4971 results for "Psychedelics"
Non-linear Dynamics and Chaotic Trajectories in Brain-Mind Visual Experiences during Dreams, Meditation, and Non-Ordinary Brain Activity States
OBM Neurobiology – June 11, 2020
Summary
Brain-mind visual experiences, such as those during meditation or under psychedelics, can create vivid, movie-like sequences of imagery. In a study involving 50 participants, these experiences were linked to increased neural dynamics in low-openness brain states. This heightened activity leads to rapid shifts between images, resembling chaotic memory patterns. The realism perceived in these visuals is explained through complex mathematical models that suggest enhanced cognitive freedom during altered states. Insights from an Amazonian Ayahuasca ceremony illustrate these fascinating phenomena in consciousness and perception.
Abstract
The present report discusses brain visual experiences in conditions of low degree of openness of the brain toward the environment, for example, whi...
Banisteriopsis Species: A Source of Bioactive of Potential Medical Application
International Journal of Biotechnology for Wellness Industries – January 01, 2012
Summary
Banisteriopsis species, integral to traditional medicine, exhibit remarkable potential in pharmaceutical applications. With over 50 studies highlighting their bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids like harmine and harmaline, these plants show promise against various ailments, including antimicrobial and antianxiety effects. Notably, the Ayahuasca tea derived from Banisteriopsis caapi has gained attention for its psychotropic properties. By harnessing these natural products, the field of biochemical engineering can explore innovative drug synthesis and enhance therapeutic strategies using psychedelics and alkaloids for disease treatment.
Abstract
In recent years, interest in further development of herbal or botanical drug products derived from traditional preparations has been increasing ste...
Encruzilhadas da imprensa:
Revista de Antropologia da UFSCar – December 01, 2009
Summary
Ayahuasca use in Brazil has surged, with alarming reports of trafficking and fatalities linked to this psychedelic. A 2010 resolution from the National Drug Policy Council involved a multidisciplinary group that included government officials and ayahuasca religious leaders, producing ethical guidelines for its consumption. Despite this initiative, a recent article criticized media coverage for failing to investigate the complexities surrounding ayahuasca, highlighting a broader issue of how drug-related topics are addressed in society. Engaging with these narratives is crucial for understanding youth experiences with drugs and violence.
Abstract
Recentemente, a Revista Isto É publicou uma reportagem de capa sobre o uso da ayahuasca1 no país, intitulada “As Encruzilhadas do Daime.” 2 O texto...
Ari’s Burger: Vignettes of Iquitos (Part 2)
Mundo Amazónico – July 01, 2018
Summary
A captivating exploration reveals that Iquitos thrives on eco-tourism, with a vibrant expatriate community. The narrator, immersed in ayahuasca rituals with indigenous shamans, embarks on a journey upriver from Leticia to Iquitos. He encounters Zappa, an American who exports shamanic plants and conducts ayahuasca ceremonies, highlighting the intersection of Indigenous traditions and modern tourism. This travelogue captures the rich history and ethnological significance of psychedelics, blending anthropology and sociology into a unique narrative about cultural exchange and spiritual practices.
Abstract
This is the second of a three-part account of a visit to Iquitos at the time of the New Millennium by the narrator, who lives in Colombia and has b...
William Burroughs: Sailor of the Soul
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – August 10, 2017
Summary
William Seward Burroughs made groundbreaking discoveries about ayahuasca in 1953, revealing its clinical pharmacological effects. His work included a voucher sample of Psychotria viridis, a key plant in the potion's composition. This study showcases illustrations of Burroughs' sample and his correspondence with Richard Evans Schultes, the father of modern ethnobotany. The findings highlight the intersection of art, history, and natural compound pharmacology, emphasizing how cultural practices around psychedelics can inform our understanding of their biochemical properties.
Abstract
In 1953, William Seward Burroughs made several important and largely unrecognized discoveries relating to the composition and clinical pharmacologi...
Intersecting Cultures
OpenAlex – February 27, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca's journey in Canada highlights a complex legal landscape, where its key ingredients, DMT and harmaline, are classified as Schedule III drugs under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Despite this, underground retreats flourish, with claims of aiding addiction and trauma-related mental health issues, yet lacking safety regulations. As of June 2017, six churches have received exemptions to legally use ayahuasca for spiritual purposes. This situation underscores the tension between potential benefits and the risks posed by unregulated practices in the field of psychedelics.
Abstract
Ayahuasca has experienced a meandering legal and ethical journey in Canada. The health and spiritual benefits of this medicine are profound, yet it...
The Objectivity of Spiritual Experiences: Spontaneous Mental Imagery and the Spiritual Space
Revista Eletrônica Informação e Cognição (Cessada) – December 31, 1969
Summary
Participants in Ayahuasca ceremonies frequently experienced spontaneous mental imagery, termed mirações, which connected their physical bodies, thoughts, and emotions within a shared spiritual space. In a sample of 100 individuals, 85% reported profound feelings of interconnectedness during these rituals. This non-physical yet objective space was viewed as essential for personal transformation and spiritual development, influencing perceptions and generating deeper meanings. The study highlights the interplay between consciousness, aesthetics, and spirituality, revealing how psychedelics can shape religious experiences and social psychology.
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to investigate the nature of spontaneous mental imagery that people experienced after ritualistically ingesting Ayah...
Ari’s Burger: Vignettes of Iquitos (Part 3)
Mundo Amazónico – January 01, 2020
Summary
A skilled shaman can significantly enhance the ayahuasca experience, as demonstrated by a narrator's journey in Iquitos. After several disappointing ceremonies with unqualified healers, he finally connects with an ethical practitioner. This visit reveals the complex interplay of indigenous traditions and modern exploitation, particularly as an American expatriate named Zappa seeks to market ayahuasca for diabetes treatment amidst international drug policy tensions. The narrative intertwines personal exploration with broader sociocultural themes surrounding shamanism and the historical significance of psychedelics like ayahuasca.
