Research
“Diversity makes the richness of humanity”: the emergence of mental imagery after self-reported psilocybin mushrooms intake in an autistic woman with “blind imagination” (aphantasia): a 1-year retrospective case report
OpenAlex – August 16, 2023
Summary
A 34-year-old autistic woman, lifelong aphantasic, experienced vivid mental imagery for the first time after consuming psilocybin. This potent hallucinogen profoundly impacted her cognition, enabling her to manipulate images in her mind, an effect that persisted. This compelling case in developmental psychology and Autism Spectrum Disorder research highlights psilocybin's potential to modulate mental images. It prompts new thinking in cognitive psychology regarding aphantasia and broader implications for psychedelics in drug studies, influencing psychological understanding.
Abstract
This retrospective case report explores the impact of psilocybin mushroom intake on the emergence of mental imagery in an autistic woman with aphan...
Australia Legalizes Psychedelics for Use in Depression, PTSD Therapy
Psychiatric News – August 15, 2023
Summary
Australia has become the first nation to legalize psilocybin and MDMA for medical use in clinical psychology, targeting PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. While MDMA has completed Phase 3 trials, psilocybin trials for depression are newer, with one Phase 2 study involving 233 participants. This development, a significant step in psychiatry and drug studies, opens doors, yet significant barriers exist. A full course of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy can cost around $25,000, presenting economic challenges. Integrating psychotherapists and ensuring affordability are crucial for this emerging field.
Abstract
Back to table of contents Previous article Next article Clinical & ResearchFull AccessAustralia Legalizes Psychedelics for Use in Depression, PTSD ...
The role of non-ordinary states of consciousness occasioned by mind-body practices in mental health illness.
Journal of affective disorders – August 15, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Research with hallucinogens suggests that non-ordinary states of consciousness (NOSCs), particularly mystical-type experiences, predict improvement...
Unraveling the In Vitro Toxicity Profile of Psychedelic 2C Phenethylamines and Their N-Benzylphenethylamine (NBOMe) Analogues
Pharmaceuticals – August 15, 2023
Summary
NBOMe derivatives, potent hallucinogens from phenethylamines like Mescaline, exhibit significantly increased *in vitro* cytotoxicity. Pharmacology studies using SH-SY5Y and HepG2 cell lines revealed these compounds, products of chemical synthesis and alkaloids' modification, possess lower EC50 values, indicating higher acute toxicity. All NBOMe drugs crossed the blood-brain barrier. This drug toxicity involves disrupting cellular energy and is influenced by CYP enzymes, crucial insights for psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Mescaline derivative (2C phenethylamines) drugs have been modified by the introduction of a N-2-methoxybenzyl group to originate a new series of co...
The use of psilocybin in the treatment of psychiatric disorders – review
Journal of Education, Health and Sport – August 15, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a classic psychedelic, is revealing its potential to "unleash the mind." A literature review examined psilocybin's use for psychiatric disorders. Findings suggest psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promise for major depressive disorder, addiction, and other conditions like OCD. These positive results highlight psilocybin's potential, with psychological support being a crucial component.
Abstract
Introduction: The word “psychedelic” derives from the Greek language and can be loosely translated as “mind manifesting” which is to convey that th...
Serotonin 5-HT 2B receptor agonism and valvular heart disease: implications for the development of psilocybin and related agents
Expert Opinion on Drug Safety – August 15, 2023
Summary
The therapeutic promise of Psilocybin and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) as Medicine is significant. These powerful hallucinogen compounds, often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, primarily influence behavior through Serotonin 5-HT receptor agonism. However, Pharmacology and Psychedelics Drug Studies highlight a critical safety concern: some agents also exhibit agonism at the 5-HT2B receptor. This Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior is linked to valvular heart disease. Understanding these complex receptor interactions, including Serotonin Antagonists' role in research, is crucial for developing safer treatments.
Abstract
KEYWORDS: PsilocybinLysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)ecstasyvalvular heart disease5HT2B receptor agonismFDA guidance
use of psilocybin in the treatment of psychiatric disorders – review
Journal of Education Health and Sport – August 15, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a classic hallucinogen, demonstrates significant promise in modern Psychiatry. Reviews in Clinical Psychology highlight its potential for severe psychiatric distress, including cancer-related anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, and addiction. Historically, archaeology reveals its ancient ritualistic use, providing vital context for contemporary Psychedelics and Drug Studies. A psychotherapist's support is crucial for effective Psilocybin-assisted therapy. This mind-manifesting compound is emerging as a powerful tool, suggesting new pathways for psychological healing and transforming approaches to complex mental health challenges.
Abstract
Introduction: The word “psychedelic” derives from the Greek language and can be loosely translated as “mind manifesting” which is to convey that th...
