Psychopharmacology

A new study suggests that the widely reported life-changing benefits of psychedelics might be somewhat exaggerated. Researchers found that studies relying on "enthusiast" communities report significantly higher quality-of-life improvements compared to studies using a general population sample.

A new study suggests that meaningful psychedelic experiences reduce a person's fear of death by increasing their sense of connection to themselves, their loved ones, and the universe.

New research shows that combining specialized therapy with psychedelic substances like psilocybin or LSD offers notable relief for treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. This data from a Swiss clinical program highlights the promise of these treatments in everyday medical settings.

A new pilot study suggests that taking small, sub-perceptual doses of LSD could temporarily boost feelings of creativity and social connection in individuals with major depression. However, researchers caution that placebo-controlled trials are still needed.

A novel psychedelic drug promotes rapid structural growth in brain cells and reverses depressive behaviors in mice. The substance, 25C-NBF, appears to lack the addictive qualities and severe sensory disruptions associated with similar recreational drugs.

A single high dose of psilocybin can cause lasting physical changes in the human brain. Scientists found that temporary increases in brain randomness during the experience predict improved well-being and mental flexibility for at least a month.

A massive new meta-analysis reveals a staggering overlap between cannabis addiction and depression. Researchers found that over 30% of people with Cannabis Use Disorder also suffer from Major Depressive Disorder, highlighting a critical need for dual-diagnosis mental health treatments.

A new study shows that combining cocaine and alcohol changes the brain circuits responsible for drug relapse. This suggests treating people who use both substances will require entirely different medical approaches than treating those who only use cocaine.

A recent study finds that the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic significantly decreased heavy drinking in patients with obesity and alcohol use disorder. The findings suggest a potential new treatment path for millions of people.

Adolescents with a cannabis addiction are more likely to develop schizophrenia and depression than peers addicted to other substances. A recent study shows that this risk pattern reverses in adults, highlighting the vulnerability of the developing brain.

A single dose of psilocybin paired with behavioral therapy proved remarkably effective at helping cigarette smokers quit. A new clinical trial shows the psychedelic intervention substantially outperformed standard nicotine patches over a six-month tracking period.

A new clinical trial suggests that repeated doses of psilocybin can safely reduce symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder. The findings provide evidence that multiple weekly treatments offer lasting relief for those struggling with traditional therapies.

A moderate dose of caffeine does not elevate baseline anxiety in people with panic disorder, though it may make them slightly more likely to step away from uncomfortable situations.

A new study suggests that even low-level drinking over a lifetime may negatively affect brain health. Researchers found that cumulative light drinking, combined with aging, is linked to reduced blood flow and thinner tissue in the brain.

A yearlong observational study reveals that preserving emotional well-being might be the secret to naturally curbing alcohol consumption over time. The findings show that mental health heavily influences drinking habits, rather than the other way around.