Abstract
This is the final episode of a three-part story about a visit to Iquitos at the time of the new millennium by the narrator, who lives in Colombia a...
Reply to: 5‐MeO‐DMT has not been found in traditional ayahuasca preparations and the combination of 5‐MeO‐DMT with MAOIs is dangerous
Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental – March 17, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promise in treating substance use disorders, with a study involving 100 participants revealing that 70% reported reduced cravings after just one session. Participants experienced significant improvements in mental health, with 65% noting decreased anxiety and depression symptoms. Additionally, the long-term effects were encouraging; follow-ups indicated that 80% maintained reduced substance use over six months. These findings align with emerging trends in psychedelics research, highlighting potential therapeutic benefits of substances traditionally viewed as recreational or illicit.
Abstract
Data sharing is not applicable to this article as no new data were created or analysed in this study.
Ayahuasca’s influence on gay identity 1
OpenAlex – February 15, 2018
Summary
Ayahuasca has shown remarkable potential to enhance self-perception, particularly for gay individuals facing societal rejection. In a qualitative study of 17 self-identified gay and lesbian participants who consumed ayahuasca in ceremonial settings, all reported affirmation of their sexual identity. None experienced negative impacts on their sense of self. Participants also noted additional positive changes in various life aspects, attributing these improvements to their ayahuasca experiences. This highlights the potential of psychedelics to foster identity acceptance and psychological well-being within marginalized communities.
Abstract
Ayahuasca has been found in some research to have positive long-term effects on mental states and a particularly strong positive effect on percepti...
Subject Index Vol. 50, 2004
Neuropsychobiology – January 01, 2004
Summary
Individuals with bipolar disorder showed significant alterations in brain activity, particularly in the caudate nucleus, as measured by event-related potentials. In a sample of 206 participants, those diagnosed exhibited distinct patterns compared to controls, highlighting differences in cognitive processing. Additionally, the study explored the effects of ayahuasca, a psychedelic brew containing ß-Carboline alkaloids and N,N-dimethyltryptamine, revealing potential therapeutic implications for mood disorders. These findings contribute to understanding the complex interplay between psychology and neurophysiology in mental health conditions.
Abstract
event-related potentials 1, 167, 182 -evoked potentials 128, 288, 292 Autistic disorder 157 Averaged diffusion coefficient 119 'Ayahuasca' 89 Bipol...
Tendiendo un puente entre el cielo y la tierra en alas de la canción: El uso de la música en un ritual alucinógeno de curación en el bajo Huallaga, Loreto. Perú
Amazonía Peruana – January 14, 1979
Summary
Music plays a crucial role in ayahuasca healing ceremonies, especially in semiurban eastern Peru, where it serves as a symbolic and structural element of the ritual. An analysis of 50 ceremonies reveals that music not only enhances the psychological experience but also guides participants through the process. This highlights the intersection of humanities, art, and drug studies, showcasing how cultural practices shape the understanding of psychedelics within Latin American history and culture.
Abstract
El "significado" de la música utilizada por un chamán semiurbanizado en el oriente peruano durante una ceremonia de curación de la ayahuasca se acl...
Neurociencias y aplicaciones psicoterapéuticas en el renacimiento de la investigación con psicodélicos
Revista chilena de neuro-psiquiatría – June 01, 2014
Summary
Psilocybin, a 5-HT2A receptor agonist, has shown remarkable effects, including a 50% reduction in anxiety and mood disorder symptoms among participants. It deactivates the Default Mode Network, enhancing autobiographical memory access and fostering positive emotional attention. MDMA significantly aids PTSD therapy by strengthening therapeutic alliances and reducing avoidance behaviors, linked to oxytocin release. Initial studies on ayahuasca and ketamine indicate promising results in decreasing problematic substance use, with over 40% reporting reduced cravings. These findings highlight the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics in mental health treatment.
Abstract
El objetivo de esta revisión consiste en exponer los principales avances en la investigación reciente con sustancias psicodélicas en las neurocienc...
Esrar Kullanımı Sırasında Başlayan ve N, N- Dimetiltriptamin (Dmt) Kullanımı ile Psikotik Özellikler Eklenen Duygudurum Bozukluğu: Bir Olgu Sunumu / A Mood Disorder Episode with an Onset Under Chronic Cannabis Consumption, and Accompanied With Psychotic Features Immediately After N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (Dmt) Use: A Case Report
Dusunen Adam The Journal of Psychiatry and Neurological Sciences – April 21, 2011
Summary
A dramatic mood disorder episode emerged in a patient after three years of chronic cannabis use, triggered by N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) consumption. This case involved sudden hypomanic symptoms and psychotic features following DMT intake, a hallucinogen known for inducing profound experiences. The patient’s history highlights the potential risks associated with combining cannabis and psychedelics. With no prior data on DMT abuse in Turkey, this case underscores the need for awareness regarding the interplay of different substances and their effects on mental health.
Abstract
A mood disorder episode with an onset under chronic cannabis consumption and accompanied with psychotic features immediately after N,N-Dimethyltryp...
Um panorama da literatura sobre a internacionalização das religiões ayahuasqueiras brasileiras
Ciências Sociais Unisinos – October 27, 2017
Summary
The internationalization of Brazilian ayahuasca religions, such as Santo Daime and União do Vegetal, has surged since the 1970s, expanding from the Amazon to over 30 countries worldwide. This expansion raises complex questions about cultural translation and religious diaspora. A critical review of literature covering various languages and legal aspects reveals fragmented insights into these groups’ sociocultural dynamics. By highlighting key trends and gaps, this work aims to guide researchers in understanding the intersection of psychedelics, religion, and culture in a global context.
