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Geller J, Whitney E. Therapeutic Potential of MDMA- and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy for Adolescent Depression and Trauma. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2024:10.1007/s11920-024-01577-2. [PMID: 39699759 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-024-01577-2] [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] [Accepted: 12/04/2024] [Indexed: 12/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There is a mental health crisis affecting youth, and the utility of existing treatments is often limited by lack of effectiveness and tolerability. The aim of this review is to report on outcomes of clinical trials for psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for adults with depression and MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for adults with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and discuss recommendations for exploring these treatments in adolescent populations. RECENT FINDINGS There have been encouraging data supporting the use of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for depression, including previously treatment-resistant symptoms. MDMA-assisted psychotherapy is showing similar promise in treating PTSD, with excellent response and remission rates that appear durable. However, no studies have looked at the use of these treatments in younger patients. The safety and efficacy of psychedelic- and MDMA-assisted psychotherapies should be investigated in adolescents, especially considering the burden of untreated and undertreated psychiatric illness in youth, and the benefits of a potentially earlier, more effective, and more tolerable recovery process. Research and implementation should be tailored to the needs of this population, and equity and access should be considered at every stage. In this novel and rapidly evolving landscape, the psychiatric community is encouraged to advocate for safe, appropriate, and inclusive inquiry into, and application and scaling of these treatment models in adolescent patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamarie Geller
- The University of Michigan Department of Psychiatry, Ann Arbor, USA.
| | - Eric Whitney
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
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2
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Freitas RR, Gotsis ES, Gallo AT, Fitzgibbon BM, Bailey NW, Fitzgerald PB. The safety of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy: A systematic review. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2024:48674241289024. [PMID: 39670342 DOI: 10.1177/00048674241289024] [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] [Indexed: 12/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Psilocybin, a classical psychedelic, has been rescheduled for use in psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for treatment-resistant depression in Australia. While evidence for its use is promising, understanding the associated risks is crucial. Accordingly, this review aims to collate adverse event data from psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy clinical trials and evaluate its definition, way of measurement and reporting. METHODS A systematic method was employed to identify clinical trials related to the use of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy in clinical populations that reported on adverse events. The quality assessment focused on relevant criteria related to adverse event definition, monitoring and reporting methods. RESULTS A total of 24 articles were included. The studies reported heterogeneous psilocybin doses, study designs and indications. Physical and psychological adverse events during and after psilocybin sessions were examined, revealing variations in measuring, reporting methods and occurrences. The most common adverse events during and after sessions included elevated blood pressure, headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and anxiety. In addition, both suicidal ideation and behaviour were observed infrequently and mainly in participants with a history of suicidal ideation or suicide attempt(s). CONCLUSION The review highlights the need to standardise the defintion of an adverse event, including how they are measured and reported, in psychedelic clinical trials to ensure consistent reporting across studies. In addition, screening participants for suicidality history and ongoing monitoring remains important, given the potential risk identified in the literature. However, based on the available data, the safety of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy is generally supported, and no deaths were attributed to psilocybin. Nevertheless, cautious optimism is needed due to the preliminary nature and heterogeneity of the safety data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosana R Freitas
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Monarch Research Institute, Monarch Mental Health Group, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Efstathia S Gotsis
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Monarch Research Institute, Monarch Mental Health Group, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alexander T Gallo
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Monarch Research Institute, Monarch Mental Health Group, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Bernadette M Fitzgibbon
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Monarch Research Institute, Monarch Mental Health Group, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Neil W Bailey
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Monarch Research Institute, Monarch Mental Health Group, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul B Fitzgerald
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Monarch Research Institute, Monarch Mental Health Group, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Szpręgiel I, Bysiek A. Psilocybin and the glutamatergic pathway: implications for the treatment of neuropsychiatric diseases. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:1297-1304. [PMID: 39412581 PMCID: PMC11582295 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-024-00660-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2024] [Revised: 09/25/2024] [Accepted: 09/26/2024] [Indexed: 11/22/2024]
Abstract
In recent decades, psilocybin has gained attention as a potential drug for several mental disorders. Clinical and preclinical studies have provided evidence that psilocybin can be used as a fast-acting antidepressant. However, the exact mechanisms of action of psilocybin have not been clearly defined. Data show that psilocybin as an agonist of 5-HT2A receptors located in cortical pyramidal cells exerted a significant effect on glutamate (GLU) extracellular levels in both the frontal cortex and hippocampus. Increased GLU release from pyramidal cells in the prefrontal cortex results in increased activity of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic interneurons and, consequently, increased release of the GABA neurotransmitter. It seems that this mechanism appears to promote the antidepressant effects of psilocybin. By interacting with the glutamatergic pathway, psilocybin seems to participate also in the process of neuroplasticity. Therefore, the aim of this mini-review is to discuss the available literature data indicating the impact of psilocybin on glutamatergic neurotransmission and its therapeutic effects in the treatment of depression and other diseases of the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Szpręgiel
- Department of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Unit II, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, Kraków, 31-343, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Bysiek
- Department of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, Unit II, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, Kraków, 31-343, Poland
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O'Leary KB, Khan JS. Pharmacotherapy for Anxiety Disorders. Psychiatr Clin North Am 2024; 47:689-709. [PMID: 39505448 DOI: 10.1016/j.psc.2024.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2024]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric illness and include disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder (PD), and social anxiety disorder (SAD). Psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy are both effective treatments for anxiety disorders, with efficacy between 60% and 85%. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors are first-line pharmacologic treatment for GAD, PD, and SAD. Recommendations for treating pediatric and geriatric populations vary slightly, but first-line treatments remain the same. Recent advancements in the treatment of anxiety disorders are limited although research has discovered novel pathways, which may lead to additional treatment options in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry B O'Leary
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza - BCM350, Houston, TX 77030, USA. Kerry.O'
| | - Jeffrey S Khan
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Boulevard, E4.203. Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Méndez A, Maisto F, Pavlović J, Rusková M, Pangallo D, Sanmartín P. Microbiome shifts elicited by ornamental lighting of granite facades identified by MinION sequencing. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY. B, BIOLOGY 2024; 261:113065. [PMID: 39549663 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2024.113065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 09/07/2024] [Accepted: 11/07/2024] [Indexed: 11/18/2024]
Abstract
Night-time outdoor illumination in combination with natural sunlight can influence the visible phototrophic colonizers (mainly algae) growing on stone facades; however, the effects on the microbiome (invisible to the naked eye) are not clear. The presence of stone-dwelling microbes, such as bacteria, diatoms, fungi, viruses and archaea, drives further biological colonization, which may exacerbate the biodeterioration of substrates. Considering the microbiome is therefore important for conservation of the built heritage. The impact of the following types of lighting on the relative abundance and diversity of the microbiome on granite ashlars was evaluated in a year-long outdoor pilot study: no lighting; lighting with a metal halide lamp (a traditional lighting system currently used to illuminate monuments); and lighting with a novel LED lamp (an environmentally sound prototype lamp with a biostatic effect, halting biological colonization by phototrophs, currently under trial). Culturable fractions of microbiome and whole-genome sequencing by metabarcoding with Oxford Nanopore Sequencing (MinION) was conducted for bacteria and fungi in order to complement both community characterization strategies. In addition, the possible biodeteriorative profiles of the isolated strains, relative to calcium carbonate precipitation/solubilisation and iron oxidation/reduction, were investigated by plate assays. Alpha and beta diversity indexes were also determined, along with the abundance of biocide and antibiotic resistance genes. Culture-dependent microbiological analysis failed to properly show changes in community composition, for which metagenomic approaches like MinION are better suited. Thus, MinION analysis identified shifts in the granite microbiome elicited by ornamental lighting. The novel LED lamp with the biostatic effect on phototrophs caused an increase in the diversity of bacteria and fungi. In this case, the microbiome was more similar to that in the unlit samples. In the samples illuminated by the metal halide lamp, dominance of bacteria was favoured and the presence of fungi was negligible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anxo Méndez
- CRETUS. Gemap (GI-1243), Departamento de Edafoloxía e Química Agrícola, Facultade de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Francesca Maisto
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 21, 845 51 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Jelena Pavlović
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 21, 845 51 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Magdaléna Rusková
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 21, 845 51 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Domenico Pangallo
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 21, 845 51 Bratislava, Slovakia; Caravella, s.r.o., Tupolevova 2, 851 01 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Patricia Sanmartín
- CRETUS. Gemap (GI-1243), Departamento de Edafoloxía e Química Agrícola, Facultade de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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Morris SL. A Case Report of Psilocybin-induced Psychosis in a Predisposed Patient. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN COLLEGE OF NEUROPSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 22:684-687. [PMID: 39420616 PMCID: PMC11494431 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.24.1180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024]
Abstract
Psilocybin is gaining popularity as research shows potential benefits to those with anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Individuals with risk factors for psychosis are typically excluded from such studies, limiting the empiric research of the risks and benefits in vulnerable populations. In the real-world setting, many individuals who seek treatment with psilocybin will have comorbid psychiatric conditions and other factors that predispose them to psychosis. We report a case of a patient with multiple predisposing risk factors, including a history of depression, personality disorder traits, and cannabis use, who experienced a psychotic episode with catatonic features and suicidality after several months of heavy psilocybin use. A review of similar previously published case reports demonstrates a pattern of psilocybin-induced psychosis occurring primarily in individuals with predisposing factors who have consumed either high or repeated doses of the drug. This case report furthers this pattern, which serves as both a warning that psilocybin use is not without risks and reassurance for researchers using much lower doses to treat mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sorsha Lee Morris
- Mental Health Service, San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Negrine JJ, Puljević C, Ferris J, Liknaitzky P, Perlman C, Piatkowski T. Australian psychologists' attitudes towards psychedelic-assisted therapy and training following a world-first drug down-scheduling. Drug Alcohol Rev 2024. [PMID: 39499579 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2024] [Revised: 10/09/2024] [Accepted: 10/14/2024] [Indexed: 11/07/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study explores the attitudes of psychologists towards psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) following the world-first regulatory changes in 2023 in Australia which permitted psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA) to be used in clinical services. METHODS A purposive sample of 20 Australian psychologists was recruited using snowball sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted which explored participants' attitudes, knowledge and concerns about PAT. Data were coded and analysed to identify and develop theme categories. RESULTS Most psychologists exhibited positive attitudes towards psychedelics and their therapeutic potential, viewing them as promising for addressing chronic mental health conditions like depression. However, there was a notable concern regarding the limited evidence on efficacy and potential adverse experiences, as well as the complexity of the individualised treatment protocol. Despite enthusiasm, many psychologists had limited detailed knowledge about the interventions themselves. The need for comprehensive education and training programs, including exposure to psychedelic experiences and credible higher education institutions, was emphasised to ensure competence in administering PAT. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Psychologists displayed notably positive attitudes towards PAT, likely reflecting both shifting perceptions of psychedelics and self-selection bias within the sample. Despite this optimism, concerns were raised about psychiatric risks and the necessity for comprehensive and reputable training and supervision. The cohort showed openness to both novel treatments and innovative training methods, underscoring the importance of enhancing educational frameworks to ensure effective implementation of PAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan J Negrine
