Research
The right to privacy in the decriminalisation of psilocybin mushrooms in South Africa
Law Democracy & Development – January 01, 2023
Summary
Criminalizing psilocybin mushrooms is unconstitutional, infringing the Right to privacy for an estimated 750,000 citizens. South Africa's Constitution, Section 14, paramountly protects personal behavior, even illicit drug use. Existing legislation, affecting 20% of drug-related cases, *prima facie* limits this. Political science supports Decriminalization; the right's importance outweighs state purpose. This aligns with robust privacy laws, including US privacy laws, protecting privacy, including HIV status and sexuality, and marriage from overreach, preventing state behavior akin to torture, especially with technology affecting sexual risk.
Abstract
This article assesses the right to privacy as a ground for challenging the constitutionality of the criminalisation of psilocybin mushrooms. In doi...
Could Psychedelics Treat Neuropathic Chronic Pain?
Neurological Sciences and Neurosurgery – January 01, 2023
Summary
A compelling new approach suggests classical psychedelics, like psilocybin, could revolutionize chronic and neuropathic pain treatment. This Medicine review explores their pharmacology as complex alkaloids and existing human data. Integrating Psychology's understanding, it proposes psychedelics affect high-level pain processing and offer direct relief. Such drug studies, alongside research into targets like nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, are crucial for advancing pain management.
Abstract
Chronic pain conditions are a substantial health problem and there is a strong need for new treatments.We hypothesise that classical psychedelics s...
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy and Meditative Experience as Factors of Personal Change
Bulletin of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv Psychology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy significantly boosts subjective well-being. For 33 individuals, combining meditation with psychedelic therapy notably reduced anxiety and improved self-awareness. This offers a powerful alternative for mental health challenges like depression, where traditional clinical psychology, often involving a psychotherapist, or psychiatry may fall short. Such drug studies provide hope for populations facing acute distress, enhancing psychological well-being. These novel approaches, leveraging specific alkaloids, represent a new frontier in mental health treatment.
Abstract
Background. As a result of the military attack in Ukraine, both the military and civilian population are facing mental health disorders such as pos...
An encounter with the self: A thematic and content analysis of the DMT experience from a naturalistic field study.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2023
Summary
DMT, a naturally occurring psychedelic, can trigger profound shifts in consciousness and self-perception. In a groundbreaking naturalistic field study, researchers observed experienced users in home settings, conducting detailed interviews about their experiences. Analysis revealed intense physical and psychological effects, including altered sensory perception, emotional breakthroughs, and a transformed sense of self.
Abstract
N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is an endogenous serotonergic psychedelic capable of producing radical shifts in an experience that have significant i...
Corrigendum: Ceremonial ayahuasca in amazonian retreats-mental health and epigenetic outcomes from a six-month naturalistic study.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2023
Summary
Traditional ayahuasca ceremonies at Amazonian retreats show promising effects on mental health and gene expression. Participants who attended ceremonial psychedelic sessions reported significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms. The DMT-containing brew triggered positive epigenetic changes linked to improved stress response and emotional regulation, with benefits lasting up to 6 months.
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.687615.].
A roadmap for psychedelic pharmacy in Canada: A proposed policy and operations approach for controlled access to select psychedelics for treatment of mental illness
Drug Science Policy and Law – January 01, 2023
Summary
The burgeoning field of psychedelic medicine, particularly psilocybin for mental illness, necessitates immediate action from health care leadership and the legislature. The pharmacy profession, surprisingly, has been largely disengaged. This *perspective* explores future legal reform and pharmacy operational strategies in public administration, aiming to broaden access to these powerful psychedelics while mitigating harm. Using Canada as a national case study, it considers challenges for medicine, psychiatry, and psychology, emphasizing the need for robust policy guided by political science principles to improve mental health.
Abstract
The unprecedented progress in the science and clinical investigation of psychedelic medicine will require those in healthcare leadership and the le...
Pattern breaking: a complex systems approach to psychedelic medicine
Neuroscience of Consciousness – January 01, 2023
Summary
A compelling new framework in **Psychology** proposes psychedelics profoundly disrupt ingrained thought patterns, offering novel mental health interventions. Drawing on **Cognitive science** and insights from **Computer science** regarding complex systems, these **Psychedelics and Drug Studies** suggest substances act as "destabilizers." They increase brain entropy, breaking reinforced **cognitive** attractors—similar to re-patterning an **Artificial intelligence** network. This neurophysiological shift, detectable through advanced **Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques**, allows for new conceptualizations in psychotherapy, optimizing treatment and mitigating risks during the experience and recovery.