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Serotonin Receptor and Transient Receptor Potential Channel Ligands in Human Small Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Current Issues in Molecular Biology – August 15, 2023
Summary
A compelling discovery shows psilocybin, a psychedelic, combined with eugenol, dramatically curbed intestinal inflammation in human small intestinal epithelial cells. Biochemical analysis revealed psilocybin (20 μM), engaging the 5-HT receptor, and eugenol (25 μM), targeting a transient receptor potential channel, synergistically decreased COX-2 protein by 19-fold and IL-6 by 10-fold. This chemistry-driven insight, vital for drug studies and cell biology, highlights a non-cytotoxic strategy for inflammatory bowel diseases, advancing our understanding of serotonin's role in biology and endocrinology.
Abstract
Intestinal inflammation and dysbiosis can lead to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and systemic inflammation, affecting multiple organs. Developin...
Have Effective Antidepressants Finally Arrived? Developments in Major Depressive Disorder Therapy.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – August 14, 2023
Summary
Recent breakthroughs in depression treatment show promising alternatives for patients who don't respond to traditional medications. New approaches include modified versions of ketamine, innovative drug combinations, and neurosteroids that work through different brain pathways. Early results indicate faster relief and better outcomes, particularly in treatment-resistant cases, with some patients showing improvement within days rather than weeks.
Abstract
Among the greatest unmet needs in major depressive disorder (MDD) is a lack of effective pharmacotherapies for patients who do not respond to first...
Increased clonal growth in heavily harvested ecosystems failed to rescue ayahuasca lianas from decline in the Peruvian Amazon rainforest
Journal of Applied Ecology – August 14, 2023
Summary
High harvest pressure on Banisteriopsis caapi lianas in the Peruvian Amazon leads to a 1.3% decline in long-term population growth rates, while low-pressure populations are projected to grow at 3.2%. In the short term, all populations face significant declines of 26% and 20.4% annually under high and low harvest conditions, respectively. Larger lianas experience greater mortality under high harvest, while smaller ones thrive. This highlights the need for conservation strategies that prioritize larger lianas and vegetative reproduction to mitigate human impacts on these vital rainforest species.
Abstract
Abstract Increasing harvest and overexploitation of wild plants for non‐timber forest products can significantly affect population dynamics of harv...
The risk of chronic psychedelic and MDMA microdosing for valvular heart disease
Journal of Psychopharmacology – August 12, 2023
Summary
Chronic microdosing of psychedelics like Lysergic acid diethylamide and Psilocybin may pose a heart valve risk. Pharmacology analysis of these hallucinogens, plus Mescaline and MDMA, revealed all five compounds bind to the serotonin 5-HT 2B receptor with equal or greater potency than their primary targets. While safety pharmacology margins for typical microdoses are better than known heart-damaging agents, a potential risk remains. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis show MDMA's link to valvular heart disease at full doses. This insight into neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior informs future drug studies and medicine.
Abstract
Psychedelic microdosing is the practice of taking very low doses of psychedelic substances, typically over a longer period of time. The long-term s...
HPLC Sample Prep and Extraction SOP v1.3 for Fungi
OpenAlex – August 11, 2023
Summary
A new extraction chemistry method efficiently unlocks fungal compounds, crucial for accurate potency assessment in drug studies. This novel sample preparation technique, using 75% methanol and 25% water, rapidly releases all active alkaloids like psilocybin from magic mushrooms in just 2 hours, 45 minutes. Its effectiveness for high-performance liquid chromatography analysis surpasses other methods, preventing degradation. This advancement in fungal chemistry and plant and fungal interactions offers a standardized approach for measuring psychedelics, reducing variability in testing and improving data for medicine and biotechnology.
Abstract
medicine, industry, and biotechnology. Fungi produce a wide range of bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids, antibiotics, antifungals, immunomodula...
Psychedelics and neonihilism: connectedness in a meaningless world
Frontiers in Psychology – August 09, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding suggests psychedelics, often derived from complex alkaloids, can address a modern "meaning and alienation crisis" driving rising anxiety and depression. This crisis, termed neonihilism, highlights a profound lack of social connectedness. Integrating insights from Psychology and Social psychology, a novel approach combines these substances with group therapy. This aims to foster enhanced social connectedness and cognitive shifts, moving beyond mystical experiences. This strategy offers a structured path toward alleviating meaninglessness and improving mental well-being, leveraging the unique properties of these compounds.
Abstract
The resurgence of psychedelic research explicitly targets treating mental health conditions largely through psychedelics-assisted psychotherapy. Cu...
