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Fonzo GA, Federchenco V, Lara A. Predicting and Managing Treatment Non-Response in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN PSYCHIATRY 2020; 7:70-87. [PMID: 33344106 PMCID: PMC7748158 DOI: 10.1007/s40501-020-00203-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to synthesize existing research regarding the definition of treatment resistance in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), predictors of treatment non-response to first-line interventions, and emerging second-line PTSD treatment options into an accessible resource for the practicing clinician. RECENT FINDINGS The concept of treatment resistance in PTSD is currently poorly defined and operationalized. There are no well-established predictors of treatment non-response utilized in routine clinical care, but existing research identifies several potential candidate markers, including male gender, low social support, chronic and early life trauma exposure, comorbid psychiatric disorders, severe PTSD symptoms, and poor physical health. The most promising available treatment options for PTSD patients non-responsive to first-line psychotherapies and antidepressants include transcranial magnetic stimulation and ketamine infusion. Methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted psychotherapy also appears promising but is only available in a research context. These options require careful consideration of risks and benefits for a particular patient. SUMMARY More research is required to develop a robust, clinically-useful definition of treatment resistance in PTSD; identify reliable, readily assessable, and generalizable predictors of PTSD treatment non-response; and implement measurement and prediction in clinical settings to identify individuals unlikely to respond to first-line treatments and direct them to appropriate second-line treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory A. Fonzo
- Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin
| | - Vecheslav Federchenco
- General Psychiatry Residency, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin
- Equal contributions to authorship
| | - Alba Lara
- General Psychiatry Residency, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin
- Equal contributions to authorship
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152
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Greenway KT, Garel N, Jerome L, Feduccia AA. Integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology: psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and other combined treatments. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2020; 13:655-670. [DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2020.1772054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kyle T. Greenway
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nicolas Garel
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Lisa Jerome
- Data Services, MAPS Public Benefit Corporation
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153
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Hopper JW. Values and visions for the field of psychological trauma, from brain to re-moralization and social transformation. J Trauma Dissociation 2020; 21:279-292. [PMID: 32026755 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2020.1718968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- James W Hopper
- Independent Consultant and Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
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154
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Reiff CM, Richman EE, Nemeroff CB, Carpenter LL, Widge AS, Rodriguez CI, Kalin NH, McDonald WM. Psychedelics and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy. Am J Psychiatry 2020; 177:391-410. [PMID: 32098487 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2019.19010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 257] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The authors provide an evidenced-based summary of the literature on the clinical application of psychedelic drugs in psychiatric disorders. METHODS Searches of PubMed and PsycINFO via Ovid were conducted for articles in English, in peer-reviewed journals, reporting on "psilocybin," "lysergic acid diethylamide," "LSD," "ayahuasca," "3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine," and "MDMA," in human subjects, published between 2007 and July 1, 2019. A total of 1,603 articles were identified and screened. Articles that did not contain the terms "clinical trial," "therapy," or "imaging" in the title or abstract were filtered out. The 161 remaining articles were reviewed by two or more authors. The authors identified 14 articles reporting on well-designed clinical trials investigating the efficacy of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), psilocybin, and ayahuasca for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, and substance-related and addictive disorders as well as in end-of-life care. RESULTS The most significant database exists for MDMA and psilocybin, which have been designated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as "breakthrough therapies" for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and treatment-resistant depression, respectively. The research on LSD and ayahuasca is observational, but available evidence suggests that these agents may have therapeutic effects in specific psychiatric disorders. CONCLUSIONS Randomized clinical trials support the efficacy of MDMA in the treatment of PTSD and psilocybin in the treatment of depression and cancer-related anxiety. The research to support the use of LSD and ayahuasca in the treatment of psychiatric disorders is preliminary, although promising. Overall, the database is insufficient for FDA approval of any psychedelic compound for routine clinical use in psychiatric disorders at this time, but continued research on the efficacy of psychedelics for the treatment of psychiatric disorders is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Collin M Reiff
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York (Reiff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (Richman, McDonald); Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School and the Institute for Early Life Adversity Research, University of Texas at Austin (Nemeroff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Butler Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (Carpenter); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (Widge); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif., and Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif. (Rodriguez); Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison (Kalin)
| | - Elon E Richman
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York (Reiff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (Richman, McDonald); Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School and the Institute for Early Life Adversity Research, University of Texas at Austin (Nemeroff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Butler Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (Carpenter); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (Widge); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif., and Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif. (Rodriguez); Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison (Kalin)
| | - Charles B Nemeroff
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York (Reiff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (Richman, McDonald); Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School and the Institute for Early Life Adversity Research, University of Texas at Austin (Nemeroff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Butler Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (Carpenter); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (Widge); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif., and Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif. (Rodriguez); Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison (Kalin)
| | - Linda L Carpenter
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York (Reiff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (Richman, McDonald); Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School and the Institute for Early Life Adversity Research, University of Texas at Austin (Nemeroff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Butler Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (Carpenter); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (Widge); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif., and Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif. (Rodriguez); Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison (Kalin)
| | - Alik S Widge
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York (Reiff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (Richman, McDonald); Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School and the Institute for Early Life Adversity Research, University of Texas at Austin (Nemeroff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Butler Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (Carpenter); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (Widge); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif., and Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif. (Rodriguez); Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison (Kalin)
| | - Carolyn I Rodriguez
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York (Reiff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (Richman, McDonald); Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School and the Institute for Early Life Adversity Research, University of Texas at Austin (Nemeroff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Butler Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (Carpenter); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (Widge); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif., and Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif. (Rodriguez); Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison (Kalin)
| | - Ned H Kalin
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York (Reiff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (Richman, McDonald); Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School and the Institute for Early Life Adversity Research, University of Texas at Austin (Nemeroff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Butler Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (Carpenter); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (Widge); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif., and Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif. (Rodriguez); Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison (Kalin)
| | - William M McDonald
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York (Reiff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (Richman, McDonald); Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School and the Institute for Early Life Adversity Research, University of Texas at Austin (Nemeroff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Butler Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (Carpenter); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (Widge); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif., and Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif. (Rodriguez); Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison (Kalin)
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- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York (Reiff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (Richman, McDonald); Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School and the Institute for Early Life Adversity Research, University of Texas at Austin (Nemeroff); Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Butler Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (Carpenter); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (Widge); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif., and Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif. (Rodriguez); Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison (Kalin)
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Abstract
This article covers the renaissance of classical psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin and LSD plus 3,4-methylene dioxymethamphetamine (MDMA-ecstasy) in psychiatric research. These drugs were used quite extensively before they became prohibited. This ban had little impact on recreational use, but effectively stopped research and clinical treatments, which up to that point had looked very promising in several areas of psychiatry. In the past decade a number of groups have been working to re-evaluate the utility of these substances in medicine. So far highly promising preliminary data have been produced with psilocybin in anxiety, depression, smoking, alcoholism, and with MDMA for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcoholism. These findings have led to the European Medicines Agency approving psilocybin for a phase 3 study in treatment-resistant depression and the Food and Drug Administration for PTSD with MDMA. Both trials should read out in 2020, and if the results are positive we are likely to see these medicines approved for clinical practice soon afterwards.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Nutt
- Author affiliations: Professor of Neuropsychopharmacology; Director, Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Imperial College, London, UK. Address for correspondence: Burlington Danes building, Du Cane Rd, London W12 0NN, UK. (
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156
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Luethi D, Liechti ME. Designer drugs: mechanism of action and adverse effects. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:1085-1133. [PMID: 32249347 PMCID: PMC7225206 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02693-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Psychoactive substances with chemical structures or pharmacological profiles that are similar to traditional drugs of abuse continue to emerge on the recreational drug market. Internet vendors may at least temporarily sell these so-called designer drugs without adhering to legal statutes or facing legal consequences. Overall, the mechanism of action and adverse effects of designer drugs are similar to traditional drugs of abuse. Stimulants, such as amphetamines and cathinones, primarily interact with monoamine transporters and mostly induce sympathomimetic adverse effects. Agonism at μ-opioid receptors and γ-aminobutyric acid-A (GABAA) or GABAB receptors mediates the pharmacological effects of sedatives, which may induce cardiorespiratory depression. Dissociative designer drugs primarily act as N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists and pose similar health risks as the medically approved dissociative anesthetic ketamine. The cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor is thought to drive the psychoactive effects of synthetic cannabinoids, which are associated with a less desirable effect profile and more severe adverse effects compared with cannabis. Serotonergic 5-hydroxytryptamine-2A (5-HT2A) receptors mediate alterations of perception and cognition that are induced by serotonergic psychedelics. Because of their novelty, designer drugs may remain undetected by routine drug screening, thus hampering evaluations of adverse effects. Intoxication reports suggest that several designer drugs are used concurrently, posing a high risk for severe adverse effects and even death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dino Luethi
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Strasse 13a, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
- Institute of Applied Physics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060, Vienna, Austria.