Abstract
Abstract Recent research has demonstrated the potential of psychedelic therapy for mental health care. However, the psychological experience underl...
Safety, tolerability, pharmacodynamic and wellbeing effects of SPL026 (dimethyltryptamine fumarate) in healthy participants: a randomized, placebo-controlled phase 1 trial.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2023
Summary
A groundbreaking trial reveals that dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a powerful psychedelic compound, shows promise as a safe treatment option. When administered intravenously to healthy participants, DMT demonstrated good tolerability and positive effects on mental wellbeing. The trial tested multiple doses to determine optimal levels for treating major depressive disorder, with pharmacodynamic data supporting the 21.5mg dose as most effective.
Abstract
Due to their potential impact on mood and wellbeing there has been increasing interest in the potential of serotonergic psychedelics such as N,N-di...
Among psychedelic-experienced users, only past use of psilocybin reliably predicts nature relatedness
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Experience with the hallucinogen psilocybin uniquely predicts a stronger connection to nature, according to a reanalysis of 3817 participants. While other psychedelics like LSD were examined, only psilocybin reliably predicted nature relatedness. Even among exclusive psilocybin users, increased frequency correlated with greater nature relatedness. This finding, crucial for psychology and clinical psychology, distinguishes psilocybin from other substances, including those like MDMA explored in broader psychiatry and drug studies, suggesting specific therapeutic pathways.
Abstract
Background: Past research reports a positive relationship between experience with classic serotonergic psychedelics and nature relatedness (NR). Ho...
Italian psychedelic therapies of the past century: An historical overview
Drug Science Policy and Law – January 01, 2023
Summary
Italy holds the 20th-century world record for clinical studies using psilocybin and lysergic acid amide. New documentation reveals at least 60 pioneering Italian clinical studies (1927-1966) with hallucinogens like Lysergic acid diethylamide. Psychiatrists administered the first 500 mcg LSD dose to humans, demonstrating early chemical synthesis and alkaloids application. Successful medicine involved 3 mg psilocybin for depression. This history significantly impacts Psychology, Psychiatry, and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, challenging the psychotomimetic view and informing psychotherapists and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies.
Abstract
In recent years, the historical record of psychedelic therapy in Europe and the Americas has undergone considerable revision. In this article, we c...
Efficacy and Safety of Psychedelics in Treating Anxiety Disorders
Ochsner Journal – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics offer a promising new avenue for treating anxiety disorders. A review of 9 clinical trials, spanning various chemical compounds like LSD and psilocybin, revealed encouraging efficacy in reducing symptoms across conditions like generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety. Patients experienced improved self-perception and social function, with therapeutic effects often lasting weeks. No severe adverse events were reported, suggesting these substances, explored within psychiatry and clinical psychology, could provide a safe and effective alternative in medicine for individuals with treatment-resistant anxiety, panic disorder, or agoraphobia.
Abstract
Background: Anxiety disorders are commonly diagnosed and cause substantial functional impairment. A mixture of pharmacologic and psychosocial treat...
Overcoming the clinical challenges of traditional ayahuasca: a first-in-human trial exploring novel routes of administration of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine and harmine.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Scientists have developed innovative ways to deliver ayahuasca's key compounds, DMT and harmine, without the traditional brew's challenging side effects. By creating new formulations combining nasal sprays and oral tablets, researchers achieved more consistent results than traditional methods, with significantly less nausea and digestive issues. The psychedelic experience remained effective while being more comfortable and predictable.
Abstract
Recently, the Amazonian plant medicine "ayahuasca"-containing the psychedelic compound N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and numerous β-carboline alkalo...
Ayahuasca, Personality and Acute Psychological Effects in Neo-Shamanic and Religious Settings in Uruguay.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca ceremonies in Uruguay reveal fascinating differences between religious and neo-shamanic settings. Santo Daime church members showed lower anxiety and higher emotional stability compared to neo-shamanic participants. While both groups experienced profound effects, neo-shamanic practitioners reported more intense physical and perceptual experiences, likely due to their high-energy ritual setting and unique brew composition.
Abstract
This study is an interdisciplinary research into Uruguayan ayahuasca users belonging to one neo-shamanic and one Santo Daime group. The study invol...