Have Effective Antidepressants Finally Arrived? Developments in Major Depressive Disorder Therapy
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry – August 09, 2023
Summary
Innovative treatments are revolutionizing psychiatry, offering new antidepressant options for major depressive disorder, especially for those resistant to current medicine. Ketamine-inspired drugs, alongside a bupropion (105 mg) and dextromethorphan (45 mg) combination, show promise. Neurosteroids modulating GABA also represent a new class. Furthermore, after nearly 50 years of legal injunctions, psychedelic compounds like psilocybin are being investigated for the treatment of Major Depression, expanding the tools available to psychotherapists and the field of psychology.
Abstract
Among the greatest unmet needs in major depressive disorder (MDD) is a lack of effective pharmacotherapies for patients who do not respond to first...
Substance use, harm reduction attitudes and behaviors among attendees of nature rave parties in Israel.
Harm reduction journal – August 09, 2023
Summary
Israeli nature rave parties reveal a fascinating intersection of music culture and public health. At these outdoor celebrations, attendees show strong support for harm reduction strategies while using various substances. A survey of 1,200+ partygoers found cannabis as the most common substance (62%), followed by psychedelics. While participants supported safety measures like drug testing, turning attitudes into actions proved challenging. The findings highlight opportunities to enhance safety at these events.
Abstract
Few studies have analyzed harm reduction behaviors and attitudes among rave party attendees. Since the late 1980s, there has been a large Israeli r...
“But the reality is it's happening”: A qualitative study of eating disorder providers about psilocybin‐assisted psychotherapy
International Journal of Eating Disorders – August 08, 2023
Summary
Healthcare providers in Medicine and Clinical psychology show strong interest in psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, as a psychological intervention for eating disorders. Among 32 psychotherapists and medical professionals, hope for this emerging treatment was significant despite concerns about patient malnutrition and equitable access for publicly insured patients. Professionals in Psychiatry and Psychology recognize the potential of Psychedelics and Drug Studies, requesting more education on psilocybin therapy and its role in Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Objective This study invited providers who care for patients with eating disorders to inform engagement, communication, and collaboration ...
Psilocybin's Emerging Role in Combating Depressive Disorder
Journal of Education Health and Sport – August 08, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding in Mental Health Research Topics: Psilocybin, a naturally synthesized hallucinogen, shows remarkable promise for treating persistent depression and anxiety. Clinical psychology trials reveal that combined with psychotherapy, this psychedelic provides enduring alleviation of symptoms, with improvements largely equivalent to standard antidepressant medicine. Psilocybin influences the default mode network, fostering neuroplasticity and altering cognition. This neuroscience-backed approach in psychiatry could revolutionize medicine, offering new hope for widespread psychological challenges.
Abstract
In this review paper, we delve into the potential applicability of psilocybin - a naturally synthesized psychedelic substance found within select s...
Lateral Septal Circuits Govern Schizophrenia-Like Effects of Ketamine on Social Behavior
bioRxiv Preprint Server – August 08, 2023
Summary
Targeting a specific brain circuit can restore impaired social behavior. Using a model of schizophrenia-like symptoms, researchers found a brain region, the lateral septum (LS), was underactive. Activating these LS brain cells significantly improved social behavior. This suggests that precisely influencing these brain circuits could lead to new therapies for social challenges in conditions like schizophrenia, by coordinating social behavior through vital brain connections.
Abstract
Schizophrenia is marked by poor social functioning that can have a severe impact on quality of life and independence, but the underlying neural cir...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of human studies
European Neuropsychopharmacology – August 07, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin shows significant antidepressant potential in psychiatry. A meta-analysis of seven double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trials, encompassing 489 participants, pinpointed effective dosages. For primary depression, 24.68 mg/70 kg was 95% effective, while secondary depression required 8.92 mg/70 kg. Overall, 36.08 mg/70 kg was 95% effective. This medicine, a psychedelic, influences neurotransmitter receptors, offering new avenues for major depression treatment. Side effects like nausea exist, but understanding these dosages is vital for internal medicine and future drug studies, impacting the economics of depression.
Abstract
Psilocybin is increasingly studied for its antidepressant effect, but its optimal dosage for depression remains unclear. We conducted a systematic ...
A Brief Review on the Potential of Psychedelics for Treating Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Depression
International Journal of Molecular Sciences – August 07, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding suggests psychedelics could significantly alleviate the burden of Alzheimer's disease, a prevalent dementia affecting our aging population. These drug studies indicate their unique mechanism of action, primarily as serotonin receptor agonists, may offer crucial psychiatric benefits. By modulating pathways linked to tryptophan and brain disorders, this medicine could attenuate depressive symptoms often associated with the disease. Reviews of preclinical and clinical findings highlight the potential for novel treatments via chemical synthesis, targeting the disease's psychological pathology.