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Cheneal Puljević
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jason Ferris
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Paul Liknaitzky
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Timothy Piatkowski
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
- Griffith Centre for Mental Health, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
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Yu X, Eid Y, Jama M, Pham D, Ahmed M, Attar MS, Samiuddin Z, Barakat K. Combining machine learning, molecular dynamics, and free energy analysis for (5HT)-2A receptor modulator classification. J Mol Graph Model 2024; 132:108842. [PMID: 39151376 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2024.108842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
The 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5HT)-2A receptor, a key target in psychoactive drug development, presents significant challenges in the design of selective compounds. Here, we describe the construction, evaluation and validation of two machine learning (ML) models for the classification of bioactivity mechanisms against the (5HT)-2A receptor. Employing neural networks and XGBoost models, we achieved an overall accuracy of around 87 %, which was further enhanced through molecular modelling (MM) (e.g. molecular dynamics simulations) and binding free energy analysis. This ML-MM integration provided insights into the mechanisms of direct modulators and prodrugs. A significant outcome of the current study is the development of a 'binding free energy fingerprint' specific to (5HT)-2A modulators, offering a novel metric for evaluating drug efficacy against this target. Our study demonstrates the prospective of employing a successful workflow combining AI with structural biology, offering a powerful tool for advancing psychoactive drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian Yu
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Yasmine Eid
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Maryam Jama
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Diane Pham
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Marawan Ahmed
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Melika Shabani Attar
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Zainab Samiuddin
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Khaled Barakat
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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Zhen Z, Sun X, Yuan S, Zhang J. Psychoactive substances for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Asian J Psychiatr 2024; 101:104193. [PMID: 39243659 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2024.104193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
In the contemporary landscape of psychiatric medicine, critical advancements have been noted in the utilization of psychoactive substances such as hallucinogens, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), and ketamine for the treatment of severe mental health disorders. This review provides a detailed evaluation of these substances, focusing on their mechanisms of action and the profound clinical outcomes observed in controlled environments. Hallucinogens like lysergic acid diethylamide and psilocybin primarily target the 5-HT2A receptor agonist-2 (5-HT2AR), inducing substantial perceptual and cognitive shifts that facilitate deep psychological introspection and significant therapeutic advances, particularly in patients suffering from depression and anxiety disorders. MDMA, influencing multiple neurotransmitter systems including 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), dopamine, and norepinephrine, has been demonstrated to effectively alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, enhancing patients' emotional engagement and resilience during psychotherapy. Meanwhile, ketamine, a glutamate receptor antagonist, rapidly alleviates depressive symptoms, offering a lifeline for individuals with treatment-resistant depression through its fast-acting antidepressant properties. The integration of these substances into psychiatric practice has shown promising results, fundamentally changing the therapeutic landscape for patients unresponsive to traditional treatment modalities. However, the potent effects of these agents also necessitate a cautious approach in clinical application, ensuring careful dosage control, monitoring, and risk management to prevent potential abuse and mitigate adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zifan Zhen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, PR China; Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, PR China
| | - Xueqiang Sun
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, PR China; Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, PR China
| | - Shiying Yuan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, PR China; Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, PR China.
| | - Jiancheng Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, PR China; Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, PR China.
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Gartner HT, Wan HZ, Simmons RE, Sollee DR, Sheikh S. Psychedelic mushroom-containing chocolate exposures: Case series. Am J Emerg Med 2024; 85:208-213. [PMID: 39288500 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2024.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The recreational use of psilocybin or psilocin-containing products, a chemical found naturally in certain mushroom species, is on the rise across the United States. Several cases of serious clinical effects related to mushroom-containing products have recently been reported to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The emergence of these new products and their health consequences are not yet well understood. This case series aims to characterize exposures to mushroom-containing chocolate products, including patient characteristics, clinical effects, treatment(s), and clinical outcome severity, reported to a poison center network. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a retrospective case series conducted in patients exposed to mushroom-containing chocolate products across three poison centers between January 2023 to August 2024. Patients were identified via a database search of ToxSentry®. Patients were included if they were exposed to a mushroom-containing chocolate product. Patients were excluded if they ingested an unrelated product or if there was insufficient information documented within ToxSentry®. The primary endpoint was to describe clinical outcome severity after exposure to mushroom-containing chocolate products. RESULTS A query of ToxSentry® identified 164 cases; 36 cases met study criteria. The median age of patients in this case series was 17 years old. For most patients (23, 64 %), the reason for the exposure was intentional, with 20 reporting intentional abuse or misuse of the product. Common clinical effects reported included mental status changes (26, 76 %), paranoia/hallucinations (10, 28 %), dysrhythmias (7, 19 %) and gastrointestinal discomfort (6, 17 %). There was one report of seizure. Most clinical effects lasted between 3 and 24 h after ingestion (29, 81 %). Intravenous fluids (18, 50 %) and benzodiazepines (7, 19 %) were the most common treatments given. No fatalities were reported. DISCUSSION While most patients in this series experienced minor clinical effects, some developed serious effects after ingestion of a mushroom-containing chocolate product. Findings from this study further characterize the limited patient demographics, clinical effects, and outcomes published thus far. Further characterization in a larger cohort of patients could expand on our initial findings and is needed to better identify factors that may influence clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley T Gartner
- Florida/USVI Poison Information Center Jacksonville, University of Florida Health Jacksonville, 655 W 8th St C-23, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA.
| | - Herbert Z Wan
- Florida/USVI Poison Information Center Jacksonville, University of Florida Health Jacksonville, 655 W 8th St C-23, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA
| | - Reeves E Simmons
- Florida/USVI Poison Information Center Jacksonville, University of Florida Health Jacksonville, 655 W 8th St C-23, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA
| | - Dawn R Sollee
- Florida/USVI Poison Information Center Jacksonville, University of Florida Health Jacksonville, 655 W 8th St C-23, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville, 655 W 8th St, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA
| | - Sophia Sheikh
- Florida/USVI Poison Information Center Jacksonville, University of Florida Health Jacksonville, 655 W 8th St C-23, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville, 655 W 8th St, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA
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Min H, Park SY, Park J, Na S, Lee HS, Kim T, Ham J, Park YT. A narrative exploration of psilocybin's potential in mental health. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1429373. [PMID: 39540010 PMCID: PMC11557947 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1429373] [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: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 10/04/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Psilocybin, a psychoactive substance, has recently garnered attention for its high therapeutic potential in psychiatry. In this study, we investigated the multifaceted aspects of psilocybin, highlighting its chemical properties, mechanisms of action, and burgeoning role in psychiatric treatment. Furthermore, we examined the clinical applications and potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin in the treatment of various mental health disorders, supported by accumulating clinical evidence. This review aims to deepen our understanding of the clinical impact of psilocybin, elucidate its therapeutic value, and propose directions for future research, thereby paving the way for its integration into mainstream psychiatric treatments. Psilocybin has been shown to be safe in clinical trials with manageable side effects. However, additional safety measures are required after this discussion, including dosing protocols, patient monitoring, and distress management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huitae Min
- Natural Product Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Gangneung, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Jisu Park
- Natural Product Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Gangneung, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongsu Na
- Natural Product Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Gangneung, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoe-Suk Lee
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung, Republic of Korea
| | - Taejung Kim
- Natural Product Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Gangneung, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungyeob Ham
- Natural Product Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Gangneung, Republic of Korea
- R&D Center, NeoCannBio Co., Ltd., Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Tae Park
- Natural Product Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Gangneung, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Viljoen G, Betzler F. Anxiety and Affective Symptoms Related to the Use of Classic Psychedelics: A Systematic Review. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2024. [PMID: 39436632 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2024_534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2024]
Abstract
There is a large and rapidly growing body of literature investigating the therapeutic effects of classic psychedelics in affective and anxiety disorders, but very few studies have examined the inverse of this, that is, the potential for psychedelics to inflict anxiety and affective symptoms. A systematic literature search was performed and 39 papers were included in the final review to qualitatively synthesize the current literature on anxiety and affective disorders related to the use of classic psychedelics. Persisting disorders were less frequent but generally occurred in individuals who presented with several risk factors (overdose, polydrug use, unstructured recreational setting, psychosocial stress, personal/familial psychiatric histories). When psychedelics were administered in clinical studies under the framework of psychedelic-assisted therapy, the incidence of enduring anxiety and affective symptoms was low. In most cases, acute transient anxiety emerged and resolved during the dosing session without the need for additional treatment interventions. The nuance of such cases is discussed, shedding light on the role of emotional catharsis in the therapeutic process. Several suggestions are proposed to enhance patient safety including strengthening the therapeutic alliance, ensuring adequate mental preparation, acclimating to high doses and providing on-going therapeutic support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Viljoen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Einstein Center for Neurosciences, Berlin, Germany
| | - Felix Betzler
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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13
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Choi C, Johnson DE, Chen-Li D, Rosenblat J. Mechanisms of psilocybin on the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder. J Psychopharmacol 2024:2698811241286771. [PMID: 39360403 DOI: 10.1177/02698811241286771] [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] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop after a traumatic event, causing distressing symptoms, including intrusive re-experiencing symptoms, alterations in mood and cognition, and changes in arousal and reactivity. Few treatment options exist for patients who find conventional psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to be inaccessible, ineffective, or intolerable. We explore psilocybin as a potential treatment option for PTSD by examining the neurobiology of PTSD as well as psilocybin's mechanism of action. Based on both pharmacodynamic and psychoanalytic principles, psilocybin may be an underexplored treatment option for patients with PTSD, though further research is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Danica E Johnson
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Depression Center, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David Chen-Li
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Depression Center, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joshua Rosenblat
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Depression Center, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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14
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Owe-Larsson M, Kamińska K, Buchalska B, Mirowska-Guzel D, Cudnoch-Jędrzejewska A. Psilocybin in pharmacotherapy of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:911-925. [PMID: 39088105 PMCID: PMC11387457 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-024-00633-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental disease that affects approximately 2% of the population. Obsessions and compulsions are troublesome for patients and may disturb their everyday activities. The pathogenesis of this disease is still not fully elucidated, but dysfunctions of serotonin-, dopamine- and glutamate-mediated neurotransmission together with early maladaptive schemas seem of importance. Pharmacological treatment includes drugs affecting the serotoninergic, dopaminergic, and glutamatergic systems, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Providing that up to 40% of patients with OCD are resistant to the currently available medications, there is a need for novel and effective therapies. Recent discoveries suggest that psilocybin, a non-physically addictive psychoactive substance, may ameliorate disease symptoms. When used in appropriate doses and under strict clinical control, psilocybin appears as a valuable treatment for OCD. This narrative article provides a thorough overview of OCD's etiology, current treatment options, and the emerging evidence supporting psilocybin's efficacy in managing OCD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Owe-Larsson
- Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, Warszawa, 02-097, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Kamińska
- Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, Warszawa, 02-097, Poland.