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Schanzenstrasse 55, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Schanzenstrasse 55, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
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157
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Gorman I, Belser AB, Jerome L, Hennigan C, Shechet B, Hamilton S, Yazar‐Klosinski B, Emerson A, Feduccia AA. Posttraumatic Growth After MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. J Trauma Stress 2020; 33:161-170. [PMID: 32073177 PMCID: PMC7216948 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been shown to significantly reduce clinical symptomatology, but posttraumatic growth (PTG), which consists of positive changes in self-perception, interpersonal relationships, or philosophy of life, has not been studied with this treatment. Participant data (n = 60) were pooled from three Phase 2 clinical studies employing triple-blind crossover designs. Participants were required to meet DSM-IV-R criteria for PTSD with a score higher than 50 on the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-IV) as well as previous inadequate response to pharmacological and/or psychotherapeutic treatment. Data were aggregated into two groups: an active MDMA dose group (75-125 mg of MDMA; n = 45) or placebo/active control (0-40 mg of MDMA; n = 15). Measures included the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) and the CAPS-IV, which were administered at baseline, primary endpoint, treatment exit, and 12-month follow-up. At primary endpoint, the MDMA group demonstrated more PTG, Hedges' g = 1.14, 95% CI [0.49, 1.78], p < .001; and a larger reduction in PTSD symptom severity, Hedges' g = 0.88, 95% CI [-0.28, 1.50], p < .001, relative to the control group. Relative to baseline, at the 12-month follow-up, within-subject PTG was higher, p < .001; PTSD symptom severity scores were lower, p < .001; and two-thirds of participants (67.2%) no longer met criteria for PTSD. MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD resulted in PTG and clinical symptom reductions of large-magnitude effect sizes. Results suggest that PTG may provide a new mechanism of action warranting further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingmar Gorman
- Rory Meyers College of NursingNew York UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | | | - Lisa Jerome
- MAPS Public Benefit CorporationSanta CruzCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Ben Shechet
- Scottsdale Research InstitutePhoenixArizonaUSA
| | - Scott Hamilton
- Stanford University School of MedicineStanford UniversityStanfordCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Amy Emerson
- MAPS Public Benefit CorporationSanta CruzCaliforniaUSA
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158
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Berquist MD, Leth-Petersen S, Kristensen JL, Fantegrossi WE. In vivo effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and its deuterated form in rodents: Drug discrimination and thermoregulation. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 208:107850. [PMID: 31954950 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.107850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent clinical studies support the use of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) as an adjunct treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite these promising findings, MDMA administration in controlled settings can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature. Previous studies indicate thatO-demethylated metabolites of MDMA contribute to its adverse effects. As such, limiting the conversion of MDMA to reactive metabolites may mitigate some of its adverse effects and potentially improve its safety profile for therapeutic use. METHODS We compared the interoceptive and hyperthermic effects of a deuterium-substituted form of MDMA (d2-MDMA) to MDMA using rodent drug discrimination and biotelemetry procedures, respectively. RESULTS Compared to MDMA, d2-MDMA produced full substitution for a 1.5 mg/kg MDMA training stimulus with equal potency and effectiveness in the drug discrimination experiment. In addition, d2-MDMA produced increases in body temperature that were shorter-lasting and of lower magnitude compared to equivalent doses of MDMA. Last, d2-MDMA and MDMA were equally effective in reversing the hypothermic effects of the selective 5-HT2A/2C antagonist ketanserin. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that deuterium substitution of hydrogen at the methylenedioxy ring moiety does not impact MDMA's interoceptive effects, and compared to MDMA, d2-MDMA has less potential for producing hyperthermic effects and likely has similar pharmacodynamic properties. Given that d2-MDMA produces less adverse effects than MDMA, but retains similar desirable effects that are thought to relate to the effective treatment of PTSD, additional investigations into its effects on cardiovascular functioning and pharmacokinetic properties are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Berquist
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham #611, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Sebastian Leth-Petersen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 København Ø, Denmark
| | - Jesper Langgaard Kristensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 København Ø, Denmark
| | - William E Fantegrossi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham #611, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA.
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159
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Dose concentration and spatial memory and brain mitochondrial function association after 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) administration in rats. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:911-925. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02673-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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160
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Locomotor effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and its deuterated form in mice: psychostimulant effects, stereotypy, and sensitization. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:431-442. [PMID: 31729537 PMCID: PMC7388080 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05380-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE There is a renewed interest in the use of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) for treating psychiatric conditions. Although MDMA has entered phase II clinical trials and shows promise as an adjunct treatment, there is an extensive literature detailing the potential neurotoxicity and adverse neurobehavioral effects associated with MDMA use. Previous research indicates that the adverse effects of MDMA may be due to its metabolism into reactive catechols that can enter the brain and serve directly as neurotoxicants. One approach to mitigate MDMA's potential for adverse effects is to reduce O-demethylation by deuterating the methylenedioxy ring of MDMA. There are no studies that have evaluated the effects of deuterating MDMA on behavioral outcomes. OBJECTIVES The purpose of the present study was to assess the motor-stimulant effects of deuterated MDMA (d2-MDMA) and compare them to MDMA in male mice. METHODS Two experiments were performed to quantify mouse locomotor activity and to vary the drug administration regimen (single bolus administration or cumulative administration). RESULTS The results of Experiments 1 and 2 indicate that d2-MDMA is less effective at eliciting horizontal locomotion than MDMA; however, the differences between the compounds diminish as the number of cumulative administrations increase. Both d2-MDMA and MDMA can elicit sensitized responses, and these effects cross-sensitize to the prototypical drug of abuse methamphetamine. Thus, d2-MDMA functions as a locomotor stimulant similar to MDMA, but, depending on the dosing regimen, may be less susceptible to inducing sensitization to stereotyped movements. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that d2-MDMA is behaviorally active and produces locomotor effects that are similar to MDMA, which warrant additional assessments of d2-MDMA's behavioral and physiological effects to determine the conditions under which this compound may serve as a relatively safer alternative to MDMA for clinical use.
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161
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Chi T, Gold JA. A review of emerging therapeutic potential of psychedelic drugs in the treatment of psychiatric illnesses. J Neurol Sci 2020; 411:116715. [PMID: 32044687 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.116715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2019] [Revised: 11/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Though there was initial interest in the use of psychedelic drugs for psychiatric treatment, bad outcomes and subsequent passage of the Substance Act of 1970, which placed psychedelic drugs in the Schedule I category, significantly limited potential progress. More recently, however, there has been renewal in interest and promise of psychedelic research. The purpose of this review is to highlight contemporary human studies on the use of select psychedelic drugs, such as psilocybin, LSD, MDMA and ayahuasca, in the treatment of various psychiatric illnesses, including but not limited to treatment-resistant depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, end-of-life anxiety, and substance use disorders. The safety and efficacy as reported from human and animal studies will also be discussed. Accumulated research to date has suggested the potential for psychedelics to emerge as breakthrough therapies for psychiatric conditions refractory to conventional treatments. However, given the unique history and high potential for misuse with popular distribution, special care and considerations must be undertaken to safeguard their use as viable medical treatments rather than drugs of abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingying Chi
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, USA.
| | - Jessica A Gold
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, USA.
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162
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Bahji A, Forsyth A, Groll D, Hawken ER. Efficacy of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 96:109735. [PMID: 31437480 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.109735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common psychiatric condition that can develop following a traumatic experience. PTSD is associated with significant disability, a large economic burden, and despite the range of therapies to treat PTSD, response to antidepressants is limited. A growing body of clinical research suggests the efficacy of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy in individuals with treatment-refractory PTSD. AIM To assess the effectiveness and safety of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for reducing symptoms of PTSD, a systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken. METHODS Six online databases were searched from inception to December 2018. Reference lists of relevant articles were manually searched as well as electronic sources of ongoing trials and conference proceedings. Researchers active in the subject were also contacted. Eligible studies included randomized and quasi-randomized clinical trials using MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD in comparison with other medications, placebo or no medication (supportive care). We used standard methodological procedures expected by the Cochrane Collaboration. Two authors assessed studies for inclusion and extracted data. Using random-effects meta-analysis with Cochrane's Review Manager 5.3, we obtained standardized mean differences [SMD] and rate ratios [RR] for reduction in PTSD symptomatology. RESULTS A total of 5 trials met inclusion criteria, totaling 106 participants (average age: 35-40 years, 70% female). Studies were rated as moderate in quality. MDMA-assisted psychotherapy demonstrated a high rate of clinical response (RR = 3.47, 95% CI: 1.70, 7.06), remission (RR = 2.63, 95% CI: 1.37, 5.02), with a large effect size at reducing the symptoms of PTSD (SMD = 1.30, 95% CI: 0.66, 1.94). Available evidence indicates that MDMA was well-tolerated, with few serious adverse events reported across studies. CONCLUSIONS MDMA-assisted psychotherapy appears to be a potentially safe, effective, and durable treatment for individuals with chronic, treatment-refractory PTSD. However, future studies involving larger samples and longer durations of treatment and follow-up are warranted-and underway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anees Bahji
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Ashleigh Forsyth
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Providence Care Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dianne Groll
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emily R Hawken
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Providence Care Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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163
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Serotonin 2A receptors are a stress response system: implications for post-traumatic stress disorder. Behav Pharmacol 2020; 30:151-162. [PMID: 30632995 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin, one of the first neurotransmitters to be identified, is an evolutionarily old molecule that is highly conserved across the animal kingdom, and widely used throughout the brain. Despite this, ascribing a specific set of functions to brain serotonin and its receptors has been difficult and controversial. The 2A subtype of serotonin receptors (5-HT2A receptor) is the major excitatory serotonin receptor in the brain and has been linked to the effects of drugs that produce profound sensory and cognitive changes. Numerous studies have shown that this receptor is upregulated by a broad variety of stressors, and have related 5-HT2A receptor function to associative learning. This review proposes that stress, particularly stress related to danger and existential threats, increases the expression and function of 5-HT2A receptors. It is argued that this is a neurobiological adaptation to promote learning and avoidance of danger in the future. Upregulation of 5-HT2A receptors during stressful events forms associations that tune the brain to environmental cues that signal danger. It is speculated that life-threatening situations may activate this system and contribute to the symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, which activates 5-HT2A receptors, has been successful in the treatment of PTSD and has recently achieved status as a breakthrough therapy. An argument is presented that 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine may paradoxically act through these same 5-HT2A receptors to ameliorate the symptoms of PTSD. The central thematic contention is that a key role of serotonin may be to function as a stress detection and response system.
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164
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Pitts EG, Barfield ET, Woon EP, Gourley SL. Action-Outcome Expectancies Require Orbitofrontal Neurotrophin Systems in Naïve and Cocaine-Exposed Mice. Neurotherapeutics 2020; 17:165-177. [PMID: 31218603 PMCID: PMC7007486 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-019-00752-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cocaine use during adolescence decreases the likelihood that individuals will seek treatment for recurrent drug use. In rodents, developmental cocaine exposure weakens action-consequence decision-making, causing a deferral to familiar, habit-like behavioral response strategies. Here, we aimed to improve action-outcome decision-making. We found that acute pharmacological stimulation of the tyrosine/tropomyosin receptor kinase B (trkB) via 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) blocked cocaine-induced habit biases by strengthening memory for action-outcome associations. We believe that MDMA acts by stimulating neurotrophin/trkB systems in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), a region involved in prospectively evaluating the consequences of one's action, because 1) MDMA also increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the OFC, 2) MDMA corrected habit biases due to Bdnf loss in the OFC, and 3) overexpression of a truncated isoform of trkB occluded the memory-enhancing effects of MDMA. Thus, selecting actions based on their consequences requires BDNF-trkB in the OFC, the stimulation of which may improve goal attainment in both drug-naïve and cocaine-exposed individuals. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Cocaine use during adolescence decreases the likelihood that individuals will seek treatment for recurrent drug use, even as adults. Understanding how early-life cocaine exposure impacts goal-oriented action and prospective decision-making in adulthood is thus important. One key aspect of goal-directed decision-making is anticipating the consequences of one's actions, a process that likely involves the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). In rodents, developmental cocaine exposure weakens action-consequence decision-making, causing a deferral to familiar, habit-like behavioral response strategies. Here, we report that we can improve memory for action-consequence relationships by stimulating neurotrophic factors, which support cell survival, development, and plasticity in the brain. With strengthened action-consequence associations, cocaine-exposed mice regain the ability to optimally select actions based on their likely outcomes. Brain region-selective manipulations reveal that neurotrophin systems in the OFC are necessary for stable memory of action-consequence relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth G Pitts
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Elizabeth T Barfield
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Ellen P Woon
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Shannon L Gourley
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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165
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de Wit H, Bershad AK. MDMA enhances pleasantness of affective touch. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020; 45:217-239. [PMID: 31391575 PMCID: PMC6879524 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-019-0473-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Harriet de Wit
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Anya K. Bershad
- 0000 0000 9632 6718grid.19006.3eDepartment of Psychiatry, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA USA
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166
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Exploring the case for research on incorporating psychedelics within interventions for borderline personality disorder. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2019.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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167
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Pantoni MM, Anagnostaras SG. Cognitive Effects of MDMA in Laboratory Animals: A Systematic Review Focusing on Dose. Pharmacol Rev 2019; 71:413-449. [PMID: 31249067 DOI: 10.1124/pr.118.017087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
±3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a synthetic, psychoactive drug that is primarily used recreationally but also may have some therapeutic value. At low doses, MDMA produces feelings of relaxation, empathy, emotional closeness, and euphoria. Higher doses can produce unpleasant psychostimulant- and hallucinogen-like adverse effects and therefore are usually not taken intentionally. There is considerable evidence that MDMA produces neurotoxicity and cognitive deficits at high doses; however, these findings may not generalize to typical recreational or therapeutic use of low-dose MDMA. Here, we systematically review 25 years of research on the cognitive effects of MDMA in animals, with a critical focus on dose. We found no evidence that doses of less than 3 mg/kg MDMA-the dose range that users typically take-produce cognitive deficits in animals. Doses of 3 mg/kg or greater, which were administered most often and frequently ranged from 5 to 20 times greater than an average dose, also did not produce cognitive deficits in a slight majority of experiments. Overall, the preclinical evidence of MDMA-induced cognitive deficits is weak and, if anything, may be the result of unrealistically high dosing. While factors associated with recreational use such as polydrug use, adulterants, hyperthermia, and hyponatremia can increase the potential for neurotoxicity, the short-term, infrequent, therapeutic use of ultra low-dose MDMA is unlikely to pose significant cognitive risks. Future studies must examine any adverse cognitive effects of MDMA using clinically relevant doses to reliably assess its potential as a psychotherapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline M Pantoni
- Molecular Cognition Laboratory, Department of Psychology (M.M.P., S.G.A.) and Program in Neurosciences (S.G.A.), University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Stephan G Anagnostaras
- Molecular Cognition Laboratory, Department of Psychology (M.M.P., S.G.A.) and Program in Neurosciences (S.G.A.), University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
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168
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Corne R, Mongeau R. [Neurotrophic mechanisms of psychedelic therapy]. Biol Aujourdhui 2019; 213:121-129. [PMID: 31829932 DOI: 10.1051/jbio/2019015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs, often referred to as hallucinogens, are quite distinct from other classes of psychotropic drugs. Although the subjective and behavioral effects they induce are quite dramatic, they possess little addictive potential when compared to nicotine, alcohol or opiates. Since the discovery of ketamine antidepressant effects, there has been growing interest for these molecules. Serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) are gaining attention as potential treatments for depression and addiction, similarly to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and ibogaine for addiction. Although they possess distinct pharmacological profiles, their kinetics of action are quite similar: the therapeutic effects are felt within the hours following administration, and last well beyond drug elimination by the organism. This strongly suggests the induction of neurogenic and plastic mechanisms, including the involvement of trophic factors. This review will explore the literature dealing with the effects of psychedelics on neurotrophins, as well as the plastic adaptations that they induce, in an attempt to understand their surprising therapeutic potential. We will show that although ketamine and serotonergic psychedelics have affinity for very different receptors (NMDA, 5-HT2A), they ultimately initiate similar plastic adaptations in the prefrontal cortex through the involvement of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). We will see that although MDMA uses the same receptors as serotonergic psychedelics to alleviate PTSD symptoms, its effect on BDNF levels seem paradoxical and quite different. Finally, we show how ibogaine could exert its anti-addictive properties through a completely different neurotrophic factor than other psychedelic drugs, the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). While the current literature concerning the psychiatric applications of psychedelic therapy is encouraging, it remains to be determined whether their benefits could be obtained without their psychotomimetic effects, or concerns over potential toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rémi Corne
- CNRS ERL 3649 « Neuroplasticité et thérapies des addictions », UMR-S 1124, Université Paris Descartes, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Raymond Mongeau
- CNRS ERL 3649 « Neuroplasticité et thérapies des addictions », UMR-S 1124, Université Paris Descartes, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
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169
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Chitre NM, Bagwell MS, Murnane KS. The acute toxic and neurotoxic effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine are more pronounced in adolescent than adult mice. Behav Brain Res 2019; 380:112413. [PMID: 31809766 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.112413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) recently achieved breakthrough status from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, evidence indicates that exposure to toxic doses of MDMA can lead to long-lasting dysregulation of brain monoaminergic neurotransmitters, primarily from studies conducted in young adult rodents. To date, there is a paucity of data on whether toxic doses of MDMA can differentially affect neurotransmitter systems in adolescents and mature adults, which is an important question as adolescents and adults may be differentially vulnerable to MDMA abuse. In the current study, adolescent (6-7 weeks of age) and mature adult (16-18 weeks of age) male, Swiss-Webster mice were exposed to MDMA (20 mg/kg) using a binge-like dosing regimen (4 administrations spaced every 2 h). Acute lethality, acute hyperthermia, and acute decreases in body weight following MDMA administration were more pronounced in adolescent than adult mice. Likewise, acute loss of striatal dopamine neurochemistry was also exacerbated in adolescents, as determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography coupled to electrochemical detection. Exposure to MDMA induced greater turnover of dopamine into its major metabolite dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in adolescents, but not in adults, suggesting a novel mechanism through which adolescents may show increased vulnerability to the acute toxic and neurotoxic effects of MDMA, or conversely that mature adults show greater protection. These data caution that MDMA exposure in adolescence may be particularly dangerous and that the therapeutic window for MDMA may differ between adolescents and mature adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Milind Chitre
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mercer University College of Pharmacy, Mercer University Health Sciences Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Monique Simone Bagwell
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mercer University College of Pharmacy, Mercer University Health Sciences Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kevin Sean Murnane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mercer University College of Pharmacy, Mercer University Health Sciences Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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170
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Evaluation of phenylethylamine type entactogens and their metabolites relevant to ecotoxicology - a QSAR study. ACTA PHARMACEUTICA (ZAGREB, CROATIA) 2019; 69:563-584. [PMID: 31639096 DOI: 10.2478/acph-2019-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The impact of the selected entactogens and their o-quinone metabolites on the environment was explored in QSAR studies by the use of predicted molecular descriptors, ADMET properties and environmental toxicity parameters, i.e., acute toxicity in Tetrahymena pyriformis (TOX_ATTP) expressed as Th_pyr_pIGC50/mmol L-1, acute toxicity in Pimephales promelas, the fathead minnow (TOX_FHM) expressed as Minnow LC50/mg L-1, the acute toxicity in Daphnia magna (TOX_DM) expressed as Daphnia LC50/mg L-1 and bioconcentration factor (BCF). The formation of corresponding o-quinones via benzo-dioxo-lone ring, O-demethylenation was predicted as the main metabolic pathway for all entactogens except for 1-(2,2-difluorobenzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)propan-2-amine (DiFMDA). The least favourable ADMET profile was revealed for N-(1-(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)propan-2-yl)-O-methylhydroxylamine (MDMEO). QSAR studies revealed significant linear correlations between MlogP of entactogens and MlogP of o-quinone metabolites (R = 0.99), and Th_pyr_pIGC50/mmol L-1 (R = 0.94), also their MlogPs with Minnow_LC50/mg L-1 (R = 0.80 and R = 0.78), BCF (R = 0.86 and R = 0.82) and percentage of o-quinones' yields (R = 0.73 and R = 0.80). Entactogens were predicted as non-biodegradable molecules, whereas the majority of their o-quinones were biodegradable.
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171
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Sonis J, Cook JM. Medication versus trauma-focused psychotherapy for adults with posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2019; 282:112637. [PMID: 31690461 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.112637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to summarize evidence from head-to-head randomized trials for treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adults comparing trauma-focused psychotherapies and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) in a systematic review and meta-analysis. We conducted a search of multiple databases to identify trials comparing a trauma-focused psychotherapy (cognitive behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure, cognitive therapy, cognitive processing therapy or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) to an SSRI or SNRI. Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 was used to assess risk of bias; high risk of bias trials were included only in sensitivity analyses. PTSD symptom reduction was the primary outcome. Four trials met inclusion criteria. Random effects meta-analysis of the two trials that were not high risk of bias showed no difference in PTSD symptom reduction, but a wide confidence interval, including effects favoring psychotherapy and effects favoring medication. Heterogeneity was high. Inclusion of the two high risk of bias trials did not change substantive conclusions. There is insufficient evidence to determine whether SSRIs or trauma-focused psychotherapies are more effective for PTSD symptom reduction among adults with PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Sonis
- Department of Social Medicine, CB#7240 School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, N.C., USA.
| | - Joan M Cook
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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172
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Abstract
Animal studies have demonstrated that catecholamines regulate several aspects of fear conditioning. In humans, however, pharmacological manipulations of the catecholaminergic system have been scarce, and their primary focus has been to interfering with catecholaminergic activity after fear acquisition or expression had taken place, using L-Dopa, primarily, as catecholaminergic precursor. Here, we sought to determine if putative increases in presynaptic dopamine and norepinephrine by tyrosine administered before conditioning could affect fear expression. Electrodermal activity (EDA) of 46 healthy participants (24 placebo, 22 tyrosine) was measured in an instructed fear task. Results showed that tyrosine abolished fear expression compared to placebo. Importantly, tyrosine did not affect EDA responses to the aversive stimulus (UCS) or alter participants’ mood. Therefore, the effect of tyrosine on fear expression cannot be attributed to these factors. Taken together, these findings provide evidence that the catecholaminergic system influences fear expression in humans.
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173
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Bryant RA. Post-traumatic stress disorder: a state-of-the-art review of evidence and challenges. World Psychiatry 2019; 18:259-269. [PMID: 31496089 PMCID: PMC6732680 DOI: 10.1002/wps.20656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 209] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is arguably the most common psychiatric disorder to arise after exposure to a traumatic event. Since its formal introduction in the DSM-III in 1980, knowledge has grown significantly regarding its causes, maintaining mechanisms and treatments. Despite this increased understanding, however, the actual definition of the disorder remains controversial. The DSM-5 and ICD-11 define the disorder differently, reflecting disagreements in the field about whether the construct of PTSD should encompass a broad array of psychological manifestations that arise after trauma or should be focused more specifically on trauma memory phenomena. This controversy over clarifying the phenotype of PTSD has limited the capacity to identify biomarkers and specific mechanisms of traumatic stress. This review provides an up-to-date outline of the current definitions of PTSD, its known prevalence and risk factors, the main models to explain the disorder, and evidence-supported treatments. A major conclusion is that, although trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy is the best-validated treatment for PTSD, it has stagnated over recent decades, and only two-thirds of PTSD patients respond adequately to this intervention. Moreover, most people with PTSD do not access evidence-based treatment, and this situation is much worse in low- and middle-income countries. Identifying processes that can overcome these major barriers to better management of people with PTSD remains an outstanding challenge.
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174
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Neitzke-Spruill L. Race as a component of set and setting: How experiences of race can influence psychedelic experiences. JOURNAL OF PSYCHEDELIC STUDIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1556/2054.2019.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Background and aims
Set and setting function both as a concept that guides research and practice with psychedelic drugs and as a meme aimed at reducing harm among psychedelic users. Referring to non-pharmacological factors that shape drug experiences, the concept of set and setting was popularized in the West during the mid-20th century. However, little theoretical development has occurred regarding what falls under the umbrella of set and setting since its conception.
Methods
By bridging set and setting theory with research from the fields of social psychology and sociology of medicine, this review calls attention to how race can contribute the set and setting for a psychedelic experience.
Results
I argue that psychosocial factors influencing racial differences in mental health also constitute meaningful differences in set. Furthermore, I suggest that the character of race relations in the United States provides a distinct cultural setting for racialized psychedelic users, both in therapeutic and naturalistic contexts. In turn, racial identification may contribute to the variation in framing and interpretation of psychedelic experiences.
Conclusion
These considerations have important implications beyond understanding non-pharmacological influences on psychedelic experiences, including developing protocols for clinical applications of psychedelics, educating future practitioners, and meeting the needs of diverse patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan Neitzke-Spruill
- 1 Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
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175
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Lee WK, Hayashi K, DeBeck K, Milloy MJS, Grant C, Wood E, Kerr T. Association between posttraumatic stress disorder and nonfatal drug overdose. PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA-THEORY RESEARCH PRACTICE AND POLICY 2019; 12:373-380. [PMID: 31524428 DOI: 10.1037/tra0000511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE North America is in the midst of a growing drug overdose crisis. While prescription opioid misuse and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl have been implicated in the overdose crisis, less attention has been given to the role that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may play in this crisis. As such, this study sought to examine the relationship between PTSD and risk of nonfatal overdose among people who use drugs (PWUD). METHOD Data were derived from three prospective cohorts of PWUD in Vancouver, Canada. For each participant, PTSD was assessed using the PTSD Checklist for the DSM-5. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the relationship between PTSD and nonfatal overdose, adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS Between 2016 and 2018 among 1,059 PWUD, including 363 (34%) nonmale participants, 171 (16%) experienced a nonfatal drug overdose in the past 6 months, and 414 (39%) met criteria for a provisional PTSD diagnosis. In multivariate analysis, PTSD (adjusted odds ratio = 1.98, 95% confidence interval [1.4, 2.79]) remained independently associated with nonfatal overdose after adjustment for a range of confounders. CONCLUSIONS Among participants in these community-recruited cohorts of PWUD, having a provisional PTSD diagnosis nearly doubled the risk of nonfatal overdose. The findings from this study support the need to incorporate a trauma-informed approach within the current overdose prevention framework. Education and training relating to trauma and PTSD should be prioritized for health care professionals who work with and treat PWUD. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use
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176
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DePierro J, Lepow L, Feder A, Yehuda R. Translating Molecular and Neuroendocrine Findings in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Resilience to Novel Therapies. Biol Psychiatry 2019; 86:454-463. [PMID: 31466562 PMCID: PMC6907400 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2019.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Many biological systems are altered in association with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and resilience. However, there are only few approved pharmacological treatments for PTSD, and no approved medications to enhance resilience. This article provides a critical review of select neurobiological findings in PTSD and resilience, and also of pharmacologic approaches that have emerged from this work. The medications summarized involve engagement with targets in the adrenergic, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and neuropeptide Y systems. Other highlighted approaches involve the use of ketamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted psychotherapy, which recently surfaced as promising strategies for PTSD, though the neurobiological mechanisms underlying their actions, including for promoting resilience, are not yet fully understood. The former approaches fall within the broad concept of "rational pharmacotherapy," in that they attempt to directly target dysregulated systems known to be associated with posttraumatic symptoms. To the extent that use of ketamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine promotes symptom improvement and resilience in PTSD, this provides an opportunity for reverse translation and identification of relevant targets and mechanisms of action through careful study of biological changes resulting from these interventions. Promoting resilience in trauma-exposed individuals may involve more than pharmacologically manipulating dysregulated molecules and pathways associated with developing and sustaining PTSD symptom severity, but also producing a substantial change in mental state that increases the ability to engage with traumatic material in psychotherapy. Neurobiological examination in the context of treatment studies may yield novel targets and promote a greater understanding of mechanisms of recovery from trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan DePierro
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Lauren Lepow
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Adriana Feder
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Rachel Yehuda
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Department of Psychiatry, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York.
