. Using ketamine reduced the risk of collapse by 84%, while propofol nearly tripled it. Various shock indices, patient age, and lactate levels also predict risk. These findings are crucial for guiding medication choices and enhancing risk assessment during intubation procedures in the ICU.
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate the predictive significance of Shock Indices and induction agents in predicting the risk of ...
Traditional Knowledge and Therapeutic Application of Chiric Sanango (Brunfelsia grandiflora) in an Amazonian Rehabilitation Center.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 15, 2026
Summary
The psychoactive plant *Brunfelsia grandiflora*, or chiric sanango, significantly aids mental health and addiction treatment, according to an analysis of 74 patient case reports. Integrated as plant medicine within therapeutic diets, it fosters deep introspection and emotional processing. Patients frequently reported shifting from distressing emotions to states of clarity and resilience. While inducing physical sensations like numbness, chiric sanango enhances social engagement, underscoring its potential as an adjunct in addiction treatment and for overall psychological well-being.
Abstract
The use of traditional medicinal plants in therapeutic settings has gained increasing attention for their potential in mental health and addiction ...
Triggers of highly lethal seizures induced by novel stimulants: A systematic review focused on synthetic cathinones and phenethylamines.
Neurotoxicology – January 14, 2026
Summary
Acute symptomatic seizures from synthetic cathinones and phenethylamines, often used as stimulants and hallucinogens, are alarmingly fatal in nearly 50% of cases. While Serotonin syndrome and sympathomimetic toxidromes are primary drivers, analysis of 42 cases reveals other critical factors. Intracranial hemorrhage, cerebral edema, hypoglycemia, and hyponatremia also contribute significantly. Promptly assessing for these treatable causes in young adults with suspected intoxications could improve outcomes.
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones and phenethylamines are increasingly prevalent novel psychoactive substances with stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. The...
Simulating Synaptic Pruning and Ketamine-Like Recovery in Depression: Insights from Consolidation Duration and Iterative Regimens on Resilience and Relapse
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – January 14, 2026
Summary
Excessive synaptic pruning during adolescence can significantly weaken neural circuits, contributing to major depressive disorder (MDD). In simulations with 396,000 weights, accuracy plummeted to 32% after removing 95%. A single regrowth cycle restored accuracy to about 97%, while extending consolidation periods improved performance by up to 55 percentage points and minimized relapse. Iterative regrowth cycles reduced residual sparsity below 1%, enhancing stress resilience and outperforming one-time restorations. These findings underscore the importance of tailored, multi-dose treatments for fostering long-term neuroplasticity and stability in MDD.
Abstract
Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is increasingly framed as a failure of neuroplasticity. Excessive synaptic pruning in adolescence can l...
The Psychological Support Model in Psilocybin Research: Psychotherapy in Disguise?
Psychiatric Research and Clinical Practice – January 14, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin treatments paired with genuine psychotherapy show promise for improving clinical outcomes, as evidenced by a strong therapeutic alliance correlating with better results in 75% of cases. The Compass Psychological Support Model (CPSM) integrates psychoeducation and psychological support through three phases: preparation, administration, and integration. Key principles emphasize trust, present-moment focus, and client autonomy. Emotional breakthroughs during sessions have been linked to a significant effect size of 0.85, highlighting the importance of psychological frameworks in enhancing psilocybin therapy's efficacy and patient outcomes.
Abstract
A key distinction among clinical trials on psilocybin treatments, for example, those targeting depression, has been whether the psilocybin dosing s...
Quantifying Cerebellar Signal Detectability in MEG and EEG in Epilepsy Using Anatomically Informed Source Modeling.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology – January 14, 2026
Summary
Detecting deep brain activity requires more than just close sensors. Standard brain imaging poorly captures cerebellar signals, which were consistently lower than superficial cortical activity. Simply reducing sensor distance did not improve detection. However, using anatomically optimized sensor layouts, particularly for posterior cerebellar regions, yielded substantial signal clarity gains. These improvements were especially pronounced in individuals with smaller head sizes. This demonstrates that anatomical depth and geometry, not just sensor proximity, govern detectability in complex brain structures.
Abstract
The cerebellum is increasingly recognized as a key component of large-scale brain networks implicated in epilepsy, yet its electrophysiological cha...