The Electroencephalographic Brainwave Spectrum, Mindful Meditation, and Awareness: Hypothesis.
International journal of yoga – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
It is hypothesized that being mindfully aware is a spontaneous state of being. It is imbued with joy, peace and happiness. Such a state is periodic...
Adapting psychedelic medicine for headache and chronic pain disorders.
Expert review of neurotherapeutics – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide show promising potential in treating stubborn headache disorders and chronic pain conditions. Beyond their known benefits for depression, these compounds may offer relief through different mechanisms than traditional painkillers. Early clinical trials and patient reports suggest psychedelics could provide lasting pain reduction with fewer side effects than current treatments.
Abstract
While the majority of current research and development surrounds depression, demoralization, and substance use disorders, there are numerous report...
Going on Trial: Serotonin drug; psilocybin phase 2; placebo response data
The Transmitter – January 01, 2023
Summary
Debate surrounds the use of psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, in a clinical trial for fragile X syndrome, highlighting the evolving field of psychedelics and drug studies. In Mental Health and Psychiatry, a serotonin agonist drug is also progressing to a pharmacology-based drug trial for autism. Crucially, understanding the complex placebo effect and placebo response observed in medicine, such as in balovaptan drug trials, is vital for psychology. These diverse drug developments underscore the intricate challenges in advancing effective treatments.
Abstract
Welcome to the April edition of Going on Trial, a monthly newsletter covering clinical trials and drug development for autism and related condition...
History repeating: guidelines to address common problems in psychedelic science
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Optimism abounds for psychedelics in Psychology, Medicine, and Psychiatry, yet the field faces 10 pressing challenges. These issues threaten the validity, safety, and efficacy of Drug Studies. Concerns include unclear working mechanisms, impacting how these compounds, often alkaloids from chemical synthesis, influence neurotransmitter receptors and subsequent behavior. Addressing these problems is crucial to determine if the therapeutic promise of psychedelics is truly warranted.
Abstract
Research in the last decade has expressed considerable optimism about the clinical potential of psychedelics for the treatment of mental disorders....
25X-NBOMe compounds - chemistry, pharmacology and toxicology. A comprehensive review.
Critical reviews in toxicology – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Recently, a growing number of reports have indicated a positive effect of hallucinogenic-based therapies in different neuropsychiatric disorders. H...
Reports by explorers and travelers and the first scientific studies on ayahuasca (dating from 1850 to 1950) within the current debate on the “psychedelic renaissance”
História Ciências Saúde-Manguinhos – January 01, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Indigenous psychoactive brew, has seen a resurgence in interest during the psychedelic renaissance, which began gaining traction in the early 2000s. Examining historical accounts from 1850 to 1950 reveals that early studies on ayahuasca were often overshadowed by anti-drug policies that emerged in the late 20th century. With over 100 articles and expedition reports analyzed, this exploration highlights ongoing debates surrounding Indigenous practices, pharmaceutical interests, and the complex sociopolitical landscape of psychedelics today.
Abstract
Abstract This article describes the associations and controversies between indigenous and western uses of ayahuasca between 1850 and 1950 in relati...
Visualizing drug actions on dendrites: psilocybin and other classic psychedelics
OpenAlex – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, rapidly rewires the brain. Neuroscience microscopy revealed that a single dose significantly increased dendritic spines on neurons within the mouse frontal cortex. These profound structural changes, vital for learning and memory, illuminate how psychedelics influence brain function. Such findings from drug studies are crucial for psychology, potentially explaining altered perception, including olfactory and other sensory functions, and the broader neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
To determine effects of psychedelics on neuronal architecture, we used two-photon microscopy to image dendritic spines in mouse frontal cortex afte...
Conscious entry into sleep: Yoga Nidra and accessing subtler states of consciousness.
Progress in brain research – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Human sleep is a dynamic and complex process comprising sleep stages with REM and NREM sleep characteristics that come in cycles. During sleep, the...
Journeying to Ixtlan: Ethics of Psychedelic Medicine and Research for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias.
AJOB neuroscience – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
In this paper, we examine the case of psychedelic medicine for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD). These "mind-altering" drugs are...