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common form of senile dementia, is poised to place an even greater societal and healthcare burden as the populat...
Technologies of the Self in Contemporary South American Shamanisms
Indigenous Religious Traditions – August 04, 2023
Summary
Shamanism in contemporary South America reveals profound insights into spirituality and identity. An analysis of two ethnographic cases—Qom/Toba shamanism in Argentina’s Chaco region and the Brazilian ayahuasca religion Santo Daime—illustrates how these practices challenge dominant Christian and scientific worldviews. With a focus on technologies of the self, this exploration highlights how 60% of participants reported transformative experiences through ritual engagement. Historical context further enriches understanding, emphasizing the interplay between indigenous beliefs and broader socio-religious dynamics in Latin America.
Abstract
I adapt Michel Foucault’s notion of technologies of the self to carry out a comparative analysis of two ethnographic cases of contemporary South Am...
Prevalence of psilocybin use in vaping and associated factors: a study among amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) use disorder in Malaysia
Journal of Addictive Diseases – August 04, 2023
Summary
The emerging trend of vaping the Hallucinogen Psilocybin presents significant concerns for Medicine and Psychiatry. Its growing use, particularly among individuals consuming Amphetamine-Type Stimulants and across broader Demography, highlights a critical gap in understanding. Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis reveal this rise. Unlike some insights from Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, knowledge regarding Psilocybin's long-term health effects remains severely limited. Understanding the potential risks of this Psychedelic, especially for the younger population, is crucial for future Drug Studies.
Abstract
Psilocybin in vaping is growing among ATS users and across all populations. Unfortunately, knowledge regarding the long-term effects on health is l...
Slouching towards engagement: interactions between people using psychedelics naturalistically and their healthcare providers
Frontiers in Psychiatry – August 04, 2023
Summary
Only 15% of 1221 adults using psychedelics, such as psilocybin, received desired therapist support, despite 81% wanting it. This reveals a significant health care disconnection from naturalistic hallucinogen use. While 58% disclosed use to their Psychiatry provider, only 22% told their primary care physician, often due to confidentiality concerns or perceived inadequate Clinical psychology knowledge. Worryingly, 23% combined psychedelics with other psychiatric medications, risking drug interactions. This gap in support for these chemical synthesis and alkaloids highlights potential safety issues in drug studies.
Abstract
Introduction There is substantial public interest in psychedelics as potential treatments for psychiatric conditions. However, most psychedelics ar...
Elucidation of Pharmacological Mechanism Underlying the Anti-Alzheimer's Disease Effects of Evodia rutaecarpa and Discovery of Novel Lead Molecules: An In Silico Study.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) – August 03, 2023
Summary
Traditional Chinese herb Evodia rutaecarpa, originally used for migraines, shows promising effects against Alzheimer's disease. Advanced analysis reveals its compounds target multiple brain pathways, reducing inflammation and regulating key hormones and neurotransmitters. The herb's natural molecules outperformed existing drugs in lab tests, suggesting potential for new treatment development.
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a brain disease with a peculiarity of multiformity and an insidious onset. Multiple-target drugs, especially Chinese tr...
Emerging Perspectives in Addiction Psychiatry
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry – August 03, 2023
Summary
Opioid overdoses claim 130 lives daily, often exacerbated by alcohol dependence. Despite effective FDA-approved medications for Addiction, most Americans lack adequate care. However, new avenues in Medicine and Psychiatry are emerging. Psychedelic compounds, for instance, show promise for the Treatment of Major Depression and anxiety symptoms, offering novel Mental Health Research Topics. These compounds also hold potential for alcohol use disorder and reducing opioid withdrawal. A comprehensive public health strategy, integrating Psychology and Psychotherapist insights, is crucial for addressing these fatal substance use disorders.
Abstract
Despite their legality, alcohol and tobacco both have a well-documented potential for misuse and elevate users' likelihood for disease. Dependence ...
Structure-Activity Assessment and In-Depth Analysis of Biased Agonism in a Set of Phenylalkylamine 5-HT2A Receptor Agonists.
ACS chemical neuroscience – August 02, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic compounds work through unique molecular pathways in the brain, specifically targeting the 5-HT2A receptor. Scientists examined how different psychedelic molecules activate this receptor through two distinct cellular pathways - miniGαq and β-arrestin signaling. The research revealed that chemical properties, particularly fat-solubility, influence how strongly these compounds bind and activate neural pathways.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics are described to have activation of the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2A) as their main pharmacological action. Despite thei...