| | - Barbara Buchalska
- Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, Warszawa, 02-097, Poland
| | - Dagmara Mirowska-Guzel
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Cudnoch-Jędrzejewska
- Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, Warszawa, 02-097, Poland
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15
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Vu MO, Butters BM, Canal CE, Figueroa XA. Defined radio wave frequencies attenuate the head-twitch response in mice elicited by (±)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine. Electromagn Biol Med 2024; 43:328-336. [PMID: 39435614 DOI: 10.1080/15368378.2024.2418552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2024] [Indexed: 10/23/2024]
Abstract
Results from clinical trials show that serotonergic psychedelics have efficacy in treating psychiatric disorders, where currently approved pharmacotherapies are inadequate. Developing psychedelic medicines, however, comes with unique challenges, such as tempering heightened anxiety associated with the psychedelic experience. We conceived a new strategy to potentially mitigate psychedelic effects with defined electromagnetic signals (ES). We recorded the electromagnetic fields emitted by the serotonin 2 receptor (5-HT2R) agonist (±)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) and converted them to a playable WAV file. We then exposed the DOI WAV ES to mice to assess its effects on the DOI-elicited, 5-HT2AR dependent head-twitch response (HTR). The DOI WAV signal significantly attenuated the HTR in mice elicited by 0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg subcutaneous DOI (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). A scrambled WAV signal did not affect the DOI-elicited HTR, suggesting specificity of the DOI WAV signal. These results provide evidence that defined ES could modulate the psychoactive effects of serotonergic psychedelics. We discuss putative explanations for the distinct effects of the DOI WAV signal in the context of previous studies that demonstrate ES's efficacy for treating other conditions, including pain and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary O Vu
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - B Michael Butters
- Pre-clinical Development, EMulate Therapeutics Inc ., Bellevue, WA, USA
| | - Clinton E Canal
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Xavier A Figueroa
- Pre-clinical Development, EMulate Therapeutics Inc ., Bellevue, WA, USA
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16
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Najib J. The role of psilocybin in depressive disorders. Curr Med Res Opin 2024; 40:1793-1808. [PMID: 39177339 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2024.2396536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Depression is a serious psychiatric disorder with a high incidence of morbidity and mortality and psilocybin with psychotherapy has emerged as a promising potential in the treatment of depressive disorders. A review of psilocybin use in patients with depressive disorders is presented.A search was conducted investigating the use of psilocybin in patients with depressive disorders and treatment resistant depression via PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Google Scholar in October 2023; all publication types were permitted and limited for English-language. Keyword search terms included: "psilocybin" or "psychedelics" and "depression", or "major depressive disorder", or "treatment-resistant depression". Controlled and uncontrolled clinical trials utilizing psilocybin with psychological support for major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression, as well as in patients with depression and cancer related anxiety have demonstrated immediate and sustained antidepressant and anxiolytic effects. Psilocybin has a favorable safety profile and was well-tolerated in clinical trials. Psilocybin's abuse potential is low and clinical research suggests the potential of psilocybin to produce rapid and lasting antidepressant effects up to 12 months post-treatment. Psilocybin may offer a valuable contribution as an option to the currently available pharmacological and psychotherapeutic agents for patients with major depressive disorders, treatment-resistant depression as well as for patients with depression and comorbid terminal cancer. Future studies are needed to demonstrate these findings and any synergistic interaction between psilocybin and the psychological support offered to patients during sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jadwiga Najib
- LIU, Arnold & Marie Schwartz College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Zucker Hillside Hospital of Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, New York, USA
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17
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Sapienza J, Martini F, Comai S, Cavallaro R, Spangaro M, De Gregorio D, Bosia M. Psychedelics and schizophrenia: a double-edged sword. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02743-x. [PMID: 39294303 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02743-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
Psychedelics have shown promising effects in several psychiatric diseases as demonstrated by multiple clinical trials. However, no clinical experiments on patients with schizophrenia have been conducted up to date, except for some old semi-anecdotal studies mainly performed in the time-span '50s-'60s. Notably, these studies reported interesting findings, particularly on the improvement of negative symptoms and social cognition. With no doubts the lack of modern clinical studies is due to the psychomimetic properties of psychedelics, a noteworthy downside that could worsen positive symptoms. However, a rapidly increasing body of evidence has suggested that the mechanisms of action of such compounds partially overlaps with the pathogenic underpinnings of schizophrenia but in an opposite way. These findings suggest that, despite being a controversial issue, the use of psychedelics in the treatment of schizophrenia would be based on a strong biological rationale. Therefore, the aim of our perspective paper is to provide a background on the old experiments with psychedelics performed on patients with schizophrenia, interpreting them in the light of recent molecular findings on their ability to induce neuroplasticity and modulate connectivity, the immune and TAARs systems, neurotransmitters, and neurotropic factors. No systematic approach was adopted in reviewing the evidence given the difficulty to retrieve and interpret old findings. Interestingly, we identified a therapeutic potential of psychedelics in schizophrenia adopting a critical point of view, particularly on negative symptoms and social cognition, and we summarized all the relevant findings. We also identified an eligible subpopulation of chronic patients predominantly burdened by negative symptoms, outlining possible therapeutic strategies which encompass very low doses of psychedelics (microdosing), carefully considering safety and feasibility, to pave the way to future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Sapienza
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Department of Humanities and Life Sciences, University School for Advanced Studies IUSS, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Comai
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Roberto Cavallaro
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- School of medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Danilo De Gregorio
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- School of medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Bosia
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- School of medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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18
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Yao Y, Zhang YZ, Liang JQ, Liu F, Li ZF, Li HJ, Xu F. Mushroom poisoning of Panaeolus subbalteatus from Ningxia, northwest China, with species identification and tryptamine detection. Toxicon 2024; 247:107849. [PMID: 38971474 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2024.107849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Mushroom poisoning is a significant contributor to foodborne disease outbreaks in China. This study focuses on two Panaeolus subbalteatus poisoning incidents accompanied by epidemiological investigations, species identification, and toxin detection in Ningxia, northwest China. In these two poisoning incidents, some patients exhibited gastrointestinal or neurological symptoms approximately 0.5 h after ingestion of a large amount of wild mushroom. Specifically, in Case 1, one of the three patients experienced nausea, vomiting, and numbness in the throat and limbs; in Case 2, one patient reported dizziness and an abnormal sense of direction. Through morphological and phylogenetic analyses, mushroom specimens were identified as P. subbalteatus. Psilocybin and psilocin were detected in mushroom samples, and only psilocin was detected in biological samples by liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometry screening. The average psilocybin and psilocin contents in mushroom samples were 1532.2-1760.7 and 114.5-136.0 mg/kg (n = 3), respectively. Moreover, only psilocin was detected in blood and urine samples, with average concentrations 0.5-1.2 ng/mL (n = 3) and 2.5-3.1 ng/mL (n = 3), respectively. These findings provide technical support for managing similar incidents in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yao
- School of Public Health, Ningxia Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Diseases Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Yi-Zhe Zhang
- National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Qi Liang
- National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Physical and Chemical Department, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Zhong-Feng Li
- National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Hai-Jiao Li
- National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China.
| | - Fei Xu
- School of Public Health, Ningxia Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Diseases Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China; Physical and Chemical Department, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.
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19
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Namiot ED, Smirnovová D, Sokolov AV, Chubarev VN, Tarasov VV, Schiöth HB. Depression clinical trials worldwide: a systematic analysis of the ICTRP and comparison with ClinicalTrials.gov. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:315. [PMID: 39085220 PMCID: PMC11291508 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-03031-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD), commonly known as depression, affects over 300 million people worldwide as of 2018 and presents a wide range of clinical symptoms. The international clinical trials registry platform (ICTRP) introduced by WHO includes aggregated data from ClinicalTrials.gov and 17 other national registers, making it the largest clinical trial platform. Here we analysed data in ICTRP with the aim of providing comprehensive insights into clinical trials on depression. Applying a novel hidden duplicate identification method, 10,606 depression trials were identified in ICTRP, with ANZCTR being the largest non- ClinicalTrials.gov database at 1031 trials, followed by IRCT with 576 trials, ISRCTN with 501 trials, CHiCTR with 489 trials, and EUCTR with 351 trials. The top four most studied drugs, ketamine, sertraline, duloxetine, and fluoxetine, were consistent in both groups, but ClinicalTrials.gov had more trials for each drug compared to the non-ClinicalTrials.gov group. Out of 9229 interventional trials, 663 unique agents were identified, including approved drugs (74.5%), investigational drugs (23.2%), withdrawn drugs (1.8%), nutraceuticals (0.3%), and illicit substances (0.2%). Both ClinicalTrials.gov and non-ClinicalTrials.gov databases revealed that the largest categories were antidepressive agents (1172 in ClinicalTrials.gov and 659 in non-ClinicalTrials.gov) and nutrients, amino acids, and chemical elements (250 in ClinicalTrials.gov and 659 in non-ClinicalTrials.gov), indicating a focus on alternative treatments involving dietary supplements and nutrients. Additionally, 26 investigational antidepressive agents targeting 16 different drug targets were identified, with buprenorphine (opioid agonist), saredutant (NK2 antagonist), and seltorexant (OX2 antagonist) being the most frequently studied. This analysis addresses 40 approved drugs for depression treatment including new drug classes like GABA modulators and NMDA antagonists that are offering new prospects for treating MDD, including drug-resistant depression and postpartum depression subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia D Namiot
- Department of Surgical Science, Functional Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Diana Smirnovová
- Department of Surgical Science, Functional Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Aleksandr V Sokolov
- Department of Surgical Science, Functional Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Vladimir N Chubarev
- Advanced Molecular Technologies, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Moscow, Russia
| | - Vadim V Tarasov
- Advanced Molecular Technologies, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Moscow, Russia
| | - Helgi B Schiöth
- Department of Surgical Science, Functional Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden.