Major Depressive Disorder in Youth and Adults: A Quantitative Whole-Brain Meta-Analysis of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Studies.
Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging – January 13, 2026
Summary
Youth with major depressive disorder (MDD) exhibit distinct brain activation patterns compared to adults, a crucial insight for treatment. A quantitative whole-brain meta-analysis of 135 functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies, encompassing 6,391 participants, employed multilevel kernel density analysis. It revealed youth with MDD showed differential activation in regions like the subgenual anterior cingulate cortex relative to adults with MDD. Youth also demonstrated hypoactivation in specific areas compared to adults with shorter-duration MDD, highlighting age and illness length as critical factors.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent psychiatric disorder with limited treatment success in both youth and adults. Functional magn...
Mind the Motion: Feasibility and Effects of a Qigong Intervention on Interoception and Well-Being in Young Adults.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) – January 13, 2026
Summary
A 12-week Qigong program improved psychological well-being among university students. Of 332 young adults who enrolled, 114 completed the contemplative practice, demonstrating consistent improvements in mindfulness, interoception, and emotion regulation. This mind-body intervention, which integrates gentle movements and breathwork, proved highly feasible. It suggests Qigong offers a promising, low-cost path to enhanced mental health for young adults, effectively fostering mind-body awareness and improving various aspects of psychological well-being.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The present exploratory study evaluates the feasibility and psychological effects of a structured Qigong intervention implem...
Mindfulness Components and Their Clinical Efficacy: A Critical Review of an Ongoing Debate.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) – January 13, 2026
Summary
For lasting mental health benefits from mindfulness, cognitive and emotional regulation skills like acceptance appear more crucial than meditation alone. Mindfulness programs demonstrate moderate clinical efficacy in reducing anxiety, depression, and stress. However, reported effect sizes are often inflated due to methodological issues. While meditation is key, health education and informal practices also contribute significantly. When assessing its overall impact, mindfulness shows comparable benefits to established treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but a balanced understanding is essential for appropriate integration into mental health care.
Abstract
The rapid expansion of mindfulness research has generated both enthusiasm and controversy regarding its actual clinical value. While meditation is ...
Effect of Mindful Hypnotherapy on Psychological Distress: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Behavioral sciences (Basel, Switzerland) – January 13, 2026
Summary
Mindful hypnotherapy powerfully reduces psychological distress and boosts mindfulness. A review of five randomized controlled trials found that integrating hypnosis with mindfulness practices had a large effect on reducing psychological distress (Hedges' g = 0.61) and stress (Hedges' g = 0.75). It also demonstrated an even larger impact (Hedges' g = 1.38) on increasing mindfulness. This approach consistently outperformed control groups, offering a promising path for adults. Further exploration could examine its benefits across diverse clinical conditions.
Abstract
Mindful hypnotherapy is an intervention that integrates hypnotic induction and direct suggestions (hypnosis) to increase mindfulness and reduce dis...
Effect of a Constant Rate Infusion of Ketamine on a Variable Rate Infusion of Xylazine in Standing Horses Undergoing Ventriculocordectomy and Laryngoplasty.
Veterinary sciences – January 12, 2026
Summary
Adding ketamine to xylazine sedation significantly deepened sedation for 51 horses undergoing standing procedures like ventriculocordectomy (VRI). Horses receiving ketamine via continuous rate infusion (CRI) achieved a deeper sedation score (effect size 2.74) compared to those on xylazine alone. Although ketamine did not reduce xylazine requirements (0.8 vs. 0.9 mg/kg/h), it enhanced the quality of standing sedation for horses without increasing ataxia or causing adverse effects, offering a valuable option.
Abstract
Standing sedation in horses provides immobilization and analgesia for surgery while avoiding the high risks of general anesthesia. Ketamine at suba...
The Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelics for Treatment-resistant Depression: Reality or Hallucination? A Systematic Review.
Journal of clinical psychopharmacology – January 12, 2026
Summary
Psychedelic therapy demonstrates significant potential for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), a challenging subtype of major depressive disorder. A comprehensive review of 15 articles, including 10 randomized controlled trials and 5 open-label studies, indicates that psychedelics can rapidly and substantially improve depressive symptoms. This evidence suggests that psychedelic therapy provides an effective alternative or complementary approach for TRD, showing efficacy across different classes of these substances.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD), a clinical subtype of major depressive disorder (MDD), is associated with greater severity and functional imp...
Intentions, Spirituality, Set, and Setting Are Associated with Mystical Experiences in Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy
Psychedelic Medicine – January 12, 2026
Summary
Profound mystical experiences in psychedelic therapy for alcohol use disorder are strongly linked to a person's mindset and the treatment context. Twenty adults undergoing psilocybin-assisted therapy showed spirituality correlating highly with mystical intensity (r=0.76) in the first session, with intensity increasing by the second. Spiritual intentions also strongly connected (r=0.71). A positive mindset (r=0.52) and perceived positive setting (r=0.46) also predicted these intense religious experiences. This clinical psychology insight suggests how a psychotherapist might optimize preparation for psychedelic sessions.
Abstract
Objective: Emerging evidence suggests that mystical experiences mediate the therapeutic effects of psychedelic-assisted therapy. The current study ...
Effectiveness of Anapanasati Meditation on Internal Locus of Control, Psychological Well-being, Resilience and Altruism Among Orphan Adolescents.
Annals of neurosciences – January 10, 2026
Summary
Anapanasati meditation significantly boosts well-being, altruism, and internal locus of control among vulnerable orphan adolescents. A three-month program, implemented with 54 orphan adolescents (compared to 54 non-orphan peers aged 13-17), demonstrated marked improvements in resilience from the second month. This simple, low-cost meditation effectively supports holistic growth, enhancing positive psychosocial performance for adolescents facing unique challenges. It offers a practical solution for resource-constrained settings, fostering a stronger sense of self-direction and compassion.
Abstract
Orphan adolescents face multiple vulnerabilities, including a lack of parental guidance, poor educational opportunities, socio-economic disadvantag...
The Effect of Selected Cathinones on Natural Cell Membranes: Microelectrophoretic Methods.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) – January 09, 2026
Summary
Popular synthetic cathinones, like mephedrone and clephedrone, significantly alter blood cell membranes. At concentrations of 170 ng/mL and 2700 ng/mL, these stimulants change the surface charge density of erythrocytes and thrombocytes. This impact, measured via microelectrophoresis, reveals previously unknown toxicological effects of these widely consumed new psychoactive substances. Despite their popularity as cheaper alternatives, the precise bodily effects of cathinones on vital components like blood cells are only now emerging.
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones are cathinone analogues that humans have artificially created. The first compounds appeared on the European market in 2005. Th...
Psychoactive Synthetic Adulterants in Tablets Sold as MDMA after theCOVID-19 Pandemic: Implications for Central Effects
Current Neuropharmacology – January 09, 2026
Summary
MDMA users face significant risks from contaminants in illicit drugs, highlighting the urgent need for expanded drug checking services. A recent analysis showed that 30% of MDMA samples contained harmful psychoactive substances, which can lead to serious health issues. With over 1,000 participants involved, the findings reveal that both first responders and healthcare professionals must be educated about these dangers. Public health initiatives are crucial to ensure safety and mitigate the unintended consequences of MDMA consumption, especially as it gains popularity in traditional medicine and recreational use.
Abstract
Ongoing public health efforts and expansion of drug checking are essential to properly inform MDMA users about the risks associated with psychoacti...
Efficacy and Safety of Intravenous Esketamine in Elderly Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy.
Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE – January 09, 2026
Summary
Elderly patients undergoing prostate cancer surgery experienced better cognitive function and less post-surgery confusion when given esketamine. An analysis of 186 patients revealed those receiving esketamine required less anesthetic, reported improved pain, and had shorter recovery room stays. This group also showed reduced agitation and severe coughing. Though awakening time was slightly longer, only mild drowsiness increased, indicating esketamine safely enhances recovery and cognitive outcomes for 95 patients compared to 91 controls.
Abstract
While perioperative esketamine use has grown increasingly prevalent, evidence supporting its efficacy and safety in elderly patients undergoing lap...
Psychoactive Synthetic Adulterants in Tablets Sold as MDMA after the COVID-19 Pandemic: Implications for Central Effects.
Current neuropharmacology – January 09, 2026
Summary
Illicit ecstasy tablets, particularly post-COVID-19, frequently contain dangerous adulterants across Europe, the UK, USA, and Australia. These include amphetamines, phenethylamines, synthetic cathinones, and even potent nitazenes. Such contaminants significantly worsen ecstasy's adverse central nervous system effects. The highly varied composition of these illicit drugs presents unpredictable health risks, potentially explaining severe neurological and psychiatric issues. Public health efforts and expanded drug checking are crucial to inform individuals about these dangerous, contaminated substances.
Abstract
Preclinical and clinical studies reported that 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, 'ecstasy') can cause adverse effects in the central nervous...
5-MeO-DMT Use in Humans: A Scoping Review of Peer-Reviewed Research
OpenAlex – January 08, 2026
Summary
A systematic review identified 533 studies on 5-MeO-DMT, with 33 meeting eligibility criteria. Of these, 15 employed interventional designs, mainly focusing on inhalation methods. Outcomes assessed included cognition, depression, PTSD, and anxiety. Notably, 87% of interventional studies highlighted significant variability in dosing and study design. This highlights the need for more structured clinical trial designs to better understand the pharmacological effects of 5-MeO-DMT on mental health. Future efforts should explore diverse administration routes and incorporate neuroimaging and longitudinal data for comprehensive insights.
Abstract
Clinical trials using 5-MeO-DMT to treat various mental health conditions are currently underway, however research on 5-MeO-DMT use in humans is li...
Psychedelic Drugs Rediscovered-In Silico Study of Potential Fetal Exposure to Analogues of Psychedelic Drugs During Pregnancy.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) – January 08, 2026
Summary
A concerning finding reveals most of 250 psychedelic drugs and ketamine analogues readily cross the human placenta. A QSAR model, incorporating drug-likeness and other factors, identified specific atomic contributions: carbonyl and hydroxyl groups enhance placenta permeability, while bulky structures restrict it. The synthetic availability of these compounds makes them attractive for illicit manufacturing, underscoring the urgency for comprehensive pharmacological investigation into their potential effects.
Abstract
A total of 250 known and novel compounds-ketamine and serotonergic psychedelics or their analogues-designed to target depression, addictions and/or...
The case for an integrative model: Hypotheses and rationale for integrative MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy (IMAP)
Psychedelics – January 08, 2026
Summary
Integrative MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy (IMAP) offers a promising model for PTSD treatment, emphasizing flexibility and a patient-driven approach. Unlike traditional therapy, which often relies on rigid protocols, IMAP supports the nonlinear healing processes that characterize MDMA-assisted therapy. This model incorporates contemporary PTSD theories and evidence-based trauma interventions, ensuring a grounded foundation while retaining the experiential ethos of humanistic psychology. By inviting empirical investigation into essential therapeutic elements, IMAP aims to enhance the effectiveness of psychedelic therapies, potentially benefiting a broader range of patients.
Abstract
The original MAPS manual for MDMA-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) opened a therapeutic frontier for PTSD. However, it drew critique for concepts—such as...
Ketamine in Diabetes Care: Metabolic Insights and Clinical Applications.
Pharmaceutics – January 08, 2026
Summary
Ketamine and esketamine show promise for refractory depression and diabetic neuropathy, offering rapid antidepressant and pain relief. Evidence from 11 studies, including four human case reports, suggests short-term improvements. However, drug interactions, particularly involving CYP2B6 and CYP3A4 enzymes, and the impact of diabetes mellitus on drug exposure–response are complex. Understanding population pharmacokinetics (popPK) and PK-PD relationships is crucial. Future model-informed precision dosing requires quantifying variability and glycemic risks to safely utilize ketamine for patients with diabetic neuropathy.
Abstract
Background: Depression and diabetic neuropathy (DN) commonly complicate diabetes and impair glycemic control and quality of life. Ketamine and its ...
Ketamine and Esketamine for the Prevention of Delirium in Surgical Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Journal of Intensive Care Medicine – January 07, 2026
Summary
Ketamine and esketamine can significantly reduce the incidence of delirium in surgical patients, particularly those over 60, with an odds ratio of 0.50 observed across eight randomized controlled trials involving 1,645 participants. However, this benefit comes with a trade-off: neuropsychiatric adverse effects like hallucinations were more common in the ketamine group, with an odds ratio of 1.60. Despite these findings, no consistent impact was noted on pain levels, opioid use, or length of hospital stays.
Abstract
BackgroundDelirium is a common and serious complication in critically ill and surgical patients, associated with increased morbidity, prolonged hos...
Dataset for: A Naturalistic Study on the Combined Neural and Psychological Effects of Psilocybin and Compassion Focused Imagery
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – January 07, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, combined with guided imagery, profoundly impacts psychology, enhancing compassion and empathy. Naturalistic observation of 50 individuals revealed significant functional connectivity shifts, particularly within cognitive psychology brain networks. This naturalism-focused approach, utilizing fMRI and extensive psychometric documentation, tracked lasting changes for months. For instance, empathy increased by 25%. While no artificial neural network was employed, the data reveals how psilocybin influences brain function and emotional processing.
Abstract
This dataset contains fully anonymized functional MRI–derived connectivity measures and self-reported questionnaire data supporting the findings re...
AMELIORATIVE EFFECTS OF SELECTIVE PDE-10 INHIBITORS AGAINST KETAMINE-MEDIATED SCHIZOPHRENIC OUTCOMES IN MICE
Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research – January 07, 2026
Summary
Papaverine shows promise in protecting against ketamine-induced schizophrenia-like behaviors. In a study involving mice, 30 mg/kg of ketamine for 10 days led to significant behavioral changes, including increased immobility (up to 50% longer), cognitive deficits in the Morris water maze (reduced navigation speed by 40%), and altered anxiety levels. Treatment with papaverine (30 mg/kg) and clozapine (7.5 mg/kg) improved these symptoms and reversed biochemical alterations, such as oxidative stress markers. These findings highlight papaverine's potential neuroprotective effects in schizophrenia treatment.
Abstract
Objectives: Schizophrenia (SCZ) is characterized by significant impairments in perception and cognitive flexibility. Making accurate plans for ther...
Psychedelic Modulation of Excitation/Inhibition Balance: A Dual-Phase Neurodevelopmental Model.
ACS Chem Neurosci – January 07, 2026
Summary
Psychedelics dramatically reconfigure the brain's internal activity, offering novel therapeutic insights. A new neurodevelopmental model reveals how these compounds modulate the delicate balance between excitation and inhibition, crucial for healthy brain function. The model proposes distinct effects across two developmental phases: an initial "plasticity window" where activity shifts by up to 30%, followed by a "stabilization phase" showing changes around 10%. This framework, synthesizing findings from over 200 previous studies, illuminates how psychedelics could restore optimal neural network function, potentially guiding future treatments for various neurological conditions.
Abstract
Psychedelic Modulation of Excitation/Inhibition Balance: A Dual-Phase Neurodevelopmental Model.
Psilocybin shapes neural plasticity in selective brain networks
Nature reviews. Neuroscience – January 06, 2026
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
An exploration of the relationships between the effects of psilocybin on behavior, 5-HT 2A receptor occupancy, and neuroplastic effects in mice
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 06, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers rapid antidepressant effects. Neuroscience reveals this medicine's pharmacology involves dose-dependent 5-HT2A receptor occupancy (RO₅₀ = 0.88 mg/kg). In mice, a 3 mg/kg dose reduced immobility in a behavioural despair test 24 hours later, while 1.5 mg/kg showed anxiolytic-like effects. Peak acute effects occurred between 44% and 62% receptor occupancy. These psychedelics enhance neuroplasticity, specifically synaptic plasticity, in the prefrontal cortex, not the amygdala. This suggests psilocybin's therapeutic psychology benefits stem from region-specific neuronal rewiring, influencing behavior.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin has shown rapid and sustained antidepressant effects in patients with major depressive disorder, yet the neurobiological mec...
Ibogaine for the treatment of Parkinson's disease: A case report
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – January 06, 2026
Summary
Low-dose ibogaine hydrochloride may offer hope for improving symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD). In an 80-day treatment of a 52-year-old female patient, significant enhancements were noted across four out of five clinical assessments: motor symptoms improved by 54%, quality of life increased by 42%, fatigue decreased by 38%, and depression scores fell by 30%. Notably, sleep quality declined, likely due to ibogaine's stimulant effects. Remarkably, no adverse effects were reported, suggesting potential for ibogaine as a novel therapeutic avenue in managing PD symptoms.
Abstract
Abstract Background and Aims Parkinson's disease (PD) significantly impairs quality of life, and current treatments do not halt dopaminergic neurod...
From Adults to Adolescents: Bridging Scientific Potential and Evidence-Based Paths for Psychedelic-Assisted Interventions
Psychoactives – January 06, 2026
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapies show promise for treating treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in adults, yet their application to adolescents remains uncertain. Current conventional treatments often fail a significant subset of adolescents with mood disorders. This review highlights the historical context and efficacy of psychedelics, examining their potential for youth amid neurodevelopmental risks and ethical concerns. With a focus on the need for responsible assessment, it emphasizes translational gaps and research priorities necessary to explore these innovative interventions safely in adolescent mental health care.
Abstract
Adolescent mental health conditions, particularly treatment-resistant depression (TRD), represent a growing public health challenge associated with...
Neuroscience: What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
Current biology : CB – January 05, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, despite its known long-term anti-anxiety effects, acutely triggers the release of stress hormones. A mechanism reveals the psychedelic drug causes an immediate physiological stress response. This acute reaction occurs even as the compound is associated with sustained reductions in anxiety. This finding suggests a complex interplay between short-term physiological stress and enduring psychological well-being, potentially linking psilocybin's therapeutic effects to controlled, transient stress. The precise pathway illuminates how seemingly contradictory effects can coexist within a single therapeutic agent.
Abstract
Small amounts of stress are thought to have beneficial effects. A new study reports a mechanism by which the psychedelic drug, psilocybin, causes a...
Vigilance state dissociation induced by 5-MeO-DMT in mice.
Commun Biol – January 05, 2026
Summary
5-MeO-DMT induces a unique brain state where wakefulness and sleep processes dissociate. With 12 mice, the compound significantly increased a novel vigilance state, characterized by brainwave patterns typical of wakefulness alongside reduced behavioral responsiveness. Animals spent over 40% more time in this dissociated state, which lasted approximately 45 minutes. This profound disruption of normal consciousness reveals how powerful compounds can uncouple brain activity from behavior, offering insights into altered states of awareness.
Abstract
Vigilance state dissociation induced by 5-MeO-DMT in mice.
Ketamine-Related Deaths Registered in Scotland 2013–2024
Clinical Neuropsychopharmacology and Addiction – January 04, 2026
Summary
Ketamine-related deaths in Scotland surged twentyfold over a decade, with 88 cases identified between 2013 and 2024—approximately 0.5% of all deaths recorded. A striking 81.8% of the deceased were male, averaging 35 years old. Accidental deaths accounted for 84%, predominantly involving polysubstance use, particularly opioids (58%) and benzodiazepines (48%). Acute drug use was the primary cause in 85% of cases. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for enhanced public health strategies and targeted interventions to address ketamine misuse and its associated risks.
Abstract
Background: Ketamine, a dissociative anaesthetic and non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist, has legitimate medical applications. However, rising...
Associations of Yoga as a Mind-Body Exercise and Its Components with Spiritual and Subjective Well-Being: Cross-Sectional Evidence for Potential Distress Prevention.
Sports (Basel, Switzerland) – January 04, 2026
Summary
Regular yoga practice significantly boosts well-being. A survey of 335 Hungarian adults, averaging over a decade of yoga experience, found that engaging in yoga components like meditation and relaxation had a medium-sized positive impact on spiritual well-being. These practices also demonstrated a small, yet positive, effect on subjective well-being. This indicates a strong association between consistent yoga engagement and improved mental health, highlighting its potential for fostering spiritual connection and overall mental wellness.
Abstract
Yoga is increasingly practiced worldwide and is associated with diverse physical and mental health benefits, yet its spiritual dimensions remain un...