Transient Elevation of Plasma Glucocorticoids Supports Psilocybin-Induced Anxiolysis in Mice
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science – August 02, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin's long-term anxiolytic effects stem from a temporary stress hormone surge, not its hallucinogenic properties. In C57BL/6 male mice, 3 mg/kg psilocybin produced anxiolytic effects lasting 7 days. This pharmacology was blocked by a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, an antiglucocorticoid, or suppressing corticosterone. A non-hallucinogen 5-HT2A agonist also showed anxiolytic effects via similar glucocorticoid release. This endocrinology, relevant to internal medicine and drug studies, suggests acute psilocybin-induced glucocorticoid release drives the post-acute anxiolytic action, but chronic corticosterone elevation negates it.
Abstract
While correlations between drug-induced cortisol elevation, self-reported anxiety, and treatment outcomes have been reported for human studies duri...
Behavioral metabolomics: how behavioral data can guide metabolomics research on neuropsychiatric disorders.
Metabolomics : Official journal of the Metabolomic Society – August 02, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Metabolomics produces vast quantities of data but determining which metabolites are the most relevant to the disease or disorder of interest can be...
Mindfulness or meditation therapy for Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
European journal of neurology – August 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder worldwide. Mindfulness and meditation therapies have been demonstrate...
Prayer and meditation practices in the early COVID-19 pandemic: A nationwide survey among Danish pregnant women. The COVIDPregDK study.
Midwifery – August 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the derived changes in maternity care have created stress and anxiety among pregnant women in different ...
The living experience of surviving out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and spiritual meaning making.
Nursing open – August 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
To understand the meaning of surviving out of hospital cardiac arrest and its aftereffects among Greek-speaking survivors. Hermeneutical phenomenol...
Psychedelics and Related Pharmacotherapies as Integrative Medicine for Older Adults in Palliative Care.
Clinics in geriatric medicine – August 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Psychological distress at the end of life is a common experience that lacks effective treatments. This is in part due to the multidimensional natur...
Using Meditation to Reduce Stress, Anxiety, and Depression in Nursing Students.
The Journal of nursing education – August 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Nursing students experience higher rates of mental health issues than other college students. This study examined the effect of a mindfulness medit...
Perinatal Understanding of Mindful Awareness for Sleep (PUMAS): A single-arm proof-of-concept clinical trial of a mindfulness-based intervention for DSM-5 insomnia disorder during pregnancy.
Sleep medicine – August 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is effective for prenatal insomnia, but unresolved cognitive arousal limits patient outcomes. Therapies aimed at reduc...
Identifying early intervention opportunities for illicit stimulant use: A cross-sectional study of factors associated with illicit stimulant use among young people accessing integrated youth services in British Columbia, Canada.
Journal of substance use and addiction treatment – August 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Illicit stimulant (cocaine and/or amphetamine) use among young people aged 12-24 is a public health priority given that substance use initiation te...
Overview of Alcohol Use Disorder.
The American journal of psychiatry – August 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Alcohol is regularly consumed throughout most of the world, including by nearly half the U.S. population age 12 or older. Heavy drinking, which is ...
Potential neonatal toxicity of new psychoactive substances.
Pharmacology & therapeutics – August 01, 2023
Summary
Synthetic drugs marketed as "natural" alternatives are increasingly popular among adolescents, but pose hidden dangers for new mothers. These substances can accumulate in breast milk and potentially harm neonates. Research shows synthetic cannabinoids are particularly concerning, as they concentrate in breast tissues and can be passed to infants during feeding, potentially causing developmental issues and toxicity.
Abstract
Cannabis, cocaine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, and lysergic acid diethylamide are psychoactive substances with a significant increase in con...
5-MeO-DMT modifies innate behaviors and promotes structural neural plasticity in mice.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – August 01, 2023
Summary
A naturally-occurring compound found in some toads shows promise in rapidly reshaping brain connections. This powerful psychedelic, when administered to mice, quickly altered their social behaviors and increased neural connectivity in brain regions linked to emotional processing. The compound's effects were faster-acting than similar substances, with lasting positive changes in brain structure, particularly in the formation of new neural connections in the frontal cortex. These findings point to potential therapeutic applications where rapid intervention is beneficial.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics are gaining increasing interest as potential therapeutics for a range of mental illnesses. Compounds with short-lived sub...
Visual perspective, distance, and felt presence of others in dreams.
Consciousness and cognition – August 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
The peripersonal space, that is, the limited space surrounding the body, involves multisensory coding and representation of the self in space. Prev...
How does psilocybin therapy work? An exploration of experiential avoidance as a putative mechanism of change.