CHEMISTRY OF AYAHUASCA: A DIDACTIC APPROACH TO TEACH FUNCTIONAL GROUPS
Editora Científica Digital eBooks – January 01, 2023
Summary
A compelling approach to teaching chemistry showed significant benefits for high school students. At the Instituto Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, a case study using ayahuasca to teach functional groups engaged seniors in a more meaningful way. The qualitative and participatory action research involved 30 students, revealing that contextualized lessons improved conceptual understanding and skill development. As a result, 85% of participants reported increased engagement in chemistry activities, highlighting the effectiveness of linking scientific knowledge with real-world contexts for enhanced learning outcomes.
Abstract
Most High School chemistry teachers keep having difficulty in contextualizing school contents in their lessons. The use of new methodologies in sch...
Explanation of near-death experiences: a systematic analysis of case reports and qualitative research.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Some individuals report a near-death experience (NDE) after a life-threatening crisis, which refers to a range of subjective experiences related to...
Ecstatic or Mystical Experience through Epilepsy
Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience – January 01, 2023
Summary
Profound BLISS and CLARITY can be a symptom of a rare Epilepsy, where seizures begin with ecstatic feelings of unity and heightened Consciousness. Originating in the brain's Insula, Cognitive psychology suggests temporary disruptions might halt the processing of internal bodily "Surprise," creating an absence of uncertainty and perfect well-being. This perspective explores the Psychology of these episodes, offering insights for Epilepsy research and treatment, potentially informing our understanding of feeling, consciousness, and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, beyond typical Psychoanalysis or Psychosomatic Disorders.
Abstract
Abstract Ecstatic epilepsy is a rare form of focal epilepsy, so named because the seizures' first symptoms consist of an ecstatic/mystical experien...
Touching and being touched: where knowing and feeling meet.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Philosophers maintain that touch confers a sense of reality or grounding to perceptual experience. In touching oneself, one is simultaneously both ...
Integrative Oncology's 30-Year Anniversary: What Have We Achieved? A North American Naturopathic Oncology Perspective.
Integrative cancer therapies – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
In 1991 the U.S. Congress mandated that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) form the Office of Alternative Medicine to study alternative medica...
Clinical Trial Design Challenges and Opportunities for Emerging Treatments for Opioid Use Disorder: A Review.
JAMA psychiatry – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Novel treatments for opioid use disorder (OUD) are needed to address both the ongoing opioid epidemic and long-standing barriers to existing OUD tr...
Cessations of consciousness in meditation: Advancing a scientific understanding of nirodha samāpatti.
Progress in brain research – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Absence of consciousness can occur due to a concussion, anesthetization, intoxication, epileptic seizure, or other fainting/syncope episode caused ...
"How Do I Learn More About this?": Utilization and Trust of Psychedelic Information Sources Among People Naturalistically Using Psychedelics.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
As psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin gain mainstream attention, users primarily trust scientific journals and academic sources for reliable information, while showing skepticism toward government agencies and pharmaceutical companies. A survey of over 1,200 people revealed that most rely on personal experience and online resources, with less than 5% consulting healthcare providers. While users actively seek diverse information sources, they find mainstream media coverage often oversimplifies or misrepresents psychedelic substances.
Abstract
There is a surge of interest in psychedelics, including new stakeholders and greater media attention. There is a need to examine the information-se...
Tips and Recommendations for The Ingestion of Psilocybin: An Introduction to Community-Based Public Health Guidance for Lower Risk Psilocybin Use
Knowledge Commons (Lakehead University) – January 01, 2023
Summary
Responsible psilocybin consumption requires careful planning, according to new public health guidance. For individuals considering ingestion of this powerful hallucinogen, recommendations prioritize a positive psychological state and thorough risk assessment. Key advice includes learning about psilocybin, securing a safe supply, and starting with low doses to manage risk perception. Such strategies are crucial for safe experiences and reflect growing interest in psilocybin's potential in medicine and psychiatry, emphasizing a proactive approach to personal well-being.
Abstract
The purpose of this report is to provide community-based guidance for lower-risk psilocybin use. It is our hope that this guidance will help indivi...
Psychedelic Drug Therapy for Mental Disorders?
Open Journal of Medical Psychology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Despite a government move allowing psychiatrists in one country to prescribe two drugs, including psilocybin, from July 1, 2023, an expert review challenges the underlying psychology. Psychedelic drug studies exploring these chemical synthesis and alkaloids reveal medicine's evidence is irretrievably flawed. All future trials, examining their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, are deemed similarly unreliable. No trustworthy proof exists for effectiveness against mental disorders. Beyond this, therapy is impractical due to specialized psychotherapist training and high costs. False publicity about psychedelics risks unsupervised self-dosing, leading to an unacceptably high addiction rate.
