Disease: addiction

Molecular and Functional Imaging Studies of Psychedelic Drug Action in Animals and Humans

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This comprehensive review examines how scientists use advanced imaging techniques like PET and SPECT scans to study how hallucinogenic drugs such as LSD and psilocybin interact with the brain. The research shows these drugs primarily bind to serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A subtype, which appear responsible for producing hallucinations. While scientific understanding of hallucinogen mechanisms has advanced significantly, there is still much to learn about their complete effects on brain chemistry and their potential therapeutic applications.

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PolDrugs 2025: results of the third edition of the nationwide study on psychoactive substance use in the context of psychiatry and harm reduction

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This Polish study surveyed nearly 2,500 recreational drug users about their substance use patterns and mental health. The survey found that marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug, but worryingly, most users don’t test what they’re taking or measure doses carefully. The study also revealed increasing use of mephedrone and other stimulants that are sending more people to hospitals, while interest in psychedelics is declining. Importantly, more people are now seeing psychiatrists and being honest about their drug use.

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Psychedelic Mushrooms in the USA: Knowledge, Patterns of Use, and Association With Health Outcomes

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This study surveyed over 250 million representative American adults about their use of psychedelic mushrooms. Researchers found that about 1.7% of US adults used psychedelic mushrooms in the past year, primarily for general mental health and well-being. Interestingly, those who used them reported higher levels of depression and anxiety, suggesting people with mental health challenges may be self-treating with mushrooms. The findings highlight the need for evidence-based guidelines as more Americans explore psychedelics for health purposes.

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Extensive Collection of Psychotropic Mushrooms with Determination of Their Tryptamine Alkaloids

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Scientists analyzed 226 mushroom samples from about 30 psychotropic species to measure their psilocybin and related compound content. They found that the amounts of these compounds vary greatly, even within the same species, making it difficult to predict how strong a mushroom will be. The research shows that Psilocybe species generally contain the most psychoactive compounds, with some varieties containing over 15 times more psilocybin than others, highlighting safety concerns for users.

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We need to talk about shrooms

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The article discusses how psychedelic mushrooms have transformed from being seen as dangerous drugs in the 1960s to being studied as potential psychiatric treatments today. While research shows promise for treating depression, trauma, and addiction, the author warns against oversimplified narratives that ignore important context about how these experiences work and potential risks. The piece calls for careful, balanced discussion about psychedelics that considers both benefits and concerns.

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Toxicology and Analysis of Psychoactive Tryptamines

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Tryptamines are a growing class of psychoactive drugs that can cause hallucinations and other dramatic changes in perception. These substances, including compounds like DMT and psilocybin from magic mushrooms, work by affecting serotonin receptors in the brain. While some research explores their potential medical use for treating depression and anxiety, they also carry serious risks including dangerous changes in heart rate, body temperature, and mental state. Scientists have developed new laboratory methods to detect these drugs in blood and urine samples to help doctors diagnose and treat overdoses.

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Psilocybin as Transformative Fast-Acting Antidepressant: Pharmacological Properties and Molecular Mechanisms

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Psilocybin, a compound from certain mushrooms, is being studied as a potential rapid-acting treatment for severe depression that doesn’t respond to standard antidepressants. Unlike conventional antidepressants that take weeks to work, psilocybin shows promise for producing mood improvements within days. The drug works by activating serotonin receptors in the brain and promoting the growth of new neural connections, though researchers are still working to fully understand how it achieves its antidepressant effects.

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