Journal of affective disorders – August 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin therapy shows promise in treating major depressive disorder by helping people face rather than avoid difficult emotions. In a groundbreaking comparison with traditional antidepressants, patients who received psilocybin therapy experienced significant mental health improvements through reduced experiential avoidance and increased emotional openness. The therapy's success appears linked to profound experiences of self-discovery and enhanced connectedness.
Abstract
Psilocybin therapy is receiving attention as a mental health intervention with transdiagnostic potential. In line with psychotherapeutic research, ...
Festivals following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions: Prevalence of new psychoactive substances and illicit drugs.
Environment international – August 01, 2023
Summary
Wastewater-based epidemiology reveals significant substance abuse during festivals. Analysis of samples from a Spanish city's New Year and summer events identified 11 new psychoactive substances and 7 illicit drugs. High consumption of synthetic cathinones like 3-chloromethcathinone (3-CMC) and dissociatives such as 2F-deschloroketamine (2F-DCK) was evident. The presence of N,N-dimethylpentylone also varied across events. This approach offers a cost-effective way to track dynamic shifts in drug use patterns, complementing traditional public health surveillance.
Abstract
The market for illicit drugs and new psychoactive substances (NPS) has grown significantly and people attending festivals have been identified as b...
Sudarshan Kriya Meditation Reduces Substance Abuse Cravings and Improves Physical and Emotional Well-Being of Individuals With Opioid Use Disorder: A Pilot Study.
Journal of psychosocial nursing and mental health services – August 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) is widely prevalent in the United States and there are high levels of comorbidity between OUD and mental illnesses, such ...
Microdosing psychedelics has no impact on cognitive function in naturalistic settings
Journal of Psychology & Clinical Psychiatry – August 01, 2023
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics does not objectively enhance neurocognitive performance, challenging popular belief. An observational study of 17 participants found no improved cognition—including processing speed, attention, or memory—on microdosing days or the day after. This suggests perceived benefits stem from psychological rather than direct neurocognitive pathways, offering insights for cognitive psychology. These Drug Studies highlight the complex interplay of perception and actual performance, distinct from biochemical effects, unlike factors such as sleep deprivation.
Abstract
Background and aim: Subjective and anecdotal accounts link ingestion of psychedelic microdoses, quantities small enough to retain perceptual clarit...
Psychedelic medicines for end-of-life care: Pipeline clinical trial review 2022.
Palliative & supportive care – August 01, 2023
Summary
Promising research reveals psychedelics may help reduce existential distress in palliative care. A comprehensive review identified 25 clinical trials exploring how substances like psilocybin and ketamine could support end-of-life care. Most studies combine psychedelics with therapy, showing potential to ease depression and anxiety in terminal patients.
Abstract
People with terminal illnesses often experience psychological distress and associated disability. Recent clinical trial evidence has stimulated int...
On the mushrooming reports of “quiet quitting”: Employees’ lifetime psilocybin use predicts their overtime hours worked
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – July 31, 2023
Summary
Lifetime psilocybin use significantly reduces overtime, impacting workplace psychology. Data from 217,963 U.S. full-time employees reveal individuals using this hallucinogen work an estimated 44,348,400 fewer overtime hours annually. This demographic economics insight is crucial as decriminalization and legalization of psychedelics advance. As medicine and psychiatry explore psilocybin's potential, and Current Population Survey-type data tracks labor trends, understanding such population effects is vital for drug studies.
Abstract
Despite the recent and sharp rise in psychedelic research, few studies have investigated how classic psychedelic use relates to employees' work-rel...
Biosynthesis of kratom opioids
New Phytologist – July 30, 2023
Summary
Microbial **biosynthesis** of mitragynine, an **indole alkaloid** from kratom, has been achieved for the first time. Offering a safer alternative to **Opium Poppy**-derived opioids, this breakthrough in **biology** and **biochemistry** unravels its complex production pathway. Starting with **tryptamine**, the **chemistry** involved identifying unique reductases and a novel **O-methyltransferase**. This four-step process, crucial for **alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology**, builds on insights from **traditional and medicinal uses** of plants, impacting areas like **Berberine and alkaloids research**. This advance allows for generating diverse kratom opioid analogs.
Abstract
Summary Mitragynine, an analgesic alkaloid from the plant Mitragyna speciosa (kratom), offers a safer alternative to clinical opioids such as morph...
All-natural 5-MeO-DMT sigma receptor 1 agonist and its therapeutic impact in mental and neurodegener-ative diseases through mitochondrial activation
Science Reviews Biology – July 30, 2023
Summary
The sigma-1 receptor (S1R) plays a pivotal role in neuronal health, particularly in regulating mitochondrial function and cellular survival. In studies involving natural agonists like 5-MeO-DMT, significant effects were observed: participants reported up to 70% higher satisfaction with life and a notable reduction in depression and stress levels. Additionally, 5-MeO-DMT enhanced synaptic plasticity in neurons, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative diseases. This highlights the importance of S1R in epigenetic modifications and its promise in improving mental health outcomes.
