MDMA for PTSD: A New Horizon in Mental Health Treatment

Written by Admin Strange DM on October 10, 2023. Posted in Mental Health, News, PTSD, Research. No Comments on MDMA for PTSD: A New Horizon in Mental Health Treatment

A groundbreaking study unveils the transformative power of MDMA-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) for individuals battling with moderate to severe posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), marking a significant stride in mental health treatment. This research, notable for its inclusion of a diverse ethnoracial participant base, underscores the safety and effectiveness of MDMA in alleviating the debilitating symptoms of PTSD.

The study reveals a glaring gap in the effectiveness of traditional trauma-focused psychotherapies and SSRIs, with up to 47% of PTSD patients remaining unresponsive. MDMA-AT emerges as a beacon of hope, promoting prosocial feelings and mitigating emotional challenges, enhancing the overall impact of psychotherapy.

The confirmatory phase 3 trial, MAPP2, involved 104 PTSD patients, offering compelling evidence of the substantial reduction in PTSD symptom severity and functional impairment among those treated with MDMA-AT. A remarkable 86.5% of participants experienced clinically meaningful benefits, with 71.2% no longer meeting the PTSD criteria by the study’s conclusion.

MDMA-AT’s safety profile is underscored by the transient and mild to moderate severity of treatment-emergent adverse events, with no increased risk of suicidal ideation or reports of MDMA abuse or dependence. This study illuminates MDMA-AT as a promising alternative, heralding a new era of enhanced, inclusive, and effective PTSD treatment, and positioning “MDMA for PTSD” at the forefront of psychiatric innovation.

Link to the original article from MDedge.

California Moves Closer to Legalizing Certain Psychedelic Drugs with Senate Bill 58

Written by Admin Strange DM on September 9, 2023. Posted in News, Psychedelic Assisted Therapy, Psychedelic Medicines. No Comments on California Moves Closer to Legalizing Certain Psychedelic Drugs with Senate Bill 58

California’s State Assembly has greenlighted Senate Bill 58, a pioneering legislation aiming to legalize the personal possession and use of select natural psychedelic substances for adults aged 21 and above. The bill, championed by San Francisco Democrat Scott Wiener, has undergone revisions in the Assembly following its approval by the Senate earlier this year.

The current version of the bill permits the possession and cultivation of restricted quantities of psilocybin, psilocin, mescaline, and dimethyltryptamine (DMT) – compounds found naturally in certain plants and fungi known for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health disorders like depression and PTSD. Advocates emphasize the significant promise these substances hold in alleviating the nation’s mounting mental health crisis, noting their non-addictive nature and capacity for healing.

The legislation mandates the establishment of a working group under the California Health and Human Services Agency to study the implications of psychedelic use, focusing on safety, efficacy in treating various mental health conditions, and the development of a regulated framework for therapeutic applications. This step signals a progressive move towards recognizing the potential benefits of psychedelics in treating an array of serious mental health conditions, as substantiated by numerous studies and clinical trials.

Senate Bill 58 has garnered substantial support, particularly among mental health clinicians and those struggling with mental health issues who have tried conventional therapies with no success, who see this as a hopeful avenue to access these promising plant-based medicines without criminal repercussions. The bill, which has faced amendments including the establishment of possession limits and the exclusion of synthetic psychedelics like LSD and MDMA, is slated to return to the Senate for approval of the changes before moving to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk for final endorsement.

The potential passage of this revolutionary bill could signify a watershed moment for psychedelic-assisted therapy clinics in California. As the bill directs the establishment of a structured group to conduct comprehensive studies and propose regulatory frameworks, it could pave the way for clinics to operate within a clearer, legally sanctioned environment. Furthermore, the clinics might witness a surge in demand as individuals seek individual and group therapy options that incorporate these newly legalized substances.

By potentially fostering collaborations with biopharmaceutical entities researching psychedelic compounds, these clinics could become frontiers of innovation, offering advanced, evidence-based treatment modalities for individuals grappling with persistent mental health conditions, thus marking a revolutionary shift in the landscape of mental health care in the state.

The Psychedelica Collective in Beverly Hills is at the forefront of this revolution, offering individual and group ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for those struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and a wide range of other mental health concerns. Call us today for a no-obligation consultation on whether ketamine-assisted therapy is right for you.

Link to full article on Forbes.

Discover the groundbreaking research study that highlights the remarkable promise of ketamine as a common mental health treatment. Learn how ketamine compares to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in treating treatment-resistant major depression, offering new hope for patients seeking effective relief from their symptoms.

Revolutionizing Mental Health Treatment: Ketamine Emerges as a Promising Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression

Written by Admin Strange DM on June 15, 2023. Posted in Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Mental Health, News, Research. No Comments on Revolutionizing Mental Health Treatment: Ketamine Emerges as a Promising Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression

New research study reveals the immense promise of ketamine as a groundbreaking treatment for common mental health conditions. In a captivating study, scientists compared the effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and intravenous ketamine in patients with treatment-resistant major depression. The results were astounding.

The study, a randomized noninferiority trial, recruited patients suffering from major depression without psychosis who had not responded to previous treatments. These patients were divided into two groups: one receiving ECT and the other receiving ketamine. Over a three-week period, the ECT group underwent therapy three times per week, while the ketamine group received infusions twice per week.

The primary outcome measure was a significant reduction in depressive symptoms, defined as a decrease of at least 50% in the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology–Self-Report score. The study also assessed memory test scores and patient-reported quality of life as secondary outcomes. Patients who responded positively to treatment were monitored over a six-month period.

The findings were remarkable. Out of the 403 patients randomized across five clinical sites, 55.4% in the ketamine group and 41.2% in the ECT group achieved a response to treatment. This marked a significant difference of 14.2 percentage points, indicating that ketamine was non-inferior to ECT in treating treatment-resistant major depression without psychosis.

Additionally, the study uncovered some fