Psychedelic Drugs

A new computer simulation based on brain scans shows how LSD alters the balance of excitement and inhibition in specific neural circuits. These chemical changes silence sensory pathways and boost abstract thought, unifying the brain into a highly synchronized state.

Could psychedelics help prevent migraines? A new study of identical twins suggests that men who use substances like psilocybin and LSD have nearly three times lower odds of experiencing migraines compared to their twin brothers who don't.

In recent FDA Phase 2 trials, a single dose of the experimental psychedelic luvesilocin eliminated postpartum depression symptoms in 71% of patients within seven days. The breakthrough medication will enter Phase 3 trials by late 2026.

A new review of nearly 50 studies suggests classic psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD can cause lasting personality changes. Research links the use of these substances to long-term increases in openness and significant drops in neuroticism.

A single dose of psilocybin reduces the drive to seek out rewards by increasing the activity of inhibitory brain cells. These findings help explain how psychedelics might induce long-lasting changes in brain circuits to treat substance use disorders.

Psilocybin could help patients with chronic cluster headaches sleep better, according to a recent study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology. Researchers also noted subtle shifts in brain microstructure that tend to accompany these improvements in rest.

A new analysis of combined brain imaging data from 273 people reveals how classic psychedelics flatten the brain’s strict processing hierarchy, increasing communication between sensory systems and the cognitive regions responsible for abstract thought.

People who regularly use psychedelic drugs outside of clinical settings process threatening facial expressions more efficiently than nonusers, according to recent brain imaging research. The scans reveal distinct neural habits that might explain the enduring emotional benefits of these substances.

A recent study in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry suggests that a single dose of psilocybin, paired with psychological support, may rapidly and safely reduce chronic suicidal thoughts in adults with severe, treatment-resistant depression.

Adults with a history of childhood trauma who use psychedelics at raves or ceremonies may experience mental health improvements. New research suggests these communal settings are associated with reductions in PTSD symptoms and feelings of shame.

The largest study to date on hallucinogen persisting perceptual disorder suggests the condition is closely tied to anxiety and functional somatic syndromes. Researchers hope these findings will pave the way for better, more targeted treatments.

A new study of drug-related fatalities suggests that having antidepressants actively circulating in the body is associated with a lower risk of death from MDMA, raising new questions for psychiatric researchers developing trauma therapies.

A new pilot study suggests that combining the psychedelic compound psilocybin with cognitive behavioral therapy is well-tolerated and highly effective at reducing symptoms of clinical depression. Researchers observed profound improvements in patients' moods and emotional regulation.

A major national survey reveals that 2.8% of Americans over the age of 12 used psilocybin in 2024. The study found strong links between magic mushroom use, cannabis consumption, and recent struggles with depression.