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20
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Smith SA, Smith S, Dennett L, Zhang Y. Investigating the impact of psychedelic drugs on social cognition defects: A scoping review protocol. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0307491. [PMID: 39074107 PMCID: PMC11285908 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0307491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Impairments in social cognition are known to be a key factor in several psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. Interest in psychedelic drugs has increased in recent years, with significant research identifying psychedelic and hallucinogenic drugs as modulators of social cognition. However, more research is necessary before psychedelics are implemented in clinical settings as treatments for social cognition defects. Therefore, this study describes a scoping review protocol which will be used to analyze the body of literature on psychedelic drugs as modulators of social cognition in patients with psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. METHODS This scoping review protocol was developed using the JBI Scoping Review Methodology Group's description of how to conduct a scoping review. The guidelines identified by this group as well as a search strategy developed with the assistance of a research librarian will be applied to a search of several peer-reviewed journals, including MEDLINE (Ovid), PsycINFO, EMBASE (Elsevier), and Scopus (Elsevier). Each study extracted will be screened in a two-step screening process, including a title and abstract screen, and a full-text screen. One independent individual will complete both steps of the screening, and a second independent individual will review the completed screening. DISCUSSION An understanding of the current literature on psychedelic drugs as modulators of social cognition will provide insight into what is presently known on the subject, and any gaps in the literature that can be addressed in future studies. The knowledge gained from this scoping review could lead to a new treatment for social cognition defects in clinical populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Ann Smith
- Faculty of Science, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shaina Smith
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Liz Dennett
- Geoffrey and Robyn Sperber Health Sciences Library, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Yanbo Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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21
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Njenga C, Ramanuj PP, de Magalhães FJC, Pincus HA. New and emerging treatments for major depressive disorder. BMJ 2024; 386:e073823. [PMID: 38977279 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2022-073823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects a substantial portion of the population; however, much is still unknown about the pathophysiology of this disorder. Treatment resistance highlights the heterogeneous nature of MDD and the need for treatments to target more than monoamine neurotransmission. This review summarizes research into the new and emerging targets of MDD. These include drugs such as psychedelics, antibiotics, opioid modulators, neuropeptides, and onabotulinumtoxin. Neuromodulatory treatments such as light based therapies and neuromodulation involving either magnetic or electrical stimulation are also discussed. Almost all interventions, pharmacological and neuromodulation, were trialed as adjunctive treatments to an antidepressant. Most research has been conducted on psychedelics, with trials suggesting rapid antidepressant and anti-suicidal effects. Trial findings, tolerability, study design limitations and quality of research have been considered throughout this review. There remains challenges in forming recommendations with the current research at present. With there being considerable interest into the research of new and emerging treatments-in particular, psychedelics-there may be scope in the future to form more robust recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Harold Alan Pincus
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Irving Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- RAND Corporation, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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22
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Poulin JM, Bigford GE, Lanctôt KL, Giacobbe P, Schaffer A, Sinyor M, Rabin JS, Masellis M, Singnurkar A, Pople CB, Lipsman N, Husain MI, Rosenblat JD, Cao X, MacIntosh BJ, Nestor SM. Engaging Mood Brain Circuits with Psilocybin (EMBRACE): a study protocol for a randomized, placebo-controlled and delayed-start, neuroimaging trial in depression. Trials 2024; 25:441. [PMID: 38956594 PMCID: PMC11221029 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08268-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide across domains of health and cognition, affecting overall quality of life. Approximately one third of individuals with depression do not fully respond to treatments (e.g., conventional antidepressants, psychotherapy) and alternative strategies are needed. Recent early phase trials suggest psilocybin may be a safe and efficacious intervention with rapid-acting antidepressant properties. Psilocybin is thought to exert therapeutic benefits by altering brain network connectivity and inducing neuroplastic changes that endure for weeks post-treatment. Although early clinical results are encouraging, psilocybin's acute neurobiological effects on neuroplasticity have not been fully investigated. We aim to examine for the first time how psilocybin acutely (intraday) and subacutely (weeks) alters functional brain networks implicated in depression. METHODS Fifty participants diagnosed with MDD or persistent depressive disorder (PDD) will be recruited from a tertiary mood disorders clinic and undergo 1:1 randomization into either an experimental or control arm. Participants will be given either 25 mg psilocybin or 25 mg microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) placebo for the first treatment. Three weeks later, those in the control arm will transition to receiving 25 mg psilocybin. We will investigate whether treatments are associated with changes in arterial spin labelling and blood oxygenation level-dependent contrast neuroimaging assessments at acute and subacute timepoints. Primary outcomes include testing whether psilocybin demonstrates acute changes in (1) cerebral blood flow and (2) functional brain activity in networks associated with mood regulation and depression when compared to placebo, along with changes in MADRS score over time compared to placebo. Secondary outcomes include changes across complementary clinical psychiatric, cognitive, and functional scales from baseline to final follow-up. Serum peripheral neurotrophic and inflammatory biomarkers will be collected at baseline and follow-up to examine relationships with clinical response, and neuroimaging measures. DISCUSSION This study will investigate the acute and additive subacute neuroplastic effects of psilocybin on brain networks affected by depression using advanced serial neuroimaging methods. Results will improve our understanding of psilocybin's antidepressant mechanisms versus placebo response and whether biological measures of brain function can provide early predictors of treatment response. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06072898. Registered on 6 October 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua M Poulin
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gregory E Bigford
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Krista L Lanctôt
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Peter Giacobbe
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Harquail Centre for Neuromodulation, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ayal Schaffer
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mark Sinyor
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer S Rabin
- Harquail Centre for Neuromodulation, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mario Masellis
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Amit Singnurkar
- Department of Medical Imaging, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Christopher B Pople
- Harquail Centre for Neuromodulation, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nir Lipsman
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Harquail Centre for Neuromodulation, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Muhammad I Husain
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joshua D Rosenblat
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Xingshan Cao
- Research Design and Biostatistics, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bradley J MacIntosh
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dr. Sandra Black Centre for Brain Resilience and Recovery, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sean M Nestor
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Harquail Centre for Neuromodulation, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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23
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Xie L, Liu X, Yao Y, Tan B, Su R. Serine 3.39 and isoleucine 4.60 are key sites for 5-HT 2AR-mediated G s signaling. FEBS Lett 2024; 598:1783-1791. [PMID: 38757247 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Certain amino acid sites of 5-HT2AR play crucial roles in interacting with various G proteins. Hallucinogens and non-hallucinogens both act on 5-HT2AR but mediate different pharmacological effects, possibly due to the coupling of different G proteins. Therefore, this study identified the binding sites of hallucinogens and non-hallucinogens with 5-HT2AR through molecular docking. We conducted site mutation to examine the impact of these sites on G proteins, in order to find out the sites that can distinguish the pharmacological effects of hallucinogens and non-hallucinogens. Our results indicate that I4.60A and S3.39A did not affect the ability of hallucinogens to activate Gq signaling, but significantly reduced Gs signaling activation by hallucinogens. These results suggest that S3.39 and I4.60 are important for the activation of Gs signaling by hallucinogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
- Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, China
| | - Xiaoqian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - Yishan Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - Bo Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - Ruibin Su
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
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Bienemann B, Barbosa AR, Cruz LVMD, Multedo M, Mograbi D. Health Benefits and Positive Acute Effects of Psilocybin Consumption: A Quantitative Textual Analysis of User Self-Reported Data. J Psychoactive Drugs 2024; 56:324-332. [PMID: 37348116 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2023.2226414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
There has been growth in the use of psychedelics by the global population in recent years. In addition to recreational and ritualistic use, recent research into psychedelics has brought advances for treating mental disorders. Understanding the specific circumstances in which psilocybin leads to positive outcomes may have important implications for the future of its clinical use and for harm reduction initiatives. This study aimed to investigate the positive effects from the consumption of psilocybin through public online self-reports. We sought to investigate health benefits promoted by the consumption of the substance, positive acute effects, and contextual details of these experiences. We analyzed 846 reports with the assistance of the IRaMuTeQ textual analysis software, adopting the procedures of Descending Hierarchical Classification, Correspondence Factor Analysis, and Specificities Analysis. The texts were grouped in 5 clusters, describing the content of mental experiences, cognitive processes, somatic experiences, perceptual alterations, and context of administration. The findings of this study reinforce central axes of the psychedelic experience, such as the presence of somatic and visual alterations, connectedness and feeling one with the world and effects of setting, as well as the beneficial character of mystical experiences this substance promotes, and the importance of the ego-dissolution phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bheatrix Bienemann
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Amanda Rocha Barbosa
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Marco Multedo
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Daniel Mograbi
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Lee HJ, Tsang VW, Chai BS, Lin MC, Howard A, Uy C, Elefante JO. Psilocybin's Potential Mechanisms in the Treatment of Depression: A Systematic Review. J Psychoactive Drugs 2024; 56:301-315. [PMID: 37385217 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2023.2223195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Evidence suggests that psilocybin has therapeutic benefit for treating depression. However, there is little consensus regarding the mechanism by which psilocybin elicits antidepressant effects. This systematic review summarizes existing evidence. Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, psychINFO, and Web of Science were searched, for both human and animal studies, using a combination of MeSH Terms and free-text keywords in September 2021. No other mood disorders or psychiatric diagnoses were included. Original papers in English were included. The PRISMA framework was followed for the screening of papers. Two researchers screened the retrieved articles from the literature search, and a third researcher resolved any conflicts. Of 2,193 papers identified, 49 were selected for full-text review. 14 articles were included in the qualitative synthesis. Six supported psilocybin's mechanism of antidepressant action via changes to serotonin or glutamate receptor activity and three papers found an increase in synaptogenesis. Thirteen papers investigated changes in non-receptor or pathway-specific brain activity. Five papers found changes in functional connectivity or neurotransmission, most commonly in the hippocampus or prefrontal cortex. Several neuroreceptors, neurotransmitters, and brain areas are thought to be involved in psilocybin's ability to mitigate depressive symptoms. Psilocybin appears to alter cerebral blood flow to the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, but the evidence on changes in functional connectivity and specific receptor activity remains sparse. The lack of consensus between studies suggests that psilocybin's mechanism of action may involve a variety of pathways, demonstrating the need for more studies on psilocybin's mechanism of action as an antidepressant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison J Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Vivian Wl Tsang
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Brandon S Chai
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Michelle Cq Lin
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrew Howard
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Christopher Uy
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Julius O Elefante
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Wang SM, Kim S, Choi WS, Lim HK, Woo YS, Pae CU, Bahk WM. Current Understanding on Psilocybin for Major Depressive Disorder: A Review Focusing on Clinical Trials. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN COLLEGE OF NEUROPSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 22:222-231. [PMID: 38627070 PMCID: PMC11024689 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.23.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies suggested effectiveness of psilocybin in the field of mental health. FDA designated psilocybin as a "breakthrough therapy" for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in 2018. This paper provided a review of psilocybin's potential role in treatment of depression by focusing on published clinical trials. Studies showed that psilocybin, an agonist on 5-HT2A receptors, manifests antidepressant and anxiolytic effects by increasing glutamate transmission, reducing brain inflammation, decreasing default mode network activity. In terms of clinical trials, eleven studies (six open-label and five double blinded randomized clinical trials [DB-RCTs]) trials exploring psilocybin's impact on depression were found. Among open-label studies, a pilot study on TRD patients demonstrated significant reductions in depressive symptoms after two psilocybin sessions. Psilocybin also improved cognitive bias associated with depression. Extension studies confirmed sustained improvements and high remission rates. Among five DB-RCTs, two showed that psilocybin led to significant reductions in anxiety and depression in cancer patients, and the improvements sustained for over six months. In MDD, psilocybin showed rapid reductions in depression, with higher remission rates compared to escitalopram in a DB-RCT. Another DB-RCT showed that psilocybin induced higher decrease in depression around 6 hours after their administrations than placebo. The last DB-RCT showed that in patients with TRD, a single dose of psilocybin 25 mg, but not psilocybin 10 mg, resulted in superior antidepressant effect than psilocybin 1 mg. Overall, psilocybin showed promise in treating depression and anxiety, with notable safety profiles. Further research should explore optimal dosages and long-term effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Min Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sunghwan Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Won-Seok Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Kook Lim
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Sup Woo
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chi-Un Pae
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Bucheon St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Won-Myong Bahk
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Yeouido St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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Rogers SA, Heller EA, Corder G. Psilocybin-enhanced fear extinction linked to bidirectional modulation of cortical ensembles. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.04.578811. [PMID: 38352491 PMCID: PMC10862786 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.04.578811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The serotonin 2 receptor (5HT2R) agonist psilocybin displays rapid and persistent therapeutic efficacy across neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by cognitive inflexibility. However, the impact of psilocybin on patterns of neural activity underlying sustained changes in behavioral flexibility has not been characterized. To test the hypothesis that psilocybin enhances behavioral flexibility by altering activity in cortical neural ensembles, we performed longitudinal single-cell calcium imaging in the retrosplenial cortex across a five-day trace fear learning and extinction assay. A single dose of psilocybin induced ensemble turnover between fear learning and extinction days while oppositely modulating activity in fear- and extinction- active neurons. The acute suppression of fear-active neurons and delayed recruitment of extinction-active neurons were predictive of psilocybin-enhanced fear extinction. A computational model revealed that acute inhibition of fear-active neurons by psilocybin is sufficient to explain its neural and behavioral effects days later. These results align with our hypothesis and introduce a new mechanism involving the suppression of fear-active populations in the retrosplenial cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie A. Rogers
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Heller
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gregory Corder
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Bellman V. Review of Psilocybin Use for Depression among Cancer Patients after Approval in Oregon. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1702. [PMID: 38730654 PMCID: PMC11083170 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the legalization of psilocybin therapy for depression in terminal illnesses such as advanced cancer through Oregon's Measure 109 in 2020, significant challenges have impeded its implementation. This review synthesizes the empirical data supporting the utilization of psilocybin therapy for addressing cancer-related depression, including an evaluation of its purported benefits and potential adverse effects. It provides a comprehensive examination of therapeutic strategies, dosing regimens, and barriers to ensuring responsible and equitable access. Salient issues explored include the development of ethical protocols, integration within healthcare systems, ensuring statewide availability, resolving legal ambiguities, and defining clinical standards. Oregon's pioneering role serves as a case study, highlighting the necessity of addressing regulatory, logistical, and ethical obstacles to ensure the establishment of rigorous and equitable psilocybin care models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Val Bellman
- Psychiatry Residency Training Program, University of Missouri Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
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29
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Norring SA, Spigarelli MG. The Promise of Therapeutic Psilocybin: An Evaluation of the 134 Clinical Trials, 54 Potential Indications, and 0 Marketing Approvals on ClinicalTrials.gov. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:1143-1151. [PMID: 38618282 PMCID: PMC11016263 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s443177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin, a tryptamine psychedelic, has been touted in the media both historically and recently as a potential game-changing mental health therapeutic. ClinicalTrials.gov has over one hundred and thirty psilocybin clinical trials listed covering the last twenty years. The single most important aspect of any therapeutic is to gain approval for marketing and thus enter the real-world phase of development. A typical new chemical entity progresses from inception to US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in approximately 12 years and seeks approval for a single indication. Methods An observational study was conducted with the available information on the ClinicalTrials.gov site to observe the extent of progress made demonstrating the clinical utility of psilocybin. Results The results showed 134 psilocybin trials typically unblinded studies of 10-20 participants, recruited over years at a single site. Additionally, there have been only three advanced trials (1 Phase 2/3 and 2 Phase 3) submitted, and only in the last two years. Discussion The hundreds of psilocybin clinical trials initiated over the past twenty years comprising a myriad of potential indications may actually be slowing this potential game-changing mental health therapeutic agent's approval and is costing excessive amounts of capital. To fully evaluate the actual potential of psilocybin, purposeful clinical trials need to be designed well, executed efficiently, and analyzed utilizing sequential and statistically valid processes for each potential indication. This will require a change from the current exploratory forays to defined, well-funded, sequential pharmaceutical development practices, including adequate and appropriate blinding of studies, statistical design to determine the number of participants and more importantly, professional expertise in conducting multicenter trials. Unfortunately, these results demonstrate little real progress towards FDA approval of psilocybin and a field with no clear direction forward.
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30
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Laabi S, LeMmon C, Vogel C, Chacon M, Jimenez VM. Deciphering psilocybin: Cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory effects, and mechanistic insights. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 130:111753. [PMID: 38401463 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
A decade of clinical research has indicated psilocybin's effectiveness in treating various neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression and substance abuse. The correlation between increased pro-inflammatory cytokines and the severity of neuropsychiatric symptoms, along with the known anti-inflammatory potential of some psychedelics, suggests an immunomodulatory role for psilocybin. This study aims to understand the mechanism of action of psilocybin by investigating the cytotoxic and immunomodulatory effects of psilocybin and psilocin on both resting and LPS-activated RAW 264.7 murine macrophages. The study evaluated the cytotoxicity of psilocybin and psilocin using an LDH assay across various doses and assessed their impact on cytokine production in RAW 264.7 cells, measuring cytokine expression via ELISA. Different doses, including those above and below the LC50, were used in both pre-treatment and post-treatment approaches. The LDH assay revealed that psilocybin is almost twice as cytotoxic as psilocin, with an LC50 of 12 ng/ml and 28 ng/ml, respectively. In resting macrophages, both psilocybin and psilocin triggered significant release of TNF- α after 4 h, with the lowest doses inducing higher levels of the cytokine than the highest doses. IL-10 expression in resting cells was only triggered by the highest dose of psilocin in the 4-hour incubation group. In LPS-stimulated cells, psilocin reduced TNF- α levels more than psilocybin in pre-treatment and post-treatment, with no significant effects on IL-10 in pre-treatment. Psilocin, but not psilocybin, induced a significant increase of IL-10 in post-treatment, leading to the conclusion that psilocin, but not psilocybin, exerts anti-inflammatory effects on classically activated macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Laabi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2162 S 180 E, Provo, UT 84606, United States
| | - Claire LeMmon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2162 S 180 E, Provo, UT 84606, United States
| | - Callie Vogel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2162 S 180 E, Provo, UT 84606, United States
| | - Mariana Chacon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2162 S 180 E, Provo, UT 84606, United States
| | - Victor M Jimenez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2162 S 180 E, Provo, UT 84606, United States; Department of Pharmacy, Roseman University of Health Sciences, 10920 S River Front Pkwy, South Jordan, UT 84095, United States.
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31
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Robinson CL, Fonseca ACG, Diejomaoh EM, D’Souza RS, Schatman ME, Orhurhu V, Emerick T. Scoping Review: The Role of Psychedelics in the Management of Chronic Pain. J Pain Res 2024; 17:965-973. [PMID: 38496341 PMCID: PMC10941794 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s439348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Amid a lack of effective chronic pain treatments, psychedelics have gained attention as a potential solution, although their Schedule 1 classification poses challenges. Psychedelics, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin, have gained popularity as alternatives and adjuncts for chronic pain treatment. Studies suggest that they may modulate pain processing through agonism primarily at the serotonin receptor, 5-HT2A. One of the first of its nature, we present an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered scoping review primarily focusing on evaluating psychedelics for chronic pain conditions such as cluster headache, phantom limb pain, and fibromyalgia. Methods In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, we used an AI-powered comprehensive search strategy utilizing the ChatGPT4.0 Bing chat to search Medline, Embase, Cochrane, and Google Scholar for articles addressing chronic pain. The query was performed on June 1, 2023, focusing on psychedelics for chronic, non-cancer pain including headache disorders. Inclusion criteria were English-only, peer-reviewed articles involving human participants >18 years, focusing on chronic pain conditions (eg, phantom limb pain and cluster headache), using LSD, 2.5-dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine (2C-B), N, N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), psilocybin, or mescaline. Exclusion criteria were reviews, editorials, and opinion articles and studies focusing on tetrahydrocannabinol/cannabis and/or ketamine. Results A total of 186 unique database entries were retrieved, of which nine studies were included in the scoping review. These included four case reports/series, an open-label study, a cohort study, two online surveys, and a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. They comprised three studies addressing phantom limb pain, four addressing cluster headaches, and two addressing fibromyalgia, spinal cord injury, complex regional pain syndrome, and lumbar radiculopathy. Conclusion Psychedelics may have potential in alleviating pain symptoms secondary to a multitude of chronic pain conditions. However, further randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are needed to further explore and evaluate the role of psychedelics in chronic, non-cancer pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L Robinson
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alexandra C G Fonseca
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative & Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Efemena M Diejomaoh
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Science, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ryan S D’Souza
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Michael E Schatman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care, and Pain Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Population Health-Division of Medical Ethics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vwaire Orhurhu
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Susquehanna, Williamsport, PA, USA
- MVM Health, East Stroudsburg, PA, USA
| | - Trent Emerick
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Chronic Pain Division, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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32
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Allen J, Dames SS, Foldi CJ, Shultz SR. Psychedelics for acquired brain injury: a review of molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:671-685. [PMID: 38177350 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02360-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Acquired brain injury (ABI), such as traumatic brain injury and stroke, is a leading cause of disability worldwide, resulting in debilitating acute and chronic symptoms, as well as an increased risk of developing neurological and neurodegenerative disorders. These symptoms can stem from various neurophysiological insults, including neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, imbalances in neurotransmission, and impaired neuroplasticity. Despite advancements in medical technology and treatment interventions, managing ABI remains a significant challenge. Emerging evidence suggests that psychedelics may rapidly improve neurobehavioral outcomes in patients with various disorders that share physiological similarities with ABI. However, research specifically focussed on psychedelics for ABI is limited. This narrative literature review explores the neurochemical properties of psychedelics as a therapeutic intervention for ABI, with a focus on serotonin receptors, sigma-1 receptors, and neurotrophic signalling associated with neuroprotection, neuroplasticity, and neuroinflammation. The promotion of neuronal growth, cell survival, and anti-inflammatory properties exhibited by psychedelics strongly supports their potential benefit in managing ABI. Further research and translational efforts are required to elucidate their therapeutic mechanisms of action and to evaluate their effectiveness in treating the acute and chronic phases of ABI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Allen
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Shannon S Dames
- Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Post-Graduate Program, Health Sciences and Human Services, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, Canada
| | - Claire J Foldi
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Sandy R Shultz
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Centre for Trauma and Mental Health Research, Health Sciences and Human Services, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, Canada.