Abstract
Objective: Psychedelic drug therapy is banned in all countries of the world except Australia, where the government regulatory watchdog, the Therape...
Translational research investigating psilocybin
OpenAlex – January 01, 2023
Summary
The powerful hallucinogen psilocybin, a serotonergic compound in psychedelic mushrooms, profoundly alters perception, mood, and bodily image by activating specific brain receptors. Despite growing interest in its therapeutic potential for psychiatric disorders, the neurobiological mechanisms remain elusive. This Neuroscience and Psychology research investigates psilocybin's acute dose-dependent effects across three distinct levels: epigenetic, neurobiological, and cognitive. Understanding these complex drug studies will clarify how psilocybin influences illusion and reality.
Abstract
This dissertation has taken an interdisciplinary approach to investigate and give insights into psilocybin’s neurobiological underpinnings. Psilocy...
The thalamus in psychosis spectrum disorder.
Frontiers in neuroscience – January 01, 2023
Summary
The thalamus, a deep brain structure that acts like a neural switchboard, plays a crucial role in psychosis. Recent discoveries show how disrupted connections between the thalamus and cortex affect cognition and perception. Studies combining brain imaging and pharmacology reveal that this disruption mirrors effects seen with psychosis-inducing drugs. The mediodorsal nucleus appears particularly important, suggesting new treatment paths for mental health conditions.
Abstract
Psychosis spectrum disorder (PSD) affects 1% of the world population and results in a lifetime of chronic disability, causing devastating personal ...
Low doses of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) increase reward-related brain activity.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Tiny amounts of LSD can boost the brain's reward processing systems, even without causing noticeable psychedelic effects. Scientists found that low doses enhanced brain responses to rewards and positive feedback in healthy adults. Using advanced brain monitoring, researchers observed increased activity in three distinct reward-processing pathways, suggesting LSD's potential to enhance natural reward responses and positive emotions.
Abstract
Renewed interest in classic psychedelics as treatments for psychiatric disorders warrants a deeper understanding of their neural mechanisms. Single...
An Assessment of Psychedelic Knowledge Among People Using Psychedelics Naturalistically.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
People who use psychedelics like LSD, DMT, and psilocybin tend to be well-informed about these substances. A survey of 1,435 users revealed high levels of knowledge about therapeutic uses, legal status, and safety. Frequent users and those with higher education showed the strongest understanding, though knowledge gaps exist in underserved communities. This highlights the success of existing psychedelic education efforts.
Abstract
Identifying gaps and strengths in psychedelic-related knowledge is key to developing effective, evidence-based education to inform appropriate use ...
Overview of treatment-resistant depression.
Progress in brain research – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) often exhibit an inadequate treatment response or failure to achieve remission following treatment wi...
Evaluation of Histopathologic Findings and Safety of Intravitreal Ketamine Administration on Vitreoretinal Tissue in Rat Model: A Pilot Study.
Journal of current ophthalmology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Ketamine, known for its anesthetic properties, shows promising safety when administered directly into the eye. In a groundbreaking investigation, researchers tested intravitreal ketamine injections in rats, monitoring eye tissue health. After one month, the treated eyes showed no signs of damage, inflammation, or adverse effects on the retina or optic nerve - suggesting this could be a safe approach for future eye treatments.
Abstract
To evaluate the safety and histological findings of intravitreal injection of ketamine in rats. Each rat received a total volume of 0.1 ml of ketam...
Case report: Ibogaine reduced severe neuropathic pain associated with a case of brachial plexus nerve root avulsion.
Frontiers in pain research (Lausanne, Switzerland) – January 01, 2023
Summary
Imagine decades of severe, intractable neuropathic pain from a brachial plexus nerve root avulsion caused by vehicular trauma. One patient found remarkable relief. This individual's chronic pain was successfully managed with ibogaine, whose effects, potentially involving its active metabolite noribogaine, significantly reduced the suffering. This case highlights a promising new approach to pain management.
Abstract
Brachial plexus nerve root avulsion results from complete separation of the nerve root from the spinal cord and is one of the most challenging type...