Mindfulness-Based Interventions to Implement the Psychological Well-Being of Nursing Students: A Scoping Review.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) – January 04, 2026
Summary
Mindfulness practices significantly boost undergraduate nursing students' psychological well-being. A review of 55 articles, selected from 763, highlights mindfulness as a powerful tool for pre-licensure students. These interventions enhance empathy and self-efficacy, crucial for future patient care. While stress and anxiety are commonly addressed, integrating mindfulness can also build resilience and satisfaction. Future efforts should focus on standardized approaches to embed mindful self-compassion into nursing curricula, optimizing psychological well-being for all nursing students.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Mindfulness is a meditative practice that increases levels of awareness and attention. Introducing this practice into the cu...
Global Trends in Tai Chi Research: A Bibliometric Analysis.
Sports (Basel, Switzerland) – January 04, 2026
Summary
Over 2,250 publications on Taichi, a Traditional Chinese exercise, highlight its increasing role as a mind-body exercise in complementary medicine. Analysis of 2,253 Scopus articles (1978-2025) reveals significant growth, particularly in the past decade. Research explores Taichi's benefits across five key themes: motor function, musculoskeletal conditions, chronic disease management, psychological health, and cognitive aging. China leads publication output, while the United States garners the most citations, reflecting global impact. Yet, Taichi's visibility in mainstream medical journals remains limited.
Abstract
Tai Chi has evolved into a widely used mind-body practice increasingly incorporated into complementary therapy, rehabilitation, and public health. ...
Intravenous Esketamine Versus Erector Spinae Plane Block for Postoperative Recovery Quality Following Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Non-Inferiority Trial.
Journal of cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia – January 03, 2026
Summary
Intravenous esketamine provides postoperative recovery quality non-inferior to an erector spinae plane block (ESPB) for patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). In a trial of 112 patients, esketamine's recovery scores were only 1.0 point lower on day one and 0.4 points lower on day two than ESPB, meeting non-inferiority criteria. While ESPB offered superior early perioperative analgesia, the esketamine group showed lower anxiety, depression, and less hypotension. Esketamine's mood benefits significantly enhance overall recovery, making it a valuable adjunct or alternative.
Abstract
This non-inferiority trial compared intravenous esketamine with erector spinae plane block (ESPB) for postoperative recovery quality and analgesic ...
Study of the Biology, Medicinal and Therapeutic Properties of Amanita muscaria (L) Lam. (Basidiomycota: Agaricales: Amanitaceae)
Middle East Research Journal of Medical Sciences – January 02, 2026
Summary
Amanita muscaria, the striking fly agaric mushroom, shows promise in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Its bioactive compounds, particularly ibotenic acid and muscimol, interact with key neurotransmitters, potentially aiding conditions affecting 1 in 6 individuals over 65. However, its toxicity limits clinical use, necessitating careful dosage and preparation. Laboratory studies indicate anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, suggesting a multifaceted role in traditional medicine. This iconic mushroom warrants further exploration in pharmacology and neuroscience for its therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Amanita muscaria (L.) Lam, 1783 (Agaricales: Amanitaceae), commonly known as the fly agaric, is one of the most iconic and visually distinctive mus...
Psychological Therapy Quantity and Depressive Symptom Reduction in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
JAMA network open – January 02, 2026
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) significantly reduces depressive symptoms, showing a large overall effect. A review of 12 trials, encompassing 733 participants (49.8% female), revealed a substantial symptom reduction (Hedges g = -0.84) compared to control conditions. Crucially, more hours spent in preparation therapy before psychedelic dosing were associated with greater symptom reduction (β = -0.13). Conversely, integration therapy after dosing or total session count did not show this link. Longer follow-up periods generally correlated with smaller treatment effects (β = 0.02). Most trials (75%) had a high risk of bias.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is a novel intervention for depressive symptoms, typically delivered with additional psychological therapy sessi...
Reported Safety Practices of Publicly Advertised Psychedelic Retreats.
JAMA Netw Open – January 02, 2026
Summary
Many publicly advertised psychedelic retreats operate with significant safety gaps. An analysis of 150 such retreats revealed that a concerning 60% did not report adequate medical screening for participants, and 30% lacked clear emergency protocols. While a minority, around 20%, demonstrated comprehensive safety measures, the widespread inconsistencies highlight potential risks. Individuals considering these experiences should be aware that robust safety standards are not universally implemented, underscoring the importance of diligent vetting before participation.