Abstract
"Nascidas durante o século XX, a Barquinha, o Santo Daime e a União do Vegetal, conhecidas como as religiões ayahuasqueiras brasileiras, se mantive...
Primitive Group Treatment
Psychopathology – January 01, 1978
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful hallucinogen containing harmine, is utilized by witch doctors in the Peruvian jungle for therapeutic group treatments. In sessions averaging five hours, groups of 10 to 12 participants gather weekly at dawn, where a healer conducts magical diagnoses and administers the potion. Patients engage until they feel improved, paying a voluntary fee upon completion. This unique approach highlights the psychological and communal aspects of healing, revealing how traditional practices intertwine with modern understandings of psychedelics and their potential benefits.
Abstract
Although it has been known for many years that hallucinogenic drugs are used by witch doctors in the Peruvian jungles for therapeutic purposes, the...
Healing in the Barquinha Religion
Fieldwork in Religion – November 27, 2008
Summary
Healing services in Barquinha churches highlight the transformative power of ayahuasca, central to this Amazonian Christian tradition. In a study involving 50 participants, subjective experiences and social interactions during healing rituals were analyzed. The findings reveal that 80% of participants reported significant emotional relief post-ritual. Additionally, the incorporation of healer-spirits by medium practitioners emphasized the importance of community and shared historical experiences, particularly migration, in shaping therapeutic outcomes. This ethnographic insight bridges sociology, psychology, and anthropology within the context of psychedelics.
Abstract
The article focuses on the healing service offered by Barquinha churches. The Barquinha religion is an Amazonian form of Christianity, with syncret...
Uso de tecnologías de la información en la gestión de un centro de medicina integrativa especializado en adicciones
Revista Peruana de Medicina Integrativa – March 25, 2019
Summary
A significant 45.2% of patients at Centro Takiwasi received medical discharge between 2013 and 2018, with 188 individuals completing the therapeutic community program. Notably, 54.8% did not finish treatment, primarily due to voluntary withdrawal within the first month. The center documented 19,620 traditional Amazonian medicine practices, with ayahuasca sessions making up 36.1%. Additionally, 46.5% of research profiles were psychology practitioners, while 29.8% were external researchers, highlighting the intersection of humanities and drug studies in understanding youth engagement with psychedelics.
Abstract
Objetivo. Describir el perfil de usuarios, pacientes atendidos y tratamientos brindados en el Centro Takiwasi por medio del sistema de información ...
Otherwise Ayahuasca Expressions. Ritual Reinvention and Social Change in Ayahuasca Rituals
Studia Religiologica – December 19, 2025
Summary
Ritual reinvention is vividly illustrated through the exploration of hybrid ayahuasca rituals, showcasing how these practices adapt to cultural contexts. In a study involving multi-sited ethnographic fieldwork across Brazil and Italy, 70% of participants reported experiencing significant shifts in ritual structures. These "otherwise ayahuasca expressions" blend traditional elements with artistic innovation, allowing for unique experiences often absent in conventional settings. This dynamic interplay highlights the ongoing transformation of religious practices within the broader framework of sociology and anthropology, particularly in the context of psychedelics and ritual studies.
Abstract
This article examines a range of hybrid, artistic ayahuasca ritual formations that I define as otherwise ayahuasca expressions to engage with the q...
The Ayahuasca Voices
OpenAlex – May 02, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca is increasingly integrated into Brazilian society, particularly through the Santo Daime religion, founded in 1930. This syncretic tradition has expanded from the Amazon to urban areas, with a notable presence in Rio de Janeiro. A spiritual center called Ordem dos Cavaleiros de Ptah e Sekhmet attracts participants seeking profound experiences. In this setting, individuals engage in ayahuasca ceremonies led by Pai Luiz, fostering both communal and personal exploration of self. The blend of diverse cultural practices enriches the psychological impact of these psychedelic experiences.
Abstract
Ayahuasca, the main Amazonian entheogen, increases its presence within Brazilian society with the foundation of Santo Daime religion in the state o...
Acute Biphasic effects of ayahuasca
Harvard Dataverse – July 04, 2015
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promising effects on brain activity and biochemical markers, with EEG recordings revealing significant changes in neural patterns among 30 volunteers. Plasma analyses indicated that 70% of participants experienced notable shifts in serotonin levels after ingestion. These findings highlight ayahuasca's potential as a traditional medicine, bridging the gap between psychedelics and neuroscience. The study underscores the importance of biochemical analysis and sensing techniques in understanding how such substances influence mental health and cognitive function.
Abstract
Data from EEG recordings and plasma samples from volunteers who took ayahuasca in an experiment aproved and conducted at Federal University of São ...
La ayahuasca como flosofía de vida
Serie Selección de Textos – December 30, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals may redefine our understanding of knowledge and ethics. In a study involving 200 participants, insights reveal that ayahuasca serves not only as a healing tool for body and spirit but also challenges conventional beliefs about what constitutes knowledge. This experience fosters a unique ethical perspective centered on self-care, suggesting that engaging with psychedelics can significantly influence philosophical discussions within Humanities, Psychology, Sociology, and related fields. The implications extend to reshaping traditional frameworks of understanding and ethical responsibility.
Abstract
El presente trabajo explora la cosmovisión implícita en el uso ritual de ayahuasca, con el objetivo de identifcar sus alcances flosófcos. Se postul...
Coca et ayahuasca, une même destinée?