The Toronto Mindfulness Scale and the State Mindfulness Scale: psychometric properties of the Spanish versions.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
The Toronto Mindfulness Scale (TMS) and the State Mindfulness Scale (SMS) are two relevant self-report measures of state mindfulness. The purpose o...
The efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions on mental health among university students: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Frontiers in public health – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
We aimed to estimate the effect of mindfulness therapy on mental health. Two researchers searched 12 databases to identify relevant trials that wer...
Influence of the context of administration in the anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects of the psychedelic 5-MeO-DMT
Neuroscience Applied – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Should we be leery of being Leary? Concerns about psychedelic use by psychedelic researchers.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – January 01, 2023
Summary
Personal experience with psychedelics among researchers raises important questions about scientific objectivity in this emerging field. Studies show that exposure to substances like MDMA and psilocybin can significantly influence researchers' perspectives, potentially affecting their enthusiasm and assessment of psychedelic therapy outcomes. While this firsthand knowledge can provide valuable insights, it also demands careful research ethics considerations to maintain scientific integrity and protect study participants.
Abstract
Psychedelic research is proceeding rapidly, despite ongoing legal and regulatory barriers and lingering questions about study design, such as the d...
Use of psychoactive substances by goods carriage drivers associated with Kerala, India.
Traffic injury prevention – January 01, 2023
Summary
Over 20% of commercial drivers in Kerala, India tested positive for psychoactive substances, with cannabis being the most common. Using advanced bio-chip array technology for point-of-collection testing, researchers screened 249 drivers' oral fluid samples. Longer-distance drivers showed higher substance use rates. The testing method proved highly accurate, detecting both traditional and new psychoactive substances.
Abstract
This study aimed to measure the prevalence of drugs of abuse (DOA) among the goods carriage drivers associated with the southern State of India, Ke...
Psychedelic Science, Contemplative Practices, and Indigenous and Other Traditional Knowledge Systems: Towards Integrative Community-Based Approaches in Global Health.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
As individuals and communities around the world confront mounting physical, psychological, and social threats, three complimentary mind-body-spirit...
[Interest and mechanisms of action of ketamine in alcohol addiction- A review of clinical and preclinical studies].
Biologie aujourd'hui – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by chronic and excessive drinking despite negative consequences on overall heal...
The G protein biased serotonin 5-HT2A receptor agonist lisuride exerts anti-depressant drug-like activities in mice.
Frontiers in molecular biosciences – January 01, 2023
Summary
Scientists have discovered that lisuride, a drug that affects serotonin 2A receptors in the brain, shows promise as an antidepressant without typical hallucinogenic effects. Unlike related compounds, it produced minimal head twitch responses in mice while demonstrating lasting mood-improving effects. The drug reduced depression-like behaviors and increased sugar preference, with fewer serotonin-syndrome symptoms than similar medications.
Abstract
There is now evidence from multiple Phase II clinical trials that psychedelic drugs can exert long-lasting anxiolytic, anti-depressant, and anti-dr...
The Safety and Efficacy of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies for Older Adults: Knowns and Unknowns.
The American journal of geriatric psychiatry : official journal of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry – January 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough treatments using psilocybin and MDMA show promise for older adults struggling with depression, PTSD, and grief. These psychedelics work through unique pharmacology to promote healing and personal growth. Clinical data reveals significant benefits when administered under controlled conditions, though cardiovascular effects require careful monitoring in seniors.
Abstract
Psychedelics and related compounds have shown efficacy for the treatment of a variety of conditions that are prevalent among older adults, includin...
This is your brain on death: a comparative analysis of a near-death experience and subsequent 5-Methoxy-DMT experience.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2023
Summary
A profound near-death experience during encephalitis-induced coma shared remarkable similarities with the effects of the powerful psychedelic 5-MeO-DMT. Through thematic analysis, researchers found both experiences produced intense mystical states, including ego dissolution and transcendence of space-time. While endogenous compounds may play a role, unique NDE elements like life review suggest distinct neural mechanisms.
Abstract
Much research has focused on the modeling of the near-death experience (NDE) by classical and atypical psychedelics; however, to date, no study has...
Mindfulness meditation use in chronic pain treatment in rural Australia: Pitfalls and potential - A case report.
Journal of neurosciences in rural practice – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Mindfulness is a state of awareness characterized by open and non-judgmental recognition of thoughts and sensations and an ability to resist the us...
Psychedelics, entropic brain theory, and the taxonomy of conscious states: a summary of debates and perspectives.
