Psychedelic Drugs

Vaporized DMT produced fast and lasting improvements in depression symptoms and suicidal ideation, according to a new phase 2a trial, highlighting its potential as a scalable, non-invasive alternative to conventional and long-acting psychedelic treatments for severe depression.

New findings reveal that 5-MeO-DMT, a fast-acting psychedelic, can change brain gene activity and reduce anxiety-related behavior in stressed mice, offering promising insights into its lasting effects and potential use in treating anxiety disorders.

French researchers surveyed hundreds of psychedelic users and found that mystical experiences predicted lasting improvements in psychological flexibility. These findings shed light on how psychedelics might promote emotional resilience by disrupting rigid thinking patterns and encouraging openness to experience.

A new study used fMRI and EEG to show that DMT reduces the energy needed for the brain to shift between activity states. These changes tracked with increased signal complexity and were strongest in regions rich in serotonin 2a receptors.

Psychedelics are often described as spiritual tools—but do they change people’s religious beliefs? A large new study found that while psychedelic use was associated with religious disaffiliation, it did not cause lasting changes in religiosity or spirituality over time.

A new open-label study suggests that a single dose of psilocybin, combined with psychological support, may reduce symptoms in people with severe treatment-resistant depression. Improvements were sustained for up to 12 weeks, although effects were weaker in those with PTSD.

Psilocybin use has surged across the U.S. in recent years, with the biggest increases seen among adults with depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.

Researchers investigating the psychedelic drug DOPR discovered that very low doses can enhance motivation in low-performing mice—without triggering behaviors linked to hallucinations. The findings point to the therapeutic potential of psychedelics at doses too low to alter perception.

In a groundbreaking case report, scientists administered psilocybin to a woman in a minimally conscious state and observed increased brain complexity and new spontaneous behavior—offering a glimpse into how psychedelics might influence consciousness in severe brain injury patients.

Psilocybin therapy produced surprising benefits in a small study of people with Parkinson’s disease. Beyond improving mood, the psychedelic treatment was linked to better motor function and cognitive performance.

New research shows that psychedelic use is often associated with changes in romantic relationships, sexual experiences, and gender identity. The study highlights how these experiences might foster self-acceptance, authenticity, and greater connection to others.

A new meta-analysis shows that reported antidepressant effects of psychedelics vary widely depending on the study design used.

A new study explores combining psilocybin microdosing with neurofeedback. The method appears feasible, though it’s unclear whether it meaningfully improves mental performance.

A new study suggests that meaningful psychedelic experiences may broaden the range of beings people see as morally worthy.

A new study suggests that emergency visits involving hallucinogens could be a warning sign for future schizophrenia, especially among younger adults.