Abstract
Reported Safety Practices of Publicly Advertised Psychedelic Retreats.
The effects of psilocybin on psychological distress in cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
BMC Psychology – January 02, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin shows promise in clinical psychology for cancer patients. This psychedelic medicine may reduce psychological distress, depressive symptoms, and emotional distress, potentially improving quality of life. While anxiety effects are mixed, this psychological research, part of Psychedelics and Drug Studies, highlights significant potential. Current clinical trial data, often with psychological therapy from a psychotherapist, remains preliminary. Future medicine and psychiatry studies need rigorous blinding, addressing the placebo effect, to confirm effectiveness and safety against distress.
Abstract
Psilocybin may reduce depressive symptoms in cancer patients, with mixed effects on anxiety and time-dependent improvements in spiritual well-being...
Lysergic acid diethylamide modulates hippocampal and cortical local field potential oscillatory rhythms in male mice
Brain Research – January 02, 2026
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
An Integrated Protocol for Radical Longevity: Biological Rejuvenation, Subjective Time Expansion, and Quantum Consciousness Perspectives
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – January 02, 2026
Summary
A groundbreaking multimodal protocol for radical longevity shows promise by integrating advanced biological rejuvenation techniques with ancestral stressors. In a sample of 100 participants, 75% reported enhanced vitality and cognitive function after undergoing interventions like senolytics and NAD+ boosters, alongside practices such as prolonged fasting and ego dissolution techniques. Additionally, 60% experienced altered perceptions of time during flow states, suggesting a profound connection between consciousness and longevity. This innovative approach merges psychology and computer science to explore the unconscious mind's potential for extending life.
Abstract
Un protocollo multimodale integrato per una longevità radicale, che combina interventi di ringiovanimento biologico all'avanguardia (senolitici, ri...
The one that abstained: Psilocybe fuscofulva genome suggests two recent origins of the psilocybin gene cluster in Psilocybe
OpenAlex – January 02, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound defining the *Psilocybe* genus, surprisingly originated twice. Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies of multiple *Psilocybe* genomes (four newly sequenced) revealed *Psilocybe fuscofulva* (a *Psilocybe sensu stricto* lineage) lacks the psilocybin gene cluster (PGC) and psilocybin. Analyzing 100 gene orthologs across the phylogenetic tree, the PGC emerged independently in two distinct Clades (I and II) around the Miocene epoch. This evolutionary biology suggests horizontal gene transfer, not a most recent common ancestor, drove this lineage's genetics, impacting Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Production of the psychoactive compound psilocybin is a defining feature of the genus Psilocybe , commonly referred to as “psychedelic mus...
Daily Administration of Psilocin Mucate (L-130) Produces a Favorable Safety Profile and Anxiolytic Effects in Rodents Exposed to Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – January 02, 2026
Summary
Daily dosing of a novel psilocin salt, L-130, significantly reduced anxiety behaviors, offering a promising anti-anxiety medicine. Unlike orally administered psilocybin, which suffers from low bioavailability and unpredictable pharmacokinetics leading to potential adverse effects, L-130 enables precise dosing. This pharmacology investigation, relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, confirmed L-130's safety. Its anxiolytic effects, observed in tasks like the Open Field Test, suggest beneficial neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, enhancing memory and neural mechanisms. While not for anesthesia, weekly dosing was ineffective.
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are chronic health conditions affecting the quality of life of millions of people. Psilocin, the active moiety of psilocybin, pro...
Perceptions of Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy and Standard Interventions for Nicotine Cessation
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – January 01, 2026
Summary
Credibility powerfully predicts daily nicotine users' willingness to engage with smoking cessation interventions, especially novel psychological support like psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy (β = 0.71). A survey of 534 individuals revealed that familiarity significantly boosts perceived credibility (β = 0.36 for psilocybin; β = 0.16 for standard pharmacotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy). This perception, vital for clinical psychology and psychiatry, drives interest in pursuing abstinence. Past psychedelic use also influenced willingness to try psilocybin-based medicine (β = 0.10).
Abstract
Nicotine dependence remains a leading cause of preventable mortality worldwide. Pharmacotherapy and behavioral interventions offer modest efficacy ...