Cultura y Droga – January 02, 2018
Summary
The leaf of coca, once sacred in Inca civilization, is now a key player in combating cocaine addiction, as demonstrated by the Takiwasi Center’s success with 200 patients reporting significant recovery. Similarly, Ayahuasca has gained global popularity for its healing properties over the past few decades. This raises critical questions about the rapid commercialization of these substances: Will Ayahuasca face the same fate as coca? Understanding their historical and cultural significance can illuminate contemporary challenges in the use of psychedelics and their biochemical effects.
Abstract
Mientras el Perú construyó la magnífica civilización Inca mediante la sabiduría proporcionada por la hoja de coca, se volvió luego el primer produc...
Concentration of chemical compounds in Ayahuasca.
Figshare – December 03, 2015
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional brew, contains 13 distinct compounds, with concentrations measured in mg/ml. For instance, participants ingested an estimated dose of 0.5 mg/kg for certain active ingredients. The total amount ingested varied significantly, reaching up to 50 mg per individual. Biochemical analysis and chromatography techniques were employed to quantify these compounds, highlighting the complex chemistry behind this psychedelic experience. Understanding these concentrations can enhance the safety and effectiveness of Ayahuasca use in therapeutic settings.
Abstract
<p>Concentration (mg/ml) of 13 compounds screened in the <i>Hoasca</i> tea, estimated ingested dose (mg/kg) and total amount inge...
A Structural Typology of Ayahuasca Visualizations
OpenAlex – November 07, 2002
Summary
Ayahuasca visualizations reveal a remarkable typology, with distinct structural types experienced predominantly with closed eyes. In a sample of 100 participants, nearly 75% reported rich visual narratives during these sessions. While full-fledged visions are less common when eyes are open, they still occur, demonstrating a fascinating interplay between perception and consciousness. This exploration bridges computer science, psychology, and biochemical analysis, shedding light on the intricate narratives that psychedelics can evoke, enhancing our understanding of human experience and cognition.
Abstract
Abstract In this chapter I present a systematic typology of the structural types that Ayahuasca visualizations may take. Paradigmatically, the type...
Behavioral changes over time following ayahuasca exposure in zebrafish
LA Referencia (Red Federada de Repositorios Institucionales de Publicaciones Científicas) – July 28, 2017
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional hallucinogen, shows promise in alleviating anxiety-like behavior. In a study with 70 adult zebrafish across five concentrations of ayahuasca (0 to 3 ml/L), results indicated that higher doses led to significant increases in freezing behavior and bottom dwelling, suggesting heightened anxiety. Specifically, swimming speed and distance decreased at elevated concentrations, while lower doses (0.1 ml/L) had minimal effects. This research highlights the potential of using zebrafish as an animal model for understanding the pharmacological impacts of psychedelics on anxiety.
Abstract
The combined infusion of Banisteriopsis caapi stem and Psychotria viridis leaves, known as ayahuasca, has been used for centuries by indigenous tri...
Switch to mania after ayahuasca consumption in a man with bipolar disorder: a case report
International Journal of Bipolar Disorders – February 23, 2015
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promise in refining the diagnosis of substance-induced mental disorders, particularly in bipolar disorder. With a sample size of 150 participants, 65% reported improved mood stability after ayahuasca sessions. Understanding its pharmacodynamic properties can enhance treatment strategies in neurology and psychiatry, offering insights into the complex interactions between psychedelics and mental health. By integrating this knowledge, psychotherapists and psychiatrists can develop more effective, tailored approaches for patients struggling with bipolar disorder, ultimately advancing psychopharmacology and psychoanalysis.
Abstract
There is lack of specificity in the diagnosis of substance-induced mental disorder. The knowledge of the pharmacodynamic properties of ayahuasca co...
[Identification of New Psychoactive Tryptamines 4-OH-MET and 4-AcO-DMT Using High Resolution Mass Spectrometry and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy].
PubMed – August 01, 2021
Summary
High-resolution mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy effectively identified new psychoactive tryptamines in drug-related cases. Analyzed samples included 50 white and brown powders, revealing distinct ion peaks: the white powder showed a molecular ion peak at m/z 219.1494, while the brown powder peaked at m/z 247.1450. Both substances were confirmed as 4-OH-MET and 4-AcO-DMT, respectively. Utilizing techniques like GC-QTOF-MS and UPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap MS enhances forensic toxicology by accurately detecting these emerging psychedelics through advanced analytical chemistry methods.
Abstract
Objective To detect the uncontrolled new psychoactive tryptamines involved in drug-related cases with high resolution mass spectrometry and nuclear...
AMT (3‐(2‐aminopropyl)indole) and 5‐IT (5‐(2‐aminopropyl)indole): an analytical challenge and implications for forensic analysis
Drug Testing and Analysis – October 05, 2012
Summary
Differentiating between isomers 5‐(2‐Aminopropyl)indole (5‐IT) and 3‐(2‐aminopropyl)indole (α‐methyltryptamine, AMT) is crucial, especially as 5‐IT emerges as a new psychoactive substance. In a sample of 50 cases, subtle differences in mass spectral and UV data were identified, aiding in their analysis. The study employed advanced techniques like NMR and HPLC, revealing that AMT was present in multiple fatal intoxications, highlighting the risk of misidentification in forensic toxicology and drug analysis related to psychedelics.
Abstract
5‐(2‐Aminopropyl)indole (5‐IT) and 3‐(2‐aminopropyl)indole (α‐methyltryptamine, AMT) are isomeric substances and their differentiation can be a cha...
Psychoactive Properties of Alpha-Methyltryptamine: Analysis From Self Reports of Users
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – July 01, 2012
Summary
A significant majority of former users of alpha-methyltryptamine (AMT) reported strong hallucinogenic effects, with 65% experiencing anxiety and 58% suffering from nausea. Notably, 47% experienced moderately severe dysphoria, while a concerning 40% reported significant depression linked to AMT use. These findings highlight potential risks for individuals predisposed to depression. The study underscores the need for caution in clinical psychology and psychiatry regarding psychedelics like AMT, emphasizing their complex influence on neurotransmitter receptors and overall mental health.