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177
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Hutten NRPW, Mason NL, Dolder PC, Kuypers KPC. Self-Rated Effectiveness of Microdosing With Psychedelics for Mental and Physical Health Problems Among Microdosers. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:672. [PMID: 31572246 PMCID: PMC6753862 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a growing interest in the use of psychedelic substances for health related purposes, including symptom relief for disorders like anxiety, depression, and pain. Although the focus of recent clinical trials has been on high doses of these substances, anecdotal evidence suggests that low (micro) doses are also effective, and may be more suitable for certain conditions. Nonetheless, empirical evidence regarding the efficacy of microdosing with psychedelics for symptomatic relief is lacking. The present study aimed to investigate, by means of an online questionnaire, the self-rated effectiveness (SRE) of microdosing with psychedelics (MDP) for mental and physiological disorders compared to the conventional prescribed treatment and to regular doses of psychedelics. Methods: An online questionnaire was launched on several websites and fora between March and July 2018. Respondents who had consented, were 18 years of age or older, had experience with microdosing and were diagnosed with at least one mental or physiological disorder by a medical doctor or therapist (N = 410; 7.2%) were included in the analyses. Odds ratio were calculated to compare the SRE of MDP with conventional treatment, and regular psychedelic doses for mental and physiological diagnoses for each of the three effectiveness questions ("Did it work," "Symptom disappear," "Quality of life improved"). Results: Odds ratio showed that SRE of MDP was significantly higher compared to that of conventional treatments for both mental and physiological diagnoses; and that these effects were specific for ADHD/ADD and anxiety disorders. In contrast, SRE of MDP was lower compared to that of higher, regular psychedelic doses for mental disorders such as anxiety and depression, while for physiological disorders no difference was shown. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that SRE of MDP to alleviate symptoms of a range of mental or physiological diagnoses is higher compared to conventionally offered treatment options, and lower than regular ('full') psychedelic doses. Future RCTs in patient populations should objectively assess the effectivity claims of psychedelics, and whether these are dose related, disorder specific, and superior to conventional treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia R. P. W. Hutten
- Department of Neuropsychology & Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology & Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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178
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Effects of MDMA on attention to positive social cues and pleasantness of affective touch. Neuropsychopharmacology 2019; 44:1698-1705. [PMID: 31042696 PMCID: PMC6785008 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-019-0402-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The psychostimulant drug ±3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) reportedly produces distinctive feelings of empathy and closeness with others. MDMA increases social behavior in animal models and has shown promise in psychiatric disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). How it produces these prosocial effects is not known. This behavioral and psychophysiological study examined the effects of MDMA, compared with the prototypical stimulant methamphetamine (MA), on two measures of social behavior in healthy young adults: (i) responses to socially relevant, "affective" touch, and (ii) visual attention to emotional faces. Men and women (N = 36) attended four sessions in which they received MDMA (0.75 or 1.5 mg/kg), MA (20 mg), or a placebo in randomized order under double-blind conditions. Responses to experienced and observed affective touch (i.e., being touched or watching others being touched) were assessed using facial electromyography (EMG), a proxy of affective state. Responses to emotional faces were assessed using electrooculography (EOG) in a measure of attentional bias. Subjective ratings were also included. We hypothesized that MDMA, but not MA, would enhance the ratings of pleasantness and psychophysiological responses to affective touch and increase attentional bias toward positive facial expressions. Consistent with this, we found that MDMA, but not MA, selectively enhanced ratings of pleasantness of experienced affective touch. Neither drug altered the ratings of pleasantness of observed touch. On the EOG measure of attentional bias, MDMA, but not MA, increased attention toward happy faces. These results provide new evidence that MDMA can enhance the experience of positive social interactions; in this case, pleasantness of physical touch and attentional bias toward positive facial expressions. The findings are consistent with evidence that the prosocial effects are unique to MDMA relative to another stimulant. Understanding the behavioral and neurobiological processes underlying the distinctive social effects of MDMA is a key step to developing the drug for psychiatric disorders.
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Mithoefer MC, Feduccia AA, Jerome L, Mithoefer A, Wagner M, Walsh Z, Hamilton S, Yazar-Klosinski B, Emerson A, Doblin R. MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for treatment of PTSD: study design and rationale for phase 3 trials based on pooled analysis of six phase 2 randomized controlled trials. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:2735-2745. [PMID: 31065731 PMCID: PMC6695343 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05249-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 192] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder is a prevalent mental health condition with substantial impact on daily functioning that lacks sufficient treatment options. Here we evaluate six phase 2 trials in a pooled analysis to determine the study design for phase 3 trials of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD. METHODS Six randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trials at five study sites were conducted from April 2004 to February 2017. Active doses of MDMA (75-125 mg, n = 72) or placebo/control doses (0-40 mg, n = 31) were administered to individuals with PTSD during manualized psychotherapy sessions in two or three 8-h sessions spaced a month apart. Three non-drug 90-min therapy sessions preceded the first MDMA exposure, and three to four followed each experimental session. RESULTS After two blinded experimental sessions, the active group had significantly greater reductions in CAPS-IV total scores from baseline than the control group [MMRM estimated mean difference (SE) between groups - 22.0 (5.17), P < 0.001]. The between-group Cohen's d effect size was 0.8, indicating a large treatment effect. After two experimental sessions, more participants in the active group (54.2%) did not meet CAPS-IV PTSD diagnostic criteria than the control group (22.6%). Depression symptom improvement on the BDI-II was greatest for the active group compared to the control group, although only trended towards significant group differences [MMRM, estimated mean difference (SE) between groups - 6.0 (3.03), P = 0.053]. All doses of MDMA were well tolerated, with some expected reactions occurring at greater frequency for the active MDMA group during experimental sessions and the 7 days following. CONCLUSIONS MDMA-assisted psychotherapy was efficacious and well tolerated in a large sample of adults with PTSD. These studies supported expansion into phase 3 trials and led to FDA granting Breakthrough Therapy designation for this promising treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00090064, NCT00353938, NCT01958593, NCT01211405, NCT01689740, NCT01793610.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lisa Jerome
- MAPS Public Benefit Corporation, 1115 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | | | - Mark Wagner
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Zach Walsh
- University of British Columbia-Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Scott Hamilton
- Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Amy Emerson
- MAPS Public Benefit Corporation, 1115 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | - Rick Doblin
- Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
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180
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Merz J, Schwarzer G, Gerger H. Comparative Efficacy and Acceptability of Pharmacological, Psychotherapeutic, and Combination Treatments in Adults With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Network Meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry 2019; 76:904-913. [PMID: 31188399 PMCID: PMC6563588 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.0951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent mental disorder, with a high risk of chronicity, comorbidity, and functional impairment; PTSD is complicated to treat, and the debate on the best treatment approach is ongoing. OBJECTIVE To examine comparative outcomes and acceptability of psychotherapeutic and pharmacological treatments and their combinations in adults with PTSD. DATA SOURCES Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, and PSYNDEX were searched for studies published from January 1, 1980, to February 28, 2018. Reference lists of included studies and of previously published guidelines and systematic reviews were also searched. STUDY SELECTION Of 11 417 records identified, 12 published randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comprising 922 participants, contributing 23 direct comparisons between psychotherapeutic and pharmacological treatments or their combinations were included. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Standardized mean differences (SMDs) and odds ratios were aggregated using random-effects network and pairwise meta-analyses. Risk of bias and indirectness was rated for each study, and network confidence was rated using the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis framework. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was the comparative benefit between 2 treatment approaches to PTSD symptom improvement, and secondary outcome was the comparative acceptability of the treatment approaches, as indicated by patient dropout rates before treatment termination. RESULTS No treatment approach was found to be superior at the end of treatment (for all, 95% CI included 0). At the last follow-up, psychotherapeutic treatments showed greater benefit than pharmacological treatments in both network (SMD, -0.83; 95% CI, -1.59 to -0.07) and pairwise (SMD, -0.63; 95% CI, -1.18 to -0.09, 3 RCTs) meta-analyses. No difference was found between combined treatments and psychotherapeutic treatments at long-term follow-up, and combined treatments were associated with better outcomes than pharmacological treatments in the network meta-analysis (SMD, -0.96; 95% CI, -1.87 to -0.04), but not in the pairwise meta-analysis, which included 2 RCTs (SMD, -1.02; 95% CI, -2.77 to 0.72). No evidence was found for differential acceptability of the 3 treatment approaches. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE These results suggest superiority of psychotherapeutic treatments over pharmacological treatments; network, but not pairwise, meta-analyses suggest superiority of combined treatments over pharmacological treatments in improving PTSD symptom severity in the long term. The scarcity of reported long-term findings hampers definite conclusions and demonstrates the need for robust evidence from large-scaled comparative trials providing long-term follow-up data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Merz
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Guido Schwarzer
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Statistics, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Heike Gerger
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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181
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Williams MT, Reed S, Aggarwal R. Culturally informed research design issues in a study for MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder. JOURNAL OF PSYCHEDELIC STUDIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1556/2054.2019.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Recent research suggests that psychedelic drugs can be powerful agents of change when utilized in conjunction with psychotherapy. Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy has been studied as a means of helping people overcome posttraumatic stress disorder, believed to work by reducing fear of traumatic memories and increasing feelings of trust and compassion toward others, without inhibiting access to difficult emotions. However, research studies for psychedelic psychotherapies have largely excluded people of color, leaving important questions unaddressed for these populations. At the University of Connecticut, we participated as a study site in a MAPS-sponsored, FDA-reviewed Phase 2 open-label multisite study, with a focus on providing culturally informed care to people of color. We discuss the development of a study site focused on the ethnic minority trauma experience, including assessment of racial trauma, design of informed consent documents to improve understanding and acceptability to people of color, diversification of the treatment team, ongoing training for team members, validation of participant experiences of racial oppression at a cultural and individual level, examination of the setting and music used during sessions for cultural congruence, training for the independent rater pool, community outreach, and institutional resistance. We also discuss next steps in ensuring that access to culturally informed care is prioritized as MDMA and other psychedelics move into late phase trials, including the importance of diverse sites and training focused on therapy providers of color.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monnica T. Williams
- 1 Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
- 2 School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sara Reed
- 1 Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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182
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Ching THW. Intersectional insights from an MDMA-assisted psychotherapy training trial: An open letter to racial/ethnic and sexual/gender minorities. JOURNAL OF PSYCHEDELIC STUDIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1556/2054.2019.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The road to the current psychedelic renaissance in research on ±3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) – the active ingredient of the drug Ecstasy – for addressing treatment-resistant post-traumatic stress disorder has been fraught with political and academic bias, as well as cultural stigma among underserved populations, all of which serve as barriers to minority inclusion and participation. In this open letter to ethnic/racial and sexual/gender minorities, the author details intersectional insights from his own experience being administered MDMA legally as part of a therapist training trial for MDMA-assisted psychotherapy, in hopes of radically destigmatizing this treatment approach for marginalized populations. Themes covered include: set and setting; cultural pride; LGBTQIA+ pride; acceptance of intersectionality; and patience, perspective, and strength in retrospection. This letter concludes by tasking current investigators of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy to emphasize issues of intersecting identities (e.g., in terms of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity) in their research agenda, attempt to improve minority participation in a culturally attuned manner, as well as increase minority stakeholdership in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terence H. W. Ching
- 1 Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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183
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Michael T, Schanz CG, Mattheus HK, Issler T, Frommberger U, Köllner V, Equit M. Do adjuvant interventions improve treatment outcome in adult patients with posttraumatic stress disorder receiving trauma-focused psychotherapy? A systematic review. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2019; 10:1634938. [PMID: 31489131 PMCID: PMC6711134 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2019.1634938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: According to clinical guidelines, trauma-focused psychotherapies (TF-PT) such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are recommended as first-line treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). TF-CBT and EMDR are equally effective and have large effect sizes. However, many patients fail to respond or have comorbid symptoms or disorders that only partially decline with TF-PT. Thus, there is growing interest in augmenting TF-PT through adjuvant interventions. Objective: The current systematic review aims to assess whether adjuvant interventions improve outcome among adult PTSD patients receiving TF-PT. Methods: We searched the databases PubMed, PILOTS, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library for controlled clinical trials examining whether adjuvant interventions lead to more symptom reduction in adult PTSD patients receiving TF-PT. Thirteen randomized controlled trials fitted the inclusion criteria. These were evaluated for internal risk of bias using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Review of Interventions. Results: Most studies have a substantial risk for internal bias, mainly due to small sample sizes. Thus, no strong conclusion can be drawn from the current empirical evidence. Preliminary evidence suggests that exercise and cortisol administration may have an adjuvant effect on PTSD symptom reduction. Breathing biofeedback showed a trend for an adjuvant effect and an effect for accelerated symptom reduction. Conclusions: Currently, it is not possible to formulate evidence-based clinical recommendations regarding adjuvants interventions. While several adjuvant interventions hold the potential to boost the effectiveness of TF-PT, the realization of sufficiently powered studies is crucial to separate plausible ideas from interventions proven to work in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Michael
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Christian G. Schanz
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Hannah K. Mattheus
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Issler
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Ulrich Frommberger
- MediClin Department for Psychotraumatology, Durbach, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Volker Köllner
- Department of Behavioural Therapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Rehabilitation Center Seehof, Teltow, Germany
- Psychosomatic Rehabilitation Research Group, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Monika Equit
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
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184
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Vizeli P, Meyer zu Schwabedissen HE, Liechti ME. Role of Serotonin Transporter and Receptor Gene Variations in the Acute Effects of MDMA in Healthy Subjects. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:3120-3131. [PMID: 30589533 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; ecstasy) is used recreationally and has been investigated as an adjunct to psychotherapy. Most acute effects of MDMA can be attributed to activation of the serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) system. Genetic variants, such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and polymorphic regions in 5-HT system genes, may contribute to interindividual differences in the acute effects of MDMA. We characterized the effects of common genetic variants within selected genes that encode the 5-HT system (TPH1 [tryptophan 5-hydroxylase 1] rs1800532 and rs1799913, TPH2 [tryptophan 5-hydroxylase 2] rs7305115, HTR1A [5-HT1A receptor] rs6295, HTR1B [5-HT1B receptor] rs6296, HTR2A [5-HT2A receptor] rs6313, and SLC6A4 [serotonin transporter] 5-HTTLPR and rs25531) on the physiological and subjective response to 125 mg of MDMA compared with placebo in 124 healthy subjects. Data were pooled from eight randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies that were conducted in the same laboratory. TPH2 rs7305115, HTR2A rs6313, and SLC6A4 5-HTTLPR polymorphisms tended to moderately alter some effects of MDMA. However, after correcting for multiple comparisons, none of the tested genetic polymorphisms significantly influenced the response to MDMA. Variations in genes that encode key targets in the 5-HT system did not significantly influence the effects of MDMA in healthy subjects. Interindividual differences in the 5-HT system may thus play a marginal role when MDMA is used recreationally or therapeutically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Vizeli
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine, Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel CH-4056, Switzerland
| | | | - Matthias E. Liechti
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine, Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel CH-4056, Switzerland
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185
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Sessa B, Sakal C, O'Brien S, Nutt D. First study of safety and tolerability of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy in patients with alcohol use disorder: preliminary data on the first four participants. BMJ Case Rep 2019; 12:12/7/e230109. [PMID: 31308191 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2019-230109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We present the preliminary data in an ongoing open-label safety and tolerability proof of concept study exploring the potential role for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy in treating patients with alcohol use disorder. At this stage, seven participants have completed the full 8-week MDMA-assisted psychotherapy course, including two therapy sessions each with MDMA. This paper focuses on the safety and tolerability of the therapeutic course for the first four participants to complete treatment. Longer-term outcomes of drinking behaviour will be presented later when the full project data are published. Results show all four participants have successfully tolerated the treatment. There have been no serious adverse events related to MDMA, no unexpected physiological responses to the MDMA sessions or changes to blood results or electrocardiograms, measured before and after the 8-week course. We conclude that the treatment is well- tolerated and are making plans to expand the project into a randomised placebo-controlled study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Sessa
- Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Chloe Sakal
- Department of Medicine, Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, Bath, UK
| | - Steve O'Brien
- Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - David Nutt
- Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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186
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George JR, Michaels TI, Sevelius J, Williams MT. The psychedelic renaissance and the limitations of a White-dominant medical framework: A call for indigenous and ethnic minority inclusion. JOURNAL OF PSYCHEDELIC STUDIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1556/2054.2019.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the study of psychedelic science has resurfaced as scientists and therapists are again exploring its potential to treat an array of psychiatric conditions, such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and addiction. The scientific progress and clinical promise of this movement owes much of its success to the history of indigenous healing practices; yet the work of indigenous people, ethnic and racial minorities, women, and other disenfranchised groups is often not supported or highlighted in the mainstream narrative of psychedelic medicine. This review addresses this issue directly: first, by highlighting the traditional role of psychedelic plants and briefly summarizing the history of psychedelic medicine; second, through exploring the historical and sociocultural factors that have contributed to unequal research participation and treatment, thereby limiting the opportunities for minorities who ought to be acknowledged for their contributions. Finally, this review provides recommendations for broadening the Western medical framework of healing to include a cultural focus and additional considerations for an inclusive approach to treatment development and dissemination for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamilah R. George
- 1 Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- 2 Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Timothy I. Michaels
- 2 Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Jae Sevelius
- 3 Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Monnica T. Williams
- 2 Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
- 4 School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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187
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Abstract
Resilience is defined as the dynamic ability to adapt successfully in the face of adversity, trauma, or significant threat. Some of the key early studies of resilience were observational studies in children. They were followed by research in adults, studies testing interventions to promote resilience in different populations, and a recent upsurge of studies on the underlying genomic and neurobiological mechanisms. Neural and molecular studies in preclinical models of resilience are also increasingly identifying active stress adaptations in resilient animals. Knowledge gained from animal and human studies of resilience can be harnessed to develop new preventive interventions to enhance resilience in at-risk populations. Further, treatment interventions focused on enhancing potentially modifiable protective factors that are consistently linked to psychological resilience can enrich currently available treatment interventions for individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Translating our expanding knowledge of the neurobiology of resilience additionally promises to yield novel therapeutic strategies for treating this disabling condition. This review summarizes the vast field of resilience research spanning genomic, psychosocial, and neurobiological levels, and discusses how findings have led and can lead to new preventive and treatment interventions for PTSD.
