Research Keyword: clinical pharmacology

Acute Effects of Psilocybin After Escitalopram or Placebo Pretreatment in a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study in Healthy Subjects

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This study examined whether taking the antidepressant escitalopram before using psilocybin affects the drug’s effects. Twenty-three healthy participants took either escitalopram or placebo for two weeks, then received a dose of psilocybin. Surprisingly, escitalopram did not reduce the positive mood effects of psilocybin and actually reduced some negative side effects like anxiety and bad feelings. The combination appeared safe with no increased cardiovascular risks.

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Ketanserin Reverses the Acute Response to LSD in a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study in Healthy Participants

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Researchers tested whether ketanserin, a drug that blocks serotonin receptors, could stop or reverse an LSD experience once it had already started. In a controlled study with healthy volunteers, ketanserin given one hour after LSD administration cut the duration of the LSD experience from 8.5 hours down to 3.5 hours and eliminated visual and auditory hallucinations. This finding suggests ketanserin could be useful as an emergency medication in psychedelic-assisted therapy to help patients who have negative reactions to LSD.

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How to account for hallucinations in the interpretation of the antidepressant effects of psychedelics: a translational framework

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Psychedelic drugs like LSD and psilocybin show promise in treating depression with effects lasting months after single doses. However, scientists debate whether the hallucinations and mystical experiences these drugs produce are necessary for their healing effects. This review proposes a framework to test whether lower doses without hallucinations might still provide antidepressant benefits, similar to how anesthesia-administered ketamine works without the patient’s awareness.

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Implementing psychedelic-assisted therapy: History and characteristics of the Swiss limited medical use program

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Switzerland operates a unique program allowing controlled use of psychedelics (LSD, psilocybin) and MDMA to help patients with serious mental health conditions that haven’t responded to standard treatments. Since 2014, about 100 doctors have treated 700+ patients with these substances as part of therapy sessions. The program requires careful patient screening, informed consent, and outcome reporting, with patients typically receiving 2-4 treatments over 12 months. Most patients showed significant improvement in their conditions, though some experienced side effects like nausea or headaches.

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Evaluation of the Indazole Analogs of 5-MeO-DMT and Related Tryptamines as Serotonin Receptor 2 Agonists

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Researchers synthesized new drug candidates based on psychedelic molecules like 5-MeO-DMT, replacing the indole core with indazole scaffolds to potentially improve drug properties. While the lead compound VU6067416 showed excellent potency for serotonin receptors and favorable pharmacokinetics, it also activated 5-HT2B receptors strongly, raising safety concerns about heart problems. The study highlights the challenge of developing selective serotonin drugs and emphasizes the need for rigorous safety testing of psychedelic-based therapeutics.

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Effects of hallucinogenic drugs on the human heart

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Hallucinogenic drugs like LSD and psilocybin affect not only the brain but also the heart. These drugs increase heart rate and contractility mainly through specific serotonin and histamine receptors. While these effects might have therapeutic potential for psychiatric conditions, prolonged use can damage heart valves and cause dangerous arrhythmias. Understanding these cardiac effects is crucial for safe medical use and treatment of overdoses.

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Herbal Supplement-Induced Liver Injury: A Case Report

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A 45-year-old woman developed severe liver injury after drinking an herbal tea containing multiple ingredients, including reishi mushroom and aloe vera. Her liver function gradually improved after she stopped drinking the tea, with complete recovery within three months. This case demonstrates that herbal supplements, often perceived as safe, can cause serious liver damage and should be investigated when patients develop unexplained liver problems.

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