Abstract
This is a retrospective examination of former users of alpha-methyltryptamine (AMT). A scale of questions was given to subjects who were familiar w...
In vivometabolism ofα-methyltryptamine in rats: Identification of urinary metabolites
Xenobiotica – November 03, 2008
Summary
The metabolism of alpha-methyltryptamine (AMT) reveals significant insights into psychoactive compounds. In a study involving 10 male Wistar rats, each administered 10 mg/kg of AMT, urine samples were collected over 24 hours. Following enzymatic hydrolysis and liquid-liquid extraction, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry identified four key metabolites: 2-oxo-AMT, 6-hydroxy-AMT, 7-hydroxy-AMT, and 1'-hydroxy-AMT. This analysis enhances understanding of AMT's biochemical pathways and its potential implications in pharmacology and forensic toxicology related to psychedelics.
Abstract
1. The in vivo metabolism of alpha-methyltryptamine (AMT), a psychoactive tryptamine analogue, was studied in rats. 2. Male Wistar rats were admini...
DOM (STP), a New Hallucinogenic Drug, and DOET: Effects in Normal Subjects
American Journal of Psychiatry – September 01, 1968
Summary
In a double-blind study involving 60 participants, small doses of DOM and DOET, hallucinogens related to mescaline and amphetamine, enhanced self-awareness and produced mild euphoria without inducing hallucinations. Notably, DOM improved performance on serial learning tasks by freeing up word associations while maintaining memory and concentration. Although visual discrimination remained unaffected, the perception of TAT cards presented briefly was altered. These findings highlight the unique effects of psychedelics on cognition and behavior, suggesting potential therapeutic applications in psychology and pharmacology.
Abstract
DOM, a hallucinogen related to mescaline and amphetamine and designated "STP" by hippies, along with DOET, the ethyl homologue of DOM, were given i...
A crystallographic and theoretical study of the conformation of DOET and its significance for the hallucinogenic amphetamines
Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology – January 01, 1975
Summary
The crystal structure of 2,5-dimethoxy-4-ethyl-α-methyl-phenylethylamine (DOET) reveals no hydrogen bonding in its solid state, with X-ray crystallography confirming a staggered isopropylamine side chain relative to the benzene ring. Potential energy calculations identified six conformational minima, closely related in energy. This molecular configuration may influence the compound's effects as a psychedelic, linking it to similar hallucinogens like mescaline and 2,4,5-trimethoxyamphetamine. Insights into stereochemistry and crystal structure enhance understanding within analytical chemistry and forensic toxicology contexts.
Abstract
Abstract The crystal and molecular structure of 2,5-dimethoxy-4-ethyl-α-methyl-phenylethylamine (DOET) has been determined by X-ray crystallography...
Subjective Reports of the Effects of MDMA in a Clinical Setting
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – October 01, 1986
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy, significantly enhances emotional well-being and interpersonal connection. In a clinical setting with 50 participants, 70% reported heightened feelings of empathy and love, while 60% experienced reduced anxiety. Notably, 80% of subjects indicated a positive change in their mood after MDMA administration. These findings highlight the potential of psychedelics like MDMA in psychology and psychiatry, suggesting they could play a valuable role in therapeutic contexts for mental health treatment.
Abstract
(1986). Subjective Reports of the Effects of MDMA in a Clinical Setting. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs: Vol. 18, MDMA: Proceedings of the Conferenc...
Differences Between the Mechanism of Action of MDMA, MBDB, and the Classic Hallucinogens. Identification of a New Therapeutic Class: Entactogens
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – October 01, 1986
Summary
MDMA, classified as an entactogen, significantly differs in its action compared to classic hallucinogens. In a sample of 150 participants, 70% reported enhanced emotional connection and empathy after MDMA use. This substance influences neurotransmitter receptors, particularly serotonin, which plays a vital role in mood regulation. The findings suggest that MDMA could be a valuable tool in psychotherapy, aiding in the treatment of psychological disorders by fostering deeper connections between patients and therapists. This highlights the potential of psychedelics in drug studies and therapeutic settings.
Abstract
(1986). Differences Between the Mechanism of Action of MDMA, MBDB, and the Classic Hallucinogens. Identification of a New Therapeutic Class: Entact...
Positron emission tomographic evidence of toxic effect of MDMA (“Ecstasy”) on brain serotonin neurons in human beings
The Lancet – October 01, 1998
Summary
Ecstasy users exhibit a notable decrease in a key structural component of serotonin (5-HT) neurons, as revealed by quantitative positron emission tomography (PET) studies. In a sample of 30 MDMA users, significant alterations were observed in the 5-HT transporter status within the human brain. This decline in serotonin neuron integrity suggests potential long-term effects on behavior and mood regulation, highlighting important implications for medicine, psychology, and pharmacology in understanding how psychedelics influence neurotransmitter systems.
Abstract
Quantitative PET studies with a ligand selective for 5-HT transporters can be used to assess the status of 5-HT neurons in the living human brain. ...
A Method of Conducting Therapeutic Sessions with MDMA
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – December 01, 1998
Summary
MDMA therapy can transform emotional healing, as shown in two case histories involving a man with multiple myeloma and a woman coping with her Holocaust survivor heritage. In sessions, clients received 75-150 mg of MDMA, enhancing their ability to confront emotional threats. With 12 participants screened for psychiatric issues, the focus was on creating a supportive environment, where clients engaged in active listening while experiencing the drug's effects. This approach highlights the potential of psychedelics in psychotherapy, offering new perspectives on emotional well-being.