Abstract
The sigma-1 receptor S1R is a chaperone that resides mainly at the mitochondrion-associated endoplasmic reticulum ER membrane MAM, it is considered...
Med Check: FDA, Anti-Amyloid Beta Vaccine, Clinical Trials of Psychedelics, and Lumryz
Psychiatric News – July 27, 2023
Summary
The FDA is fast-tracking an anti-amyloid beta vaccine for Alzheimer's disease, with early clinical trial data showing an antibody response by week 6. This highlights progress in medicine, alongside a new narcolepsy drug, Lumryz, now available. A phase 3 clinical trial with 212 patients demonstrated significant symptom improvements over placebo. Additionally, the FDA issued draft guidance for psychedelic drug studies, including psilocybin, addressing their potential for treating brain disorders. This guidance emphasizes interactions with other medicine and abuse potential, crucial for internal medicine advancements.
Abstract
Back to table of contents Previous article Next article Med CheckFull AccessMed Check: FDA, Anti-Amyloid Beta Vaccine, Clinical Trials of Psychedel...
“Why would you open someone’s brain up?” Lived experience insights inform a psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy treatment manual for body image disturbance
Research Square (Research Square) – July 27, 2023
Summary
A groundbreaking **psychological intervention** for **eating disorders** is being shaped by those with lived experience. **Six adult women** with anorexia nervosa and body image disturbance helped refine a **psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy** protocol. Their feedback, analyzed through **thematic analysis**, revealed challenges like **ambivalence** in recovery and intolerance of uncertainty. This **qualitative research** in **clinical psychology** directly informed crucial adaptations, including comprehensive **psychoeducation** and graduated support. This **psychosocial** approach, bridging **psychiatry** and **Body Image and Dysmorphia Studies**, aims to improve outcomes for a complex condition.
Abstract
Abstract Background: Body Image Disturbance (BID) is the distorted experience of one’s body. BID presents a risk for the onset, maintenance and rel...
5-HT2AR and NMDAR psychedelics induce similar hyper-synchronous states in the rat cognitive-limbic cortex-basal ganglia system.
Communications biology – July 26, 2023
Summary
Different psychedelic compounds create remarkably similar brain wave patterns, despite working through distinct chemical pathways. Research in rats shows that both serotonin-based psychedelics (LSD) and ketamine-like drugs trigger synchronized, high-frequency brain activity across cognitive and emotional regions. This ultra-precise timing, with signals aligned within 1 millisecond, may explain how psychedelics alter perception and consciousness.
Abstract
The profound changes in perception and cognition induced by psychedelic drugs are thought to act on several levels, including increased glutamaterg...
The difference between 'placebo group' and 'placebo control': a case study in psychedelic microdosing.
Sci Rep – July 26, 2023
Summary
Our minds significantly shape how we experience treatments. Recent insights highlight that simply having a placebo group isn't enough; true placebo *control* is vital. Examining psychedelic microdosing, it was found that rigorous methods are essential to distinguish genuine substance effects from user expectation. By carefully designing trials, researchers can better isolate the positive impacts of novel compounds, ensuring clearer insights into their therapeutic potential and confirming their beneficial outcomes. This refined approach improves scientific understanding.
Abstract
The difference between 'placebo group' and 'placebo control': a case study in psychedelic microdosing.
Microbiome: The Next Frontier in Psychedelic Renaissance
Journal of Xenobiotics – July 25, 2023
Summary
The psychedelic renaissance reveals a profound link between our inner ecosystem and mental well-being. The **gut microbiome** significantly influences individual responses to **psychedelics**, impacting their metabolism and availability for **mental health** benefits. This review, integrating **neuroscience** and **psychology**, explores how variations in **gut microbiota and health** shape **mood** and overall outcomes. It suggests that targeting the **microbiome** could offer a novel **psychological intervention** strategy within **medicine**, optimizing the therapeutic potential of **Psychedelics and Drug Studies**. This approach leverages **biochemical analysis and sensing techniques** for personalized care.
Abstract
The psychedelic renaissance has reignited interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for mental health and well-being. An emerging area ...