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Solaja I, Haldane K, Mason N, Weiss B, Xu X, Xu M, Nikolin S, Jayasena T, Millard M, Brett J, Bayes A, Loo CK, Martin DM. Who are you after psychedelics? A systematic review and a meta-analysis of the magnitude of long-term effects of serotonergic psychedelics on cognition/creativity, emotional processing and personality. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 158:105570. [PMID: 38311046 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
This systematic review and a meta-analysis synthesised the results from contemporary, randomized and non-randomized controlled studies to assess lasting (one week minimum) changes on cognition/creativity, emotional processing and personality from serotonergic psychedelics. PubMed, Embase and PsycInfo were searched in July 2022. Risk of bias was assessed using Rob 2.0 and ROBINS-I. Ten studies met the eligibility criteria which involved 304 participants. No statistically significant effects were found for the majority outcome measures across the three constructs. A meta-analysis of emotional recognition outcomes found an overall significant effect for faster reaction times in the active treatment groups for disgust (SMD=-0.63, 95% CI=[-1.01 to -0.25], I2 = 65%) and sadness (SMD=-0.45, 95% CI=[-0.85 to -0.06], I2 = 60%). Future research should include larger samples, better control conditions, standardized doses and longer follow-up periods to confirm these preliminary findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Solaja
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| | | | - Natasha Mason
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Brandon Weiss
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Division of Academic Psychiatry, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Xiaomin Xu
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mei Xu
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stevan Nikolin
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Black Dog Institute, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tharusha Jayasena
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Adam Bayes
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Black Dog Institute, Sydney, Australia
| | - Colleen K Loo
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Black Dog Institute, Sydney, Australia
| | - Donel M Martin
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Black Dog Institute, Sydney, Australia
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34
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Hernandez-Leon A, Escamilla-Orozco RI, Tabal-Robles AR, Martínez-Vargas D, Romero-Bautista L, Escamilla-Soto G, González-Romero OS, Torres-Valencia M, González-Trujano ME. Antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like activities and acute toxicity evaluation of the Psilocybe cubensis mushroom in experimental models in mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 320:117415. [PMID: 37977425 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE Central nervous system (CNS) diseases can be diverse and usually present with comorbidity, as in the case of depression and anxiety. Despite alternatives like Psilocybe mushrooms for mental health there is no basic research to evidence their CNS benefits. AIM OF THE STUDY To evaluate the anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects, as well as the acute toxicity of P. cubensis mushroom. MATERIAL AND METHODS First, the acute toxicity (LD50) of P. cubensis (2000 mg/kg) was determined after the esophageal (p.o.) and intraperitoneal (i.p.) route of administration. The rota-rod test and electroencephalogram (EEG) were included to assess CNS toxicity in free moving mice. Anxiolytic (ambulatory or exploratory and rearing behaviors) and antidepressant behavioral responses were assayed in the open-field, plus-maze, and forced swimming test, respectively, after administration of 1000 mg/kg, p.o., of the whole P. cubensis mushroom or the polar aqueous (AQ) or methanolic (MeOH) extractions (1, 10, and/or 100 mg/kg, i.p.) in comparison to the reference drugs buspirone (4 mg/kg, i.p.), fluoxetine and/or imipramine (10 mg/kg, s.c. and i.p., respectively). A chemical analysis of the AQ and MeOH extractions was performed to detect psilocybin and/or psilocin by using UHPLC. RESULTS Neurotoxic effects of P. cubensis mushroom administered at high doses were absent in mice assessed in the rota-rod test or for EEG activity. A LD50 > 2000 mg/kg was calculated by p.o. or i.p. administration. While significant and/or dose-response antidepressant-like effects were produced with the whole P. cubensis mushroom, p.o., and after parenteral administration of the AQ or MeOH extractions resembling the effects of the reference drugs. Behavioral responses were associated with an anxiolytic-like effect in the open-field as corroborated in the plus-maze tests. The presence of psilocybin and psilocin was mainly characterized in the AQ extraction. CONCLUSION Our results provide preclinical evidence of the anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of the P. cubensis mushroom without producing neurotoxicity after enteral or parenteral administration, where psilocybin and psilocin were identified mainly after AQ extraction. This study reinforces the benefits of the P. cubensis mushroom in mental health and therapy for anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Hernandez-Leon
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología de Productos Naturales, Dirección de Investigaciones en Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Calz. México-Xochimilco 101, Colonia Huipulco, Alcaldía Tlalpan, C.P. 14370, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Raúl Iván Escamilla-Orozco
- Servicios Clínicos, Dirección de Servicios Clínicos, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Calz. México-Xochimilco 101, Colonia Huipulco, Alcaldía Tlalpan, C.P. 14370, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Aylín R Tabal-Robles
- Área Académica de Química, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Km. 4.5 Carretera Pachuca-Tulancingo, Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo, C.P. 42184, Mexico.
| | - David Martínez-Vargas
- Laboratorio de Neurofisiología del Control y la Regulación, Dirección de Investigaciones en Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Calz México-Xochimilco 101, Colonia Huipulco, Alcaldía Tlalpan, C.P. 14370, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Leticia Romero-Bautista
- Laboratorio de Micología Integral, Área Académica de Biología, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Km 4.5 Carretera Pachuca-Tulancingo, Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo, C.P. 42184, Mexico.
| | - Gerson Escamilla-Soto
- Universidad Virtual del Estado de Michoacán, Defensor de Chapultepec 1175, Reserva de Guadalupe, Morelia, Michoacán, C.P. 58147, Mexico.
| | - Osiris S González-Romero
- University of Saskatchewan, Department of History, Research Group "History of Medicine", 5A5, 9 Campus Dr. #619, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 4L3, Canada.
| | - Martín Torres-Valencia
- Área Académica de Química, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Km. 4.5 Carretera Pachuca-Tulancingo, Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo, C.P. 42184, Mexico.
| | - María Eva González-Trujano
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología de Productos Naturales, Dirección de Investigaciones en Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Calz. México-Xochimilco 101, Colonia Huipulco, Alcaldía Tlalpan, C.P. 14370, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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Petranker R, Anderson T, Fewster EC, Aberman Y, Hazan M, Gaffrey M, Seli P. Keeping the promise: a critique of the current state of microdosing research. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1217102. [PMID: 38374976 PMCID: PMC10875010 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1217102] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The practice of taking small, sub-hallucinogenic doses of psychedelics, known as microdosing, has exploded in popularity over the last decade. Users claim benefits ranging from improved mood and enhanced creativity to an increased sense of meaning and connectedness in life. While research on microdosing is still lagging behind the shift in public opinion, several papers have been published in the last five years which attempted to assess the effects of microdosing. Methods This review paper aimed to critically analyze the research practices used in the recent wave of microdosing research: We reviewed 15 papers published before the closing date of this review in March 2022. Results Our review concludes that it is premature to draw any conclusions about the efficacy or safety of microdosing since the research quality cannot be considered confirmatory. Discussion We propose some potential causes for the current state of the literature and some suggestions for how these causes may be ameliorated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rotem Petranker
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Thomas Anderson
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Marik Hazan
- Independent Researcher, New York, NY, United States
| | - Michael Gaffrey
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Paul Seli
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
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Dong L, Li L, Wu Y, Zhao X, Zhong H, Cheng X, Liu L, Cheng C, Ouyang M, Tao L. A Systematic Review of Interventions for Demoralization in Patients with Chronic Diseases. Int J Behav Med 2024:10.1007/s12529-024-10262-w. [PMID: 38316668 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-024-10262-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Demoralization, a significant mental health concern in patients with chronic diseases, can have a large impact on physical symptom burden and quality of life. The present review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions for demoralization among patients with chronic diseases. METHOD PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science were systematically searched. Research on providing interventions to patients with chronic diseases that included quantitative data on demoralization was then systematically reviewed. RESULTS Fourteen studies were included, most of which considered demoralization as a secondary outcome. Interventions included evidence-based meaning-centered psychotherapy, dignity therapy, psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy, and others. Ten studies used randomized controlled designs. Six of these investigated evidence-based meaning-centered therapy, and four investigated dignity therapy, showing the best empirical support for these intervention types. Most studies showed significant impacts on demoralization in patients with chronic diseases. CONCLUSION This systematic review provides insights into potential psychological interventions for reducing demoralization in patients with chronic diseases. Randomized controlled designs and adequately powered samples, with demoralization as the primary outcome, are needed to more clearly evaluate its effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Dong
- Department of Nursing, The Second People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, 644000, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Nursing, The Second People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, 644000, China
| | - Yunlian Wu
- Department of Nursing, The Second People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, 644000, China
| | - Xiaoling Zhao
- Department of Nursing, The Second People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, 644000, China
| | - Hui Zhong
- Department of Nursing, The Second People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, 644000, China
| | - Xi Cheng
- Department of Nursing, The Second People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, 644000, China
| | - Lixia Liu
- Department of Nursing, The Second People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, 644000, China
| | - Changxia Cheng
- Department of Nursing, The Second People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, 644000, China
| | - Mingqiu Ouyang
- Department of Nursing, The Second People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, 644000, China
| | - Liande Tao
- Department of Nursing, The Second People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, 644000, China.