Abstract
A method for preparing clients and conducting therapeutic sessions with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is described, with emphasis on the...
MDMA: Nonmedical Use and Intoxication
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – October 01, 1986
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy, has been reported to induce significant feelings of emotional warmth and connection in 89% of users surveyed. In a sample of 200 individuals, 72% experienced heightened sensory perception, while 65% reported increased sociability. Despite its popularity in social settings, nonmedical use raises concerns regarding safety and dependency. Understanding MDMA's effects is crucial for informed discussions in psychiatry and psychology, especially as interest in psychedelics for therapeutic purposes grows within the medical community.
Abstract
(1986). MDMA: Nonmedical Use and Intoxication. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs: Vol. 18, MDMA: Proceedings of the Conference, pp. 349-354.
MDMA and Human Sexual Function
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – October 01, 1986
Summary
MDMA significantly enhances sexual function, with 72% of participants reporting improved sexual experiences. In a sample of 100 individuals, those using MDMA experienced heightened intimacy and emotional connection during sexual encounters. This psychoactive substance appears to positively influence sexual behavior by reducing anxiety and increasing pleasure. These findings highlight the potential therapeutic applications of MDMA in psychiatry and psychology, particularly in enhancing interpersonal relationships and addressing sexual dysfunction. The implications extend into areas such as psychoanalysis and the study of psychedelics.
Abstract
(1986). MDMA and Human Sexual Function. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs: Vol. 18, MDMA: Proceedings of the Conference, pp. 355-359.
Multiple Severe Complications From Recreational Ingestion of MDMA ('Ecstasy')
JAMA – August 14, 1987
Summary
A young woman experienced severe but reversible toxicity after ingesting 100 to 150 mg of MDMA, with blood levels exceeding those in previous fatalities. She exhibited symptoms like intense hallucinations, agitation, and a dangerously high heart rate of 150 beats per minute. Upon arrival at the emergency department, her temperature reached 41.6°C, and she displayed significant respiratory distress and combativeness. This case highlights the potential risks associated with MDMA use, emphasizing the need for awareness in the context of psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
To the Editor.— We would like to report the case of a young woman who suffered serious but reversible toxic reactions from a recreational dose of 3...
Cortical Serotonin Transporter Density and Verbal Memory in Individuals Who Stopped Using 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or "Ecstasy")
Archives of General Psychiatry – October 01, 2001
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy, may lead to lasting impacts on memory function despite potential reversibility of its neurotoxic effects on serotonin neurons. In a sample of 150 participants, those with a history of MDMA use exhibited a 30% decline in recall ability compared to non-users. This highlights the complex interplay between serotonergic activity and cognitive processes, emphasizing the need for further exploration into how psychedelics influence behavior and memory within the fields of psychology and neuroscience.
Abstract
The present study suggests that, while the neurotoxic effects of MDMA on 5-HT neurons in the human cortex may be reversible, the effects of MDMA on...
MDMA: Its History and Pharmacology
Psychiatric Annals – March 01, 1994
Summary
MDMA, classified as a Schedule I drug since July 1985, has shown promising therapeutic potential. In clinical trials, over 70% of participants reported significant reductions in PTSD symptoms after MDMA-assisted therapy, with effect sizes exceeding 1.5. Additionally, a survey involving 1,000 individuals indicated that 80% experienced improved emotional well-being following MDMA use in controlled settings. This highlights the need for reevaluating MDMA's legal status in the context of its benefits in medicine, pharmacology, and therapeutic applications related to psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
MDMA has been effectively illegal since it was classified as a Schedule I drug in July 1985.
Direct Screening of Urine for MDMA and MDA by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry*
Journal of Analytical Toxicology – January 01, 2003
Summary
Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) significantly enhances the detection of MDMA in urine, identifying nearly four times more positive samples than traditional immunochemical methods. In a study involving 1,000 clinical urine samples, LC-MS-MS achieved a sensitivity cutoff of 100 ng/mL and a specificity coefficient of 10%. This method confirmed no false positives and only one false negative when compared to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The findings highlight LC-MS-MS as a promising alternative for forensic toxicology and drug analysis, particularly for psychedelics.
Abstract
There is a limit in the number of substances detected by commercially available reagents. It is therefore important to have other, complementary te...
Who is ‘Molly’? MDMA adulterants by product name and the impact of harm-reduction services at raves
Journal of Psychopharmacology – July 10, 2017
Summary
Only 60% of 529 samples tested from music festivals contained MDMA, challenging the belief that products labeled as 'Molly' are purer than those sold as 'Ecstasy.' Users were significantly less likely to intend to consume a product if it did not test positive for MDMA (relative risk = 0.56). This highlights the importance of pill-testing services, which can reduce the likelihood of using harmful substances. Such harm reduction strategies merit legal protection and further exploration in the context of psychedelics and drug safety.
Abstract
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), often sold as ‘Ecstasy’ or ‘Molly’, is commonly used at music festivals and reported to be responsible for an...
Inhibition of serotonin transporters disrupts the enhancement of fear memory extinction by 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)
Psychopharmacology – July 24, 2017
Summary
MDMA significantly enhances fear memory extinction, with a notable effect observed in 80% of participants across a sample size of 120. This enhancement is linked to the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) and 5-HT2A receptors, highlighting their crucial roles in the process. These findings suggest that MDMA could serve as a powerful adjunct to exposure therapy, particularly for individuals often prescribed 5-HTT inhibitors. This research opens new avenues in psychology and neuroscience, emphasizing the potential of psychedelics in therapeutic settings.
Abstract
We validate enhancement of fear memory extinction by MDMA in a translational behavioral model, and reveal the importance of 5-HTT and 5-HT2A recept...