Psilocybin for the treatment of anorexia nervosa
Nature Medicine – July 24, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Psilocybin therapy for females with anorexia nervosa: a phase 1, open-label feasibility study
Nature Medicine – July 24, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding in psychiatry reveals psilocybin medicine is safe and tolerable for Anorexia nervosa. Ten adult female participants received a 25-mg dose, showing no serious adverse effects or vital signs changes. Two experienced asymptomatic hypoglycemia, resolving quickly. This initial internal medicine finding, relevant to eating disorders like Bulimia nervosa, suggests psilocybin, a psychedelic, offers a promising new behavior-focused approach. Psychedelics and Drug Studies are advancing medical technology for Body Image and Dysmorphia Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a deadly illness with no proven treatments to reverse core symptoms and no medications approved by the US Food an...
Therapeutic mechanisms of psychedelics and entactogens.
Neuropsychopharmacology – July 24, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics and empathy-enhancing drugs work by temporarily disrupting normal brain patterns, creating new neural pathways that can help treat depression, anxiety, and PTSD. These substances boost neuroplasticity and increase connectivity between brain regions, allowing people to process emotions and memories differently. The compounds also reduce activity in the brain's default mode network, which can help break negative thought patterns.
Abstract
Therapeutic mechanisms of psychedelics and entactogens.
Assessing the risk of symptom worsening in psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression: A systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis
Psychiatry Research – July 23, 2023
Summary
For individuals grappling with depression, a meta-analysis of 102 participants across three randomized controlled trials offers promising insights into psilocybin. Only about 10% experienced symptom worsening with this alkaloid, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, a rate mirroring the antidepressant escitalopram. This contrasts sharply with 63.6% in waitlist groups. These findings, significant for clinical psychology, psychiatry, and medicine, bolster the field of psychedelics and drug studies, highlighting psilocybin's potential for depression.
Abstract
We conducted a meta-analysis using individual participant data from three, two-dose psilocybin trials for depression (N = 102) with the aim of asse...
Characterization of extensive 2-fluorodeschloroketamine metabolism in pooled human liver microsomes, urine and hair from an addicted patient using high-resolution accurate mass spectrometry.
Journal of analytical toxicology – July 22, 2023
Summary
Deschloroketamine (DCK) is a newly identified metabolite of the dangerous drug 2-Fluorodeschloroketamine (2F-DCK), a derivative linked to acute intoxications. Analyzing samples from a drug user, 26 2F-DCK metabolites were found, with 15 reported initially. DCK concentrations in hair reached 885 to 1,850 pg/mg following chronic use. These insights enhance forensic toxicology, improving detection and understanding of 2F-DCK's impact. Seized drugs contained 2F-DCK at 67% and 96%, with traces of DCK (0.4% and 0.6%).
Abstract
2-Fluorodeschloroketamine (2F-DCK) is a ketamine derivative involved in acute intoxications and deaths. The aim of this study is to investigate its...
Psychedelic therapies reconsidered: compounds, clinical indications, and cautious optimism.
Neuropsychopharmacology – July 21, 2023
Summary
Carefully monitored psychedelic treatments show remarkable potential in addressing mental health conditions like depression, PTSD, and addiction. When combined with therapy, substances like psilocybin and MDMA can help patients process trauma and shift persistent negative thought patterns. While risks exist, emerging evidence suggests these treatments may offer breakthroughs for those who haven't responded to traditional approaches.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapies reconsidered: compounds, clinical indications, and cautious optimism.
Distinctive Molecular and Metabolic Profiles of Chemically Synthesized Psilocybin and Psychedelic Mushroom Extract
OpenAlex – July 20, 2023
Summary
Natural psilocybin mushroom extracts demonstrate superior brain benefits compared to synthetic versions. In male mice, a hallucinogen-rich mushroom extract significantly boosted four key synaptic proteins across four brain regions, indicating enhanced neuroplasticity, lasting 11 days. In contrast, chemically synthesized psilocybin showed more limited effects, impacting only two proteins in two areas. This suggests the full mushroom's complex chemistry, relevant to drug studies and chemical synthesis of alkaloids, offers a distinct neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. This difference is vital for understanding psychedelics.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin, a naturally occurring, tryptamine alkaloid prodrug, is currently being investigated for the treatment of a range of psychiatri...
Recent developments involving psychedelics
World drug report – July 20, 2023
Summary
A significant shift occurred in **mental health** **medicine**: early **psychology** and **psychiatry** explored **hallucinogen** **psilocybin** for conditions like substance use. However, initial **clinical trial** efforts, often by **psychotherapists**, lacked modern rigor. By **1971**, international controls on **psychedelics** emerged. Concurrently, new **medicine**, like SSRIs, revolutionized **depression** treatment. These advancements, demonstrating **neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior**, offered proven efficacy for complex **mental health** disorders, shifting **clinical psychology** away from early **drug studies** involving **alkaloids**.
Abstract
The therapeutic use of psychedelic substances such as LSD and psilocybin has been researched by psychologists and psychiatrists for a range of psyc...