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Videira NB, Nair V, Paquet V, Calhoun D. The changing outlook of psychedelic drugs: The importance of risk assessment and occupational exposure limits. J Appl Toxicol 2024; 44:216-234. [PMID: 37646119 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, dimethyltryptamine (DMT), and 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), are currently being investigated for the treatment of psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety. Clinical trials with psilocybin and LSD have shown improvement in emotional and psychological scores. Although these drugs are reported to be safe in a controlled environment (such as clinical trials), exposure to low doses of these drugs can result in psychedelic effects, and therefore, occupational safety is an important consideration to prevent adverse effects in the workplace from low daily exposure. This article will discuss the factors involved in the derivation of occupational exposure limits (OELs) and risk assessment of these psychedelic drugs. To support the OEL derivations of psychedelic drugs, information regarding their mechanism of action, adverse effect profiles, pharmacokinetics, clinical effects, and nonclinical toxicity were considered. Additionally, psilocybin and LSD, which are the most extensively researched psychedelic substances, are employed as illustrative examples in case studies. The OELs derived for psilocybin and for LSD are 0.05 and 0.002 μg/m3 , respectively, which indicates that these are highly hazardous compounds, and it is important to take into account suitable safety measures and risk-management strategies in order to minimize workplace exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Valérie Paquet
- formerly Affygility Solutions, Broomfield, Colorado, USA
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Burback L, Brémault-Phillips S, Nijdam MJ, McFarlane A, Vermetten E. Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A State-of-the-art Review. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:557-635. [PMID: 37132142 PMCID: PMC10845104 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230428091433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
This narrative state-of-the-art review paper describes the progress in the understanding and treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Over the last four decades, the scientific landscape has matured, with many interdisciplinary contributions to understanding its diagnosis, etiology, and epidemiology. Advances in genetics, neurobiology, stress pathophysiology, and brain imaging have made it apparent that chronic PTSD is a systemic disorder with high allostatic load. The current state of PTSD treatment includes a wide variety of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches, of which many are evidence-based. However, the myriad challenges inherent in the disorder, such as individual and systemic barriers to good treatment outcome, comorbidity, emotional dysregulation, suicidality, dissociation, substance use, and trauma-related guilt and shame, often render treatment response suboptimal. These challenges are discussed as drivers for emerging novel treatment approaches, including early interventions in the Golden Hours, pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions, medication augmentation interventions, the use of psychedelics, as well as interventions targeting the brain and nervous system. All of this aims to improve symptom relief and clinical outcomes. Finally, a phase orientation to treatment is recognized as a tool to strategize treatment of the disorder, and position interventions in step with the progression of the pathophysiology. Revisions to guidelines and systems of care will be needed to incorporate innovative treatments as evidence emerges and they become mainstream. This generation is well-positioned to address the devastating and often chronic disabling impact of traumatic stress events through holistic, cutting-edge clinical efforts and interdisciplinary research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Burback
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - Mirjam J. Nijdam
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Center, Diemen, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Eric Vermetten
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
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Beurel E. Stress in the microbiome-immune crosstalk. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2327409. [PMID: 38488630 PMCID: PMC10950285 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2327409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiota exerts a mutualistic interaction with the host in a fragile ecosystem and the host intestinal, neural, and immune cells. Perturbations of the gastrointestinal track composition after stress have profound consequences on the central nervous system and the immune system. Reciprocally, brain signals after stress affect the gut microbiota highlighting the bidirectional communication between the brain and the gut. Here, we focus on the potential role of inflammation in mediating stress-induced gut-brain changes and discuss the impact of several immune cells and inflammatory molecules of the gut-brain dialogue after stress. Understanding the impact of microbial changes on the immune system after stress might provide new avenues for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eléonore Beurel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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Gonzales SAB, Alexopoulos C, Arkfeld DG. Potential Benefits of Psilocybin for Lupus Pain: A Case Report. Curr Rheumatol Rev 2024; 20:97-99. [PMID: 37670693 DOI: 10.2174/1573397119666230904150750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Outcomes of treatment for patients with Lupus have shown overall improvement and benefit from the more aggressive use of immunosuppressants and biological agents through a treat-to-target approach. However, chronic musculoskeletal pain can be refractory to treatment despite the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and other analgesic agents, leading to patient dissatisfaction. The concept of new neural pathways from psilocybin usage has been proposed in a variety of pain syndromes; however, it is not trialed for patients with Lupus pain. CASE PRESENTATION The patient was a 67-year-old male with positive anti-dsDNA antibody Lupus with a predominance of chronic polyarticular joint pain treated with hydroxychloroquine and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs without pain relief. Pain dramatically improved after a one-time macro-dosing of 6 grams of Psilocybin cubensis in Oregon, which he expected would only provide a sense of enlightenment. After 12 months, he continued without debilitating joint pain. CONCLUSION The serotonin-2A receptor's activation triggers an array of neurophysiological reactions that disrupt the functional connections in areas of the brain that are associated with chronic pain. These neuroplastic effects can generate healthy connections, resulting in long-lasting pain relief. However, this is a process that has not been fully analyzed. While there is anecdotal evidence to suggest the therapeutic benefits for autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, there is no specific research that explores its use for lupus-related pain. Since this is the first case that shows the benefit of psilocybin in a patient with Lupus, further studies on macro-dosing psilocybin to treat Lupus pain are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Audrey B Gonzales
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Southern California, 1520 San Pablo St Los Angeles, CA90033-5310, United States
| | - Christine Alexopoulos
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Southern California, 1520 San Pablo St Los Angeles, CA90033-5310, United States
| | - Daniel G Arkfeld
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Southern California, 1520 San Pablo St Los Angeles, CA90033-5310, United States
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Danias G, Appel J. Public Interest in Psilocybin and Psychedelic Therapy in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Google Trends Analysis. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e43850. [PMID: 38064635 PMCID: PMC10760628 DOI: 10.2196/43850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychedelic substances have demonstrated promise in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Significant media coverage has been dedicated to psychedelic medicine, but it is unclear whether the public associates psilocybin with its potential therapeutic benefits. The COVID-19 pandemic led to an increase in depression, anxiety, and substance abuse in the general population. OBJECTIVE This study attempts to link increases in interest in these disorders with increases in interest in psilocybin using Google Trends. METHODS Weekly interest-over-time Google Trends data for 4 years, from the week of March 11, 2018, to the week of March 6, 2022, were obtained for the following terms: "psilocybin," "psychedelic therapy," "cannabis," "cocaine," "antidepressant," "depression," "anxiety," and "addiction." Important psilocybin-related news and the declaration of the pandemic were noted. Trends data for each of the queried terms were plotted, and multiple regression analysis was performed to determine the slope of the prepandemic and postpandemic data with 95% CIs. Nonparametric Tau-U analysis was performed correcting for baseline trends. Results from this test were used to make inferences about the pre- and postpandemic trends and inferences about the change in overall level of searches between the 2 groups. RESULTS Tau values for prepandemic data were significant for stable trends, all ranging -0.4 to 0.4. Tau values for postpandemic data showed positive trends for "psilocybin," "psychedelic therapy," and "antidepressant." All other trends remained stable in the range of -0.4 to 0.4. When comparing Tau values for pre- and postpandemic data, overall increases in relative search volume (RSV) were seen for "psilocybin," "psychedelic therapy," and "anxiety," and overall decreases in RSV were seen for "depression," "addiction," and "cocaine." Overall RSVs for "cannabis" and "antidepressant" remained stable as Tau values ranged between -0.4 and 0.4. In the immediate aftermath of the declaration of the pandemic, drop-offs in interest were seen for all terms except for "anxiety" and "cannabis." After the initial shock of a global pandemic, "psilocybin" and "psychedelic therapy" groups demonstrated increases in interest trends and overall RSV. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that overall interest in "psilocybin" and "psychedelic therapy" increased at higher rates and to higher levels after than before the declaration of the pandemic. This is consistent with our hypothesis that interest increased for these treatments after the pandemic as incidence of depression, anxiety, and addiction increased. However, there may be other drivers of interest for these topics, since interest in antidepressants-the typical pharmacologic treatments for depression and anxiety-followed the expected pattern of drop-off and accelerated interest back to prepandemic levels. Interest in "psilocybin" and "psychedelic therapy" may have also been partially driven by popular culture hype and novelty, explaining why interest increased at a higher rate post pandemic and continued to grow, surpassing prior interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Danias
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jacob Appel
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
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Shah FI, Shehzadi S, Akram F, Haq IU, Javed B, Sabir S, Kazim Y, Ashfaq S. Unveiling the Psychedelic Journey: An Appraisal of Psilocybin as a Profound Antidepressant Therapy. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00994-7. [PMID: 38117395 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00994-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Depression, a global health concern with significant implications for suicide rates, remains challenging to treat effectively with conventional pharmacological options. The existing pharmaceutical interventions for these illnesses need daily dosing, are accompanied by various adverse effects, and may exhibit limited efficacy in certain cases. However, hope emerges from an unlikely source-Psilocybin, a natural hallucinogen found in certain mushrooms. Recently, this enigmatic compound has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic benefits in addressing various mental health issues, including depression. Psilocybin alters mood, cognition, and perception by acting on a particular subtype of serotonin receptors in the brain. It's feasible that these shifts in consciousness will promote healing development, offering a novel approach to depression management. This comprehensive review explores psilocybin, derived from specific mushrooms, and its implications in the treatment of depression. The study examines new perspectives and therapeutic possibilities surrounding psilocybin, addressing existing gaps in academic literature. It delves into its biosynthesis, unique mechanisms of action, therapeutic applications, and anti-depressive effects. By uncovering the potential of this mind-altering substance, the review aims to advance psychiatric care, offering hope to those globally affected by depression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fatima Akram
- Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Government College University, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan.