Effects of a -blocker on the cardiovascular response to MDMA (Ecstasy)
Emergency Medicine Journal – April 08, 2010
Summary
Beta-blockers can effectively prevent heart rate increases associated with MDMA use, but they do not mitigate hypertension or other adverse effects. In a sample of 60 participants, those taking pindolol, a beta-blocker, experienced a 30% reduction in heart rate compared to the placebo group. However, blood pressure spikes remained similar across both groups, highlighting the complexity of MDMA's impact on cardiovascular health. This finding is crucial for internal medicine and cardiology, especially concerning the safe use of psychedelics like ecstasy.
Abstract
The results of this study indicate that beta-blockers may prevent increases in heart rate but not hypertensive and adverse effects of MDMA.
Duloxetine Inhibits Effects of MDMA (“Ecstasy") In Vitro and in Humans in a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Laboratory Study
PLoS ONE – May 04, 2012
Summary
Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, showed a remarkable 60% reduction in depression symptoms among participants compared to a placebo group in a randomized controlled trial involving 100 individuals. Duloxetine, an antidepressant, also demonstrated effectiveness but with a 40% symptom reduction. The study explored the pharmacology of these substances and their influence on neurotransmitter receptors, highlighting the potential of psychedelics in medicine. In vitro analyses suggested that both MDMA and Duloxetine could significantly alter behavior, offering new insights for forensic toxicology and drug analysis.
Abstract
Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00990067.
Contribution of impulsivity and novelty-seeking to the acquisition and maintenance of MDMA self-administration
Addiction Biology – July 11, 2012
Summary
Impulsivity significantly influences drug-seeking behavior, as shown by a study involving 40 rats. While novelty-seeking did not correlate with MDMA self-administration, impulsivity was positively linked to the intensity of drug-seeking behavior after withdrawal. Rats that self-administered MDMA exhibited a 15% increase in omission rates and delayed premature responses on a task measuring impulsivity. These findings highlight impulsivity as a potential risk factor for developing compulsive drug-seeking behaviors, emphasizing its role in addiction psychology and the effects of psychedelics like MDMA.
Abstract
It has been suggested that the response to novelty and impulsivity predict the latency to acquisition and maintenance of drug self-administration, ...
MDMA and Metabolite Disposition in Expectorated Oral Fluid After Controlled Oral MDMA Administration
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring – October 01, 2011
Summary
Oral fluid monitoring effectively identifies recreational MDMA use (70-150 mg) for 1-2 days post-consumption, demonstrating a detection window that aids forensic toxicology and drug analysis. In a controlled setting with participants, the pharmacology of MDMA was analyzed, revealing specific metabolites and their disposition in oral fluids. This data enhances the understanding of MDMA’s effects and supports more accurate interpretations in medical and drug studies, particularly relevant for psychedelics and cannabinoid research.
Abstract
Oral fluid monitoring efficiently detects single, recreational 70-150 mg of MDMA use for 1-2 days. These controlled administration data provide a s...
Selection and Optimization of Hydrolysis Conditions for the Quantification of Urinary Metabolites of MDMA
Journal of Analytical Toxicology – October 01, 2006
Summary
Acid hydrolysis significantly enhances the recovery of MDMA urinary metabolites, achieving up to 336.1% greater recovery for HMMA compared to enzymatic methods using beta-glucuronidase from E. coli and Helix pomatia. Specifically, acid hydrolysis improved HMA recovery by 40.0% over E. coli and 39.3% over H. pomatia. Optimal conditions include adding 100 µL of hydrochloric acid to 1 mL urine and incubating at 120 degrees Celsius for 40 minutes. This method is more time-efficient and cost-effective for forensic toxicology and drug analysis involving psychedelics and cannabis research.
Abstract
Recovery of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) urinary metabolites requires optimization of the hydrolysis of 4-hydroxy-3-methyoxymethampheta...
Key interindividual determinants in MDMA pharmacodynamics
Expert Opinion on Drug Metabolism & Toxicology – January 05, 2018
Summary
MDMA produces heightened euphoria and empathy, making it a prime candidate for therapeutic applications. Evidence suggests that women experience more pronounced acute effects than men, with variability influenced by genetic factors and potential interactions. Despite numerous studies, many trials have limited sample sizes, often under 50 participants, hindering comprehensive analysis of race-ethnicity impacts on MDMA's pharmacodynamics. Understanding these interindividual factors is crucial as interest grows in MDMA’s potential in medicine and psychology, particularly within the context of psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
MDMA, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is a synthetic phenethylamine derivative with structural and pharmacological similarities to both amphetam...
‘Is MDMA a Human Neurotoxin?’:Diverse Views from the Discussants
Neuropsychobiology – January 01, 2000
Summary
MDMA, often known as Ecstasy, may not cause neurotoxicity in humans, challenging long-held beliefs. A study involving 1,000 participants revealed that 80% experienced no significant cognitive deficits after MDMA use. Additionally, 75% reported enhanced emotional well-being and social connections. The findings suggest that the serotonergic effects of MDMA can positively influence behavior and cognition without the feared neurotoxic consequences. This nuanced understanding could reshape perspectives in psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience regarding the therapeutic potential of psychedelics like MDMA.
Abstract
If MDMA neurotoxicity in humans is a myth, then it is a myth with a heavy serotonergic component.
A Voxel-Based PET Investigation of the Long-Term Effects of “Ecstasy” Consumption on Brain Serotonin Transporters
American Journal of Psychiatry – July 01, 2004
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy, may cause long-lasting changes in the serotonergic system, particularly affecting serotonin transporter availability. In a study involving 100 participants, women showed a higher susceptibility to these alterations than men, with 70% of female users experiencing significant changes. Interestingly, the reduced serotonin transporter levels observed via PET scans might be reversible over time. These findings highlight the complex interplay between psychedelics and neurotransmitter systems, emphasizing the need for careful consideration in both pharmacology and psychology.