Neuroscience of consciousness – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like psilocybin may hold the key to understanding human consciousness itself. The entropic brain theory suggests these substances create unique states of consciousness by increasing the brain's information-processing flexibility. This framework helps explain how psychedelic states differ from normal consciousness and could potentially aid patients with consciousness disorders through carefully controlled therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Given their recent success in counseling and psychiatry, the dialogue around psychedelics has mainly focused on their applications for mental healt...
Acute pharmacological profile of 2C-B-Fly-NBOMe in male Wistar rats-pharmacokinetics, effects on behaviour and thermoregulation.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2023
Summary
A new psychoactive substance from the NBOMe series shows significant brain penetration and behavioral effects. Scientists found that 2C-B-Fly-NBOMe reaches peak brain levels within an hour, reducing movement and altering sensory processing in rats. The compound's pharmacokinetics reveal sustained presence in brain tissue for 8+ hours, though it doesn't affect body temperature regulation.
Abstract
Introduction: N-2-methoxy-benzylated ("NBOMe") analogues of phenethylamine are a group of new psychoactive substances (NPS) with reported strong ps...
Seeking the Psilocybiome: Psychedelics meet the microbiota-gut-brain axis.
International journal of clinical and health psychology : IJCHP – January 01, 2023
Summary
The gut microbiome may play a surprising role in how psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and DMT affect our brain and behavior. Scientists have discovered that these substances don't just work directly on the brain - they interact with our gut bacteria through the microbiota-gut-brain axis, creating a complex feedback system that influences therapeutic outcomes. This connection helps explain why hallucinogens can have lasting effects on mood and cognition.
Abstract
Moving towards a systems psychiatry paradigm embraces the inherent complex interactions across all levels from micro to macro and necessitates an i...
The Global Distribution and Epidemiology of Psychoactive Substance Use and Injection Drug Use Among Street-Involved Children and Youth: A Meta-Analysis.
Substance use & misuse – January 01, 2023
Summary
A global analysis reveals that tobacco and cannabis are the most commonly used substances among young people living on streets. Higher rates of psychoactive substance use strongly correlate with experiences of violence, homelessness, and risky sexual behaviors. Males with family history of substance use face greater risks. The data shows age-specific patterns: while meth and cannabis use increase with age, tobacco and cocaine use typically decrease.
Abstract
Background: Globally, street-involved children and youth (SICY) who work and live on/of the streets are at higher risk of increased psychoactive su...
Altered states of leadership: mindfulness meditation, psychedelic use, and leadership development.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Leaders who practice mindfulness meditation or have meaningful psychedelic experiences report significant improvements in their leadership abilities. A large study of 3,150 managers found that both practices enhanced leadership qualities in distinct ways. Meditation boosted focus, patience, and stress management, while psychedelics fostered creativity, empathy, and less hierarchical thinking. Those with more meditation hours or profound psychedelic insights were twice as likely to report positive leadership changes.
Abstract
Previous research suggests that mindfulness meditation and psychedelic substances show promise as mental health interventions, but relatively littl...
μ-opioid receptor agonists and psychedelics: pharmacological opportunities and challenges.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Opioid misuse and opioid-involved overdose deaths are a massive public health problem involving the intertwined misuse of prescription opioids for ...
Self-Care Practices with Psychedelics - A Qualitative Study of Users' Perspectives.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
This article explores the psychedelic experience from the users' point of view and through the lens of self-care, a concept within the domain of he...
Belief changes associated with psychedelic use.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Psychedelic use is anecdotally associated with belief changes, although few studies have tested these claims. Characterize a broad range of psyched...
Persons With Spinal Cord Injury Report Peripherally Dominant Serotonin-Like Syndrome After Use of Serotonergic Psychedelics.
Neurotrauma reports – January 01, 2023
Summary
People with spinal cord injuries experience unique reactions to psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD, marked by intense muscle spasms and sweating. These serotonin-related effects are concentrated in the body rather than the mind, suggesting altered sensitivity to these substances after injury. While patients return to baseline, these physical responses can diminish the therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) may treat various mental health conditions. Despite its promising therapeutic signal across mental health outcom...
Designing voice interfaces to support mindfulness-based pain management.
Digital health – January 01, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Chronic pain is a critical public health issue affecting approximately 20% of the adult population in the United States. Given the opioid crisis, t...