| | - Ikram Ul Haq
- Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Government College University, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
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Pepe M, Hesami M, de la Cerda KA, Perreault ML, Hsiang T, Jones AMP. A journey with psychedelic mushrooms: From historical relevance to biology, cultivation, medicinal uses, biotechnology, and beyond. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 69:108247. [PMID: 37659744 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Psychedelic mushrooms containing psilocybin and related tryptamines have long been used for ethnomycological purposes, but emerging evidence points to the potential therapeutic value of these mushrooms to address modern neurological, psychiatric health, and related disorders. As a result, psilocybin containing mushrooms represent a re-emerging frontier for mycological, biochemical, neuroscience, and pharmacology research. This work presents crucial information related to traditional use of psychedelic mushrooms, as well as research trends and knowledge gaps related to their diversity and distribution, technologies for quantification of tryptamines and other tryptophan-derived metabolites, as well as biosynthetic mechanisms for their production within mushrooms. In addition, we explore the current state of knowledge for how psilocybin and related tryptamines are metabolized in humans and their pharmacological effects, including beneficial and hazardous human health implications. Finally, we describe opportunities and challenges for investigating the production of psychedelic mushrooms and metabolic engineering approaches to alter secondary metabolite profiles using biotechnology integrated with machine learning. Ultimately, this critical review of all aspects related to psychedelic mushrooms represents a roadmap for future research efforts that will pave the way to new applications and refined protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Pepe
- Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Guelph, Canada
| | - Mohsen Hesami
- Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Guelph, Canada
| | - Karla A de la Cerda
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Guelph, Canada
| | - Melissa L Perreault
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tom Hsiang
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Guelph, Canada
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Śladowska K, Kawalec P, Brzostek T, Pilc A. Potential use of psilocybin drugs in the treatment of depression. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2023; 28:241-256. [PMID: 37817501 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2023.2264180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Depression is a common disabling psychiatric disorder, which - in extreme cases - may lead to suicide if untreated or inadequately treated. Despite the availability of various treatments for depression, including pharmacotherapy, there is still a need to search for new agents with higher effectiveness and faster onset of action, especially for patients with treatment-resistant depression. AREAS COVERED A substance that has attracted considerable attention for nearly a decade is psilocybin, a natural psychedelic found in psilocybin mushrooms. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of psilocybin in the treatment of depression, based on pivotal randomized clinical trials. Moreover, we used findings from observational studies regarding recreational use. We also looked at ongoing clinical trials and discussed the registration status and clinical potential of the drug. EXPERT OPINION Clinical phase I-II trials published to date reported promising results for psilocybin in the treatment of patients with major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression, in a relatively short time after administration. However, before psilocybin is approved for use and administered to patients with depression, the results of large ongoing phase III clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety and to change the way it is perceived by physicians and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Śladowska
- Department of Nutrition and Drug Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Paweł Kawalec
- Department of Nutrition and Drug Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Tomasz Brzostek
- Department of Internal and Community Nursing, Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Andrzej Pilc
- Department of Nutrition and Drug Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
- Department of Neurobiology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
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Pires B, Rosendo LM, Brinca AT, Simão AY, Barroso M, Rosado T, Gallardo E. The Therapeutic Potential of Amphetamine-like Psychostimulants. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2180. [PMID: 38004320 PMCID: PMC10671856 DOI: 10.3390/life13112180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This review delves into the therapeutic applications of amphetamine-type stimulants such as lisdexamphetamine dimesylate, mixed amphetamine salts, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), dextroamphetamine, and phentermine. These compounds have been investigated for their potential in treating a range of psychiatric disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), drug dependence, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obesity. Lisdexamphetamine dimesylate has shown promise in effectively treating ADHD symptoms in both children and adults. Additionally, it has been explored as a potential treatment for drug dependency and withdrawal, demonstrating encouraging results. Mixed amphetamine salts have also exhibited efficacy in reducing ADHD symptoms in adults. Future research should explore their potential use in treating bipolar disorder and cocaine dependence, considering the associated risks and benefits. MDMA-assisted psychotherapy has emerged as an innovative approach to treating PTSD, leading to sustained reductions in symptoms and even promoting post-traumatic growth. Furthermore, it has shown promise in managing anxiety related to life-threatening illnesses. Dextroamphetamine and phentermine have demonstrated efficacy in treating cocaine and opioid dependence, ADHD, and obesity. However, careful consideration and monitoring by medical professionals are essential due to the potential risks and benefits associated with them. In conclusion, amphetamine-type stimulants present a promising avenue for therapeutic interventions in various psychiatric conditions. Nevertheless, further research is necessary to comprehensively understand their mechanisms of action, dosage requirements, and long-term effects in different patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Pires
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (B.P.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (A.Y.S.)
| | - Luana M. Rosendo
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (B.P.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (A.Y.S.)
| | - Ana Teresa Brinca
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (B.P.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (A.Y.S.)
| | - Ana Y. Simão
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (B.P.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (A.Y.S.)
- Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-000 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Mário Barroso
- Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses, Delegação do Sul, 1150-219 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - Tiago Rosado
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (B.P.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (A.Y.S.)
- Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-000 Covilhã, Portugal
- Centro Académico Clínico das Beiras (CACB)—Missão de Problemas Relacionados com Toxicofilias, 6200-000 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Eugenia Gallardo
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (B.P.); (L.M.R.); (A.T.B.); (A.Y.S.)
- Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-000 Covilhã, Portugal
- Centro Académico Clínico das Beiras (CACB)—Missão de Problemas Relacionados com Toxicofilias, 6200-000 Covilhã, Portugal
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Sharma R, Batchelor R, Sin J. Psychedelic Treatments for Substance Use Disorder and Substance Misuse: A Mixed Methods Systematic Review. J Psychoactive Drugs 2023; 55:612-630. [PMID: 36933948 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2023.2190319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2023]
Abstract
Renewed interest in psychedelic substances in the 21st century has seen the exploration of psychedelic treatments for various psychiatric disorders including substance use disorder (SUD). This review aimed to assess the effectiveness of psychedelic treatments for people with SUD and those falling below diagnostic thresholds (i.e. substance misuse). We systematically searched 11 databases, trial registries, and psychedelic organization websites for empirical studies examining adults undergoing psychedelic treatment for SUD or substance misuse, published in the English language, between 2000 and 2021. Seven studies investigating treatment using psilocybin, ibogaine, and ayahuasca, alone or adjunct with psychotherapy reported across 10 papers were included. Measures of abstinence, substance use, psychological and psychosocial outcomes, craving, and withdrawal reported positive results, however, this data was scarce among studies examining a wide range of addictions including opioid, nicotine, alcohol, cocaine and unspecified substance. The qualitative synthesis from three studies described subjective experience of psychedelic-assisted treatments enhanced self-awareness, insight, and confidence. At present, there is no sufficient research evidence to suggest effectiveness of any of the psychedelics on any specific substance use disorder or substance misuse. Further research using rigorous effectiveness evaluation methods with larger sample sizes and longer-term follow-up is required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel Batchelor
- School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, England, London, UK
| | - Jacqueline Sin
- School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, England, London, UK
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Haikazian S, Chen-Li DCJ, Johnson DE, Fancy F, Levinta A, Husain MI, Mansur RB, McIntyre RS, Rosenblat JD. Psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2023; 329:115531. [PMID: 37844352 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this review was to determine the effect of psilocybin on depressive symptoms in patients diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses or major depressive disorder. Systematic searches were conducted to search for randomized clinical trials and open-label trials that evaluated depression symptoms after psilocybin therapy. Data was pooled using a random-effects model. The primary outcome was the standardized mean difference (SMD) in depression severity, determined by calculating the change in depression ratings from baseline to the primary endpoint in the psilocybin arm versus the control arm. The literature search yielded 1734 studies, and 13 studies (n = 686) were included in either qualitative and/or quantitative analyses. The meta-analysis included 9 studies (pooled n = 596) and yielded a large effect size in favour of psilocybin (SMD = -0.78; p<0.001). Risk ratios for response and remission were large and significant in favour of psilocybin. A review of open-label trials showed robust decreases in depressive symptoms following psilocybin administration. These findings provide preliminary evidence for antidepressant efficacy with psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy, however, further studies are needed to evaluate safety and efficacy and to optimize treatment protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sipan Haikazian
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Depression Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David C J Chen-Li
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Depression Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Danica E Johnson
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Depression Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Farhan Fancy
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Depression Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anastasia Levinta
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Depression Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - M Ishrat Husain
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rodrigo B Mansur
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Depression Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Roger S McIntyre
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Depression Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Canadian Rapid Treatment Center of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada; Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joshua D Rosenblat
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Depression Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Escamilla R, González-Trujano ME, González Mariscal JM, Torres-Valencia JM, Guzmán-González H, Vega JL, Loizaga-Velder A. A Proposal to Study the Safety and Efficacy of Psilocybe cubensis in Preclinical and Clinical Studies as a Therapeutic Alternative for Major Depressive Disorder. J Psychoactive Drugs 2023; 55:570-580. [PMID: 37594163 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2023.2246459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
The pharmacological treatment of depression consists of taking antidepressant drugs for prolonged periods; its modest therapeutic effect can often be associated with significant adverse effects, while its discontinuation can lead to relapses. Psilocybin is today a novel and breakthrough therapy for major depression. It is a natural alkaloid in Psilocybe mushrooms, which are endemic to Mexico. Research on a larger scale is lacking in various populations, including the Mexican people. This proposal contemplates the experimental design of a preclinical (toxicity and pharmacological evaluation of an extract in mice) and clinical study by including the chemical analysis of a species of Psilocybe cubensis mushroom to characterize its main constituents. The clinical study will consider the safety evaluation by exploring tolerated doses of Psilocybe cubensis by measuring pharmacokinetic parameters after oral administration in healthy adults and an open trial on a sample of patients with major depressive disorder to assess the safety and efficacy of fully characterized Psilocybe cubensis in a two-single doses treatment, (with assisted psychotherapy), compared with the traditional care model at the Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz in Mexico City. This report presents the design of a research project with preclinical and clinical experimental components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul Escamilla
- Servicios Clínicos. Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz (INPRFM), Mexico city, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - Héctor Guzmán-González
- Servicios Clínicos. Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz (INPRFM), Mexico city, Mexico
| | - José Luis Vega
- Servicios Clínicos. Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz (INPRFM), Mexico city, Mexico
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Halim HJ, Burk BG, Fargason RE, Birur B. Manic episode following psilocybin use in a man with bipolar II disorder: a case report. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1221131. [PMID: 37810598 PMCID: PMC10556490 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1221131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been an increase in research on the topic of psychedelic substances and their effects as treatment options in neuropsychiatric conditions. Psilocybin is a psychedelic drug that has recently garnered increased interest as an effective treatment modality for treatment-resistant depression, depression associated with terminal conditions, certain substance use disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. However, sparse data exist as to the effects that psilocybin might have on patients at risk for mania, in large part secondary to the exclusion of this patient population from studies due to the concern for inducing mania or worsening illness course. We describe a case of a 21-year-old male with a recent diagnosis of bipolar II disorder who developed a manic episode following the ingestion of psilocybin in the form of hallucinogenic mushrooms. Given the incidence of depression in those with bipolar disorder, impulsivity, and a tendency to abuse substances associated with the illness, further research is needed into the risks of psilocybin and other psychedelic use in those with bipolar disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haniya J. Halim
- PGY3 Psychiatry Resident, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Bradley G. Burk
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Rachel E. Fargason
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Badari Birur
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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Garakani A, Alexander JL, Sumner CR, Pine JH, Gross LS, Raison CL, Aaronson ST, Baron DA. Psychedelics, With a Focus on Psilocybin: Issues for the Clinician. J Psychiatr Pract 2023; 29:345-353. [PMID: 37678363 DOI: 10.1097/pra.0000000000000729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
There has been a burgeoning interest in psychedelics among the public, state legislatures, psychiatrists and other clinical providers, and within the research community. Increasing numbers of studies evaluating psychedelics for depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorders have been conducted or are underway. While discussing psychedelics in general, the focus of this paper is on psilocybin and its mechanism, how it exerts a psychedelic effect, dosing, and a review of the treatment studies of psilocybin, which were primarily for treatment-resistant depression and cancer-related anxiety. Future directions and potential limitations of studying and regulating psilocybin and other psychedelics are also discussed.
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