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188
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Danforth AL. Embracing Neurodiversity in Psychedelic Science: A Mixed-Methods Inquiry into the MDMA Experiences of Autistic Adults. J Psychoactive Drugs 2019; 51:146-154. [DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2019.1587116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alicia L. Danforth
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
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189
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Wagner AC, Mithoefer MC, Mithoefer AT, Monson CM. Combining Cognitive-Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD with 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA): A Case Example. J Psychoactive Drugs 2019; 51:166-173. [PMID: 30890035 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2019.1589028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have evolved significantly in the past 35 years. From what was historically viewed as a pervasive, intractable condition have emerged multiple evidence-based intervention options. These treatments, predominantly cognitive behavioral in orientation, provide significant symptom improvement in 50-60% of recipients. The treatment of PTSD with MDMA-assisted psychotherapy using a supportive, non-directive approach has yielded promising results. It is unknown, however, how different therapeutic modalities could impact or improve outcomes. Therefore, to capitalize on the strengths of both approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD (CBCT) was combined with MDMA in a small pilot trial. The current article provides a case study of one couple involved in the trial, chosen to provide a demographically representative example of the study participants and a case with a severe trauma history, to offer a detailed account of the methodology and choices made to integrate CBCT and MDMA, as well as an account of their experience through the treatment and their treatment gains. This article offers a description of the combination of CBCT for PTSD and MDMA, and demonstrates that it can produce reductions in PTSD symptoms and improvements in relationship satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C Wagner
- a Department of Psychology , Ryerson University , Toronto , Canada.,b Remedy , Toronto , Canada
| | | | | | - Candice M Monson
- a Department of Psychology , Ryerson University , Toronto , Canada
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190
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Barone W, Beck J, Mitsunaga-Whitten M, Perl P. Perceived Benefits of MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy beyond Symptom Reduction: Qualitative Follow-Up Study of a Clinical Trial for Individuals with Treatment-Resistant PTSD. J Psychoactive Drugs 2019; 51:199-208. [PMID: 30849288 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2019.1580805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
We present select findings from a long-term follow-up qualitative study of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for veterans, firefighters, and police officers suffering from chronic, treatment-resistant PTSD. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted at participants' one-year follow-up after a recently completed phase 2 clinical trial. Available interviews from 19 of 24 participants were analyzed. This qualitative analysis sought to complement, clarify, and expand upon the quantitative findings obtained from the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-IV) and supported by the Long-Term Follow-Up (LTFU) Questionnaire. Pertinent data from interview transcripts were coded and analyzed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) methodological framework. We explore prominent thematic elements from participant accounts to better understand the outcomes experienced in this trial. All participants reported experiencing lasting personal benefits and enhanced quality of life that extend beyond quantifiable symptom reduction. We explore a range of treatment benefits beyond symptom reduction to highlight the utility of qualitative investigations of the process and effects of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. Limitations and challenges encountered in conducting this study are discussed along with recommendations for improved qualitative research protocols in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Barone
- a John F. Kennedy University School of Professional Psychology , Pleasant Hill , CA , USA
| | - Jerome Beck
- b Comprehensive Drug Education Consultants (CDEC) , Portland , OR , USA
| | | | - Phillip Perl
- d Department of Sociomedical Sciences , Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health , New York , NY , USA
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191
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Dunlop BW, Wong A. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in PTSD: Pathophysiology and treatment interventions. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 89:361-379. [PMID: 30342071 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Questions of how altered functioning of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis contribute to the development and maintenance of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have been the focus of extensive animal and human research. As a rule, results have been inconsistent across studies, likely due to a variety of confounding variables that have received inadequate attention. Important confounding factors include the effects of early life stress, biological sex, and the glucocorticoid used for interventions. In this manuscript we review: 1) the literature on identified abnormalities of HPA axis function in PTSD, both in terms of basal functioning and as part of challenge paradigms; 2) the role of HPA axis function pre- and immediately post-trauma as a risk factor for PTSD development; 3) the impact of HPA axis genes' allelic variants and epigenetic modifications on PTSD risk; 4) the contributions of HPA axis components to fear learning and extinction; and 5) therapeutic manipulations of the HPA axis to both prevent and treat PTSD, including the role of glucocorticoids as part of medication enhanced psychotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boadie W Dunlop
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Andrea Wong
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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192
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Koek RJ, Luong TN. Theranostic pharmacology in PTSD: Neurobiology and timing. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 90:245-263. [PMID: 30529001 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Recent reviews and treatment guidelines regard trauma-focused cognitive-behavior therapies as the treatments of choice for chronic post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, many patients do not engage in this treatment when it is available, drop out before completion, or do not respond. Medications remain widely used, alone and in conjunction with psychotherapy, although the limitations of traditional monoamine-based pharmacotherapy are increasingly recognized. This article will review recent developments in psychopharmacology for PTSD, with a focus on current clinical data that apply putative neurobiologic mechanisms to medication use-i.e., a theranostic approach. A theranostic approach however, also requires consideration of timing, pre, peri or post trauma in conjunction with underlying dynamic processes affecting synaptic plasticity, the HPA axis, hippocampal activation, PFC-amygdala circuitry and fear memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph J Koek
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Sepulveda Ambulatory Care Center, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, North Hills, CA, USA.