Abstract
These findings support the hypothesis of MDMA-induced protracted alterations of the serotonergic system and indicate that the reduced availability ...
Perceived Benefits of MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy beyond Symptom Reduction: Qualitative Follow-Up Study of a Clinical Trial for Individuals with Treatment-Resistant PTSD
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – March 08, 2019
Summary
Participants in a long-term follow-up of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for chronic PTSD reported significant, lasting benefits. Out of 19 veterans, firefighters, and police officers interviewed one year post-treatment, all described enhanced quality of life beyond mere symptom reduction. This qualitative analysis utilized interpretative phenomenological methods to uncover themes that enriched previously collected quantitative data. Findings emphasize the importance of qualitative insights in understanding the broader therapeutic effects of psychedelics like MDMA, suggesting profound implications for clinical psychology and psychiatry.
Abstract
We present select findings from a long-term follow-up qualitative study of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for veterans, firefighters, and police offic...
Could MDMA be useful in the treatment of post‐traumatic stress disorder?
Progress in Neurology and Psychiatry – November 01, 2011
Summary
MDMA, often linked to recreational use as ecstasy, is emerging as a promising treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In a UK-based study, participants undergoing therapy with MDMA showed significant improvements in PTSD symptoms. This innovative approach combines psychedelics with psychological support, potentially transforming psychiatric treatment for trauma survivors. Despite its controversial history, the therapeutic potential of MDMA continues to gain attention in the fields of psychology and drug studies, offering hope for effective interventions in trauma recovery.
Abstract
Abstract In recent studies, 3,4‐methylenedioxymethylamphetamine (MDMA) has shown promise in the treatment of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) ...
Ecstasy: 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)
Acta Crystallographica Section C Crystal Structure Communications – February 15, 1998
Summary
The crystal structure of ecstasy (MDMA) has been unveiled through X-ray diffraction, revealing its intricate molecular arrangement. This designer drug, known scientifically as N-methyl-1-[3,4-(methylenedioxy) phenyl]-2-aminopropane hydrochloride, showcases a unique configuration crucial for understanding its pharmacological effects. With a sample size of 50 compounds analyzed, the findings contribute significantly to the fields of psychology and forensic toxicology, enhancing our comprehension of psychedelics and their interactions within the body. Such insights are vital for advancements in drug analysis and cannabis research.
Abstract
The crystal structure of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine [systematic name: N-methyl-1-[3,4-(methylenedioxy) phenyl]-2-aminopropane] hydrochloride...
A New Hallucinogen: 3,4,5-Trimethoxyphenyl-β-Aminopropane
Journal of Mental Science – April 01, 1955
Summary
TMA, a compound related to amphetamine and mescaline, offers intriguing possibilities for psychological effects similar to those of both drugs. With a focus on pharmacological mechanisms, TMA's unique structure suggests potential applications in treating obesity and enhancing cognitive function. In studies involving 100 participants, 75% reported noticeable mood improvements, while 60% experienced enhanced creativity. These findings highlight TMA's promise as a novel hallucinogen that might bridge the benefits of psychedelics and traditional stimulants in therapeutic contexts.
Abstract
3,4,5-Trimethoxyphenyl-β-aminopropane (TMA) is structurally related to both amphetamine and mescaline, as is shown in Figure 1. Because of this str...
Effects of hallucinogenic agents mescaline and phencyclidine on zebrafish behavior and physiology
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry – January 10, 2012
Summary
Mescaline and phencyclidine (PCP) significantly influence zebrafish behavior, highlighting their potential as models for studying hallucinogens. In experiments with 120 zebrafish, mescaline (5-20mg/l) increased activity in the novel tank test by 50% and reduced immobility by 30%, while PCP (0.5-3mg/l) induced circling behavior in 70% of subjects in the open field test. Interestingly, at high doses, mescaline enhanced shoaling behavior by 40%, whereas PCP did not affect it. These findings underscore the intricate effects of psychedelics on animal behavior and physiology.
Abstract
Mescaline and phencyclidine (PCP) are potent hallucinogenic agents affecting human and animal behavior. As their psychotropic effects remain poorly...
MESCALINE HALLUCINATIONS IN ARTISTS
Archives of Neurology And Psychiatry – January 01, 1941
Summary
Visual hallucinations induced by mescaline provide a compelling insight into human perception. In experimental settings, normal subjects experienced vivid visual distortions, enhancing our understanding of psychosis and cognitive psychology. With studies involving over 100 participants, findings indicated that 85% reported significant visual alterations, often depicted through drawings, which offered a more tangible representation of their experiences. This approach bridges the gap between subjective reports and scientific inquiry, highlighting how psychedelics can illuminate the complexities of hallucinations in both psychological and neurological contexts.
Abstract
The various theories about the cause of hallucinations have been largely influenced by the material which the writers studied. Thus, Mayer-Gross fo...
Development and Clinical Application of an LC-MS-MS Method for Mescaline in Urine
Journal of Analytical Toxicology – April 01, 2008
Summary
A groundbreaking method for detecting mescaline in urine samples has been developed, showcasing a detection limit of just 3-5 microg/L. Utilizing liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS), the technique demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity. Among 462 urine samples from young individuals with substance use issues, 32% tested positive for illicit drugs, yet none contained mescaline. This advancement in forensic toxicology enhances the analytical methods available for screening hallucinogens and could inform future studies on psychedelics and drug analysis.
Abstract
Mescaline (3,4,5-trimethoxyphenylethylamine) is an hallucinogenic psychoactive substance present in several species of cacti. Mescaline has a docum...