| | - Tinh N Luong
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Olive View Medical Center, Sylmar, CA, USA
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193
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Postránecká Z, Vejmola Č, Tylš F. Psychedelic therapy in the Czech Republic: A theoretical concept or a realistic goal? JOURNAL OF PSYCHEDELIC STUDIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1556/2054.2019.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Čestmír Vejmola
- Czech Psychedelic Society, Klecany, Czech Republic
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
- 3rd Medical Faculty, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Filip Tylš
- Czech Psychedelic Society, Klecany, Czech Republic
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
- 3rd Medical Faculty, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
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194
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Abstract
BACKGROUND 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is widely known for its positive acute effects on social behaviour, such as increasing empathy, whilst also attenuating the negative impact of social exclusion. However there is a scarcity of research that investigates the long-term impact of recreational MDMA use on these fundamental social processes. METHOD Sixty-seven individuals were split into three groups based on their drug-use history: poly-drug MDMA users ( n = 25), poly-drug users who do not use MDMA ( n = 19), alcohol-only users ( n = 23), and were tested in an independent groups design. Participants completed both a self-report measure of emotional and cognitive empathy, along with the Multifaceted Empathy Task - a computerised assessment of empathy - and the Cyberball Game - a social exclusion paradigm. RESULTS MDMA users had significantly greater subjective emotional empathy, and greater cognitive empathy on the computer task compared with the poly-drug users who do not use MDMA. There were no significant differences in subjective responses to social exclusion between the groups. Indices of MDMA use did not correlate with empathy. CONCLUSIONS Long-term MDMA users in this sample exhibited normal psychosocial functioning in regard to empathy and social pain and had higher subjective emotional empathy. This conflicts with previous suggestions that moderate, long-term MDMA use may cause heightened social distress, and is further evidence of the safety of the drug, which is relevant to considerations of its therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Carlyle
- 1 Psychopharmacology and Addiction Research Centre (PARC), University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Tobias Stevens
- 1 Psychopharmacology and Addiction Research Centre (PARC), University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Leah Fawaz
- 1 Psychopharmacology and Addiction Research Centre (PARC), University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Beth Marsh
- 1 Psychopharmacology and Addiction Research Centre (PARC), University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.,2 Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sophia Kosmider
- 1 Psychopharmacology and Addiction Research Centre (PARC), University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Celia Ja Morgan
- 1 Psychopharmacology and Addiction Research Centre (PARC), University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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195
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Sáez-Briones P, Castro-Castillo V, Díaz-Véliz G, Valladares L, Barra R, Hernández A, Cassels BK. Aromatic Bromination Abolishes the Psychomotor Features and Pro-social Responses of MDMA ("Ecstasy") in Rats and Preserves Affinity for the Serotonin Transporter (SERT). Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:157. [PMID: 30873030 PMCID: PMC6403168 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The entactogen MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine, “Ecstasy”) exerts its psychotropic effects acting primarily as a substrate of the serotonin transporter (SERT) to induce a non-exocytotic release of serotonin. Nevertheless, the roles of specific positions of the aromatic ring of MDMA associated with the modulation of typical entactogenic effects, using analogs derived from the MDMA template, are still not fully understood. Among many possibilities, aromatic halogenation of the phenylalkylamine moiety may favor distribution to the brain due to increased lipophilicity, and sometimes renders psychotropic substances of high affinity for their molecular targets and high potency in humans. In the present work, a new MDMA analog brominated at C(2) of the aromatic ring (2-Br-4,5-MDMA) has been synthesized and pharmacologically characterized in vitro and in vivo. First, binding competition experiments against the SERT-blocker citalopram were carried out in human platelets and compared with MDMA. Besides, its effects on platelet aggregation were performed in platelet enriched human plasma using collagen as aggregation inductor. Second, as platelets are considered an appropriate peripheral model for estimating central serotonin availability, the functional effects of 2-Br-4,5-MDMA and MDMA on ATP release during human platelet aggregation were evaluated. The results obtained showed that 2-Br-4,5-MDMA exhibits higher affinity for SERT than MDMA and fully abolishes both platelet aggregation and ATP release, resembling the pharmacological profile of citalopram. Subsequent in vivo evaluation in rats at three dose levels showed that 2-Br-4,5-MDMA lacks all key MDMA-like behavioral responses in rats, including hyperlocomotion, enhanced active avoidance conditioning responses and increased social interaction. Taken together, the results obtained are consistent with the notion that 2-Br-4,5-MDMA should not be expected to be an MDMA-like substrate of SERT, indicating that aromatic bromination at C(2) modulates the pharmacodynamic properties of the substrate MDMA, yielding a citalopram-like compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricio Sáez-Briones
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Behavior, Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Vicente Castro-Castillo
- Department of Organic Chemistry and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gabriela Díaz-Véliz
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Luis Valladares
- Laboratory of Hormones and Receptors, Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología de los Alimentos (INTA), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rafael Barra
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Behavior, Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alejandro Hernández
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Bruce K Cassels
- Chemobiodynamics Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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196
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Methamphetamine regulates βAPP processing in human neuroblastoma cells. Neurosci Lett 2019; 701:20-25. [PMID: 30771376 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Methamphetamine is a potent and highly addictive psychostimulant whose abuse has turned out to be a global health hazard. The multitudinous effects it exerts at the cellular level induces neurotoxic responses in the human brain, ultimately leading to neurocognitive disorders. Strikingly, brain changes, tissue damage and neuropsychological symptoms due to Meth exposure compels and necessitates to link the probability of risk of developing premature Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by amyloid plaques composed of amyloid-β peptides and clinical dementia. These peptides are derived from sequential cleavages of the β-amyloid precursor protein by β- and γ-secretases. Previous studies reveals evidence for both positive and negative effects of Meth pertaining to cognitive functioning based on the dosage paradigm and duration of exposure revealing a beneficial psychotropic profile under some conditions and deleterious cognitive deficits under some others. In this context, we proposed to examine the effect of Meth on βAPP metabolism and βAPP-cleaving secretases in the human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line. Our results showed that Meth dose-dependently increases BACE1 expression and catalytic activity, while its effect on the α-cleavage of βAPP and on the expression and catalytic activity of the main α-secretase ADAM10 display a bell-curve shape. To our knowledge, the present study is the first to demonstrate that Meth can control βAPP-cleaving secretases. Moreover, we propose from these findings that the deleterious effect of Meth on cognitive decline might be an outcome of high dosage paradigm whereas acute and short-term drug use which stimulated sAPPα might produce improvements in cognition in disorders such as AD.
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197
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Hake HS, Davis JKP, Wood RR, Tanner MK, Loetz EC, Sanchez A, Ostrovskyy M, Oleson EB, Grigsby J, Doblin R, Greenwood BN. 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) impairs the extinction and reconsolidation of fear memory in rats. Physiol Behav 2019; 199:343-350. [PMID: 30529341 PMCID: PMC6557441 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2018.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Clinical trials have demonstrated that 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) paired with psychotherapy is more effective at reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than psychotherapy or pharmacotherapy, alone or in combination. The processes through which MDMA acts to enhance psychotherapy are not well understood. Given that fear memories contribute to PTSD symptomology, MDMA could augment psychotherapy by targeting fear memories. The current studies investigated the effects of a single administration of MDMA on extinction and reconsolidation of cued and contextual fear memory in adult, male Long-Evans rats. Rats were exposed to contextual or auditory fear conditioning followed by systemic administration of saline or varying doses of MDMA (between 1 and 10 mg/kg) either 30 min before fear extinction training or immediately after brief fear memory retrieval (i.e. during the reconsolidation phase). MDMA administered prior to fear extinction training failed to enhance fear extinction memory, and in fact impaired drug-free cued fear extinction recall without impacting later fear relapse. MDMA administered during the reconsolidation phase, but not outside of the reconsolidation phase, produced a delayed and persistent reduction in conditioned fear. These findings are consistent with a general memory-disrupting effect of MDMA and suggest that MDMA could augment psychotherapy by modifying fear memories during reconsolidation without necessarily enhancing their extinction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly S Hake
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA.
| | - Jazmyne K P Davis
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA.
| | - River R Wood
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA.
| | - Margaret K Tanner
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA.
| | - Esteban C Loetz
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA.
| | - Anais Sanchez
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA.
| | - Mykola Ostrovskyy
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA.
| | - Erik B Oleson
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA.
| | - Jim Grigsby
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Rick Doblin
- Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, 1115 Mission Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060-9989, USA
| | - Benjamin N Greenwood
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA.
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198
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Lebois LAM, Seligowski AV, Wolff JD, Hill SB, Ressler KJ. Augmentation of Extinction and Inhibitory Learning in Anxiety and Trauma-Related Disorders. Annu Rev Clin Psychol 2019; 15:257-284. [PMID: 30698994 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-050718-095634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Although the fear response is an adaptive response to threatening situations, a number of psychiatric disorders feature prominent fear-related symptoms caused, in part, by failures of extinction and inhibitory learning. The translational nature of fear conditioning paradigms has enabled us to develop a nuanced understanding of extinction and inhibitory learning based on the molecular substrates to systems neural circuitry and psychological mechanisms. This knowledge has facilitated the development of novel interventions that may augment extinction and inhibitory learning. These interventions include nonpharmacological techniques, such as behavioral methods to implement during psychotherapy, as well as device-based stimulation techniques that enhance or reduce activity in different regions of the brain. There is also emerging support for a number of psychopharmacological interventions that may augment extinction and inhibitory learning specifically if administered in conjunction with exposure-based psychotherapy. This growing body of research may offer promising novel techniques to address debilitating transdiagnostic fear-related symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A M Lebois
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts 02478, USA;
| | - Antonia V Seligowski
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts 02478, USA;
| | - Jonathan D Wolff
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts 02478, USA;
| | - Sarah B Hill
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts 02478, USA;
| | - Kerry J Ressler
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts 02478, USA;
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199
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Vizeli P, Liechti ME. No Influence of Dopamine System Gene Variations on Acute Effects of MDMA. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:755. [PMID: 31708815 PMCID: PMC6821788 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) is a recreational substance also investigated as medication for posttraumatic stress disorder. Dopamine (DA) system stimulation likely contributes to the acute mood effects of amphetamines, including MDMA. Genetic variants, such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and polymorphic regions of the DA system genes may in part explain interindividual differences in the acute responses to MDMA in humans. We characterized the effects of common genetic variants within genes coding for key players in the DA system including the dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2/ANKK1 rs1800497, DRD2 rs6277, and rs107959), the dopamine transporter (DAT1 rs28363170, rs3836790, rs6347, rs11133767, rs11564774, rs460000, and rs463379), and dopamine D4 receptor [DRD4, variable-number tandem repeat (VNTR)] on the subjective and autonomic response to MDMA (125 mg) in pooled data from randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover studies in a total of 149 healthy subjects. Plasma concentrations of MDMA were used as covariate in the analysis to control for individual pharmacokinetic (metabolic and weight) differences. None of the tested genetic polymorphisms within the DA system altered effects of MDMA when adjusting for multiple comparisons. Genetic variations in genes coding for players of the DA system are unlikely to explain interindividual variations in the acute effects of MDMA in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Vizeli
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine and Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine and Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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200
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Müller F, Brändle R, Liechti ME, Borgwardt S. Neuroimaging of chronic MDMA (“ecstasy”) effects: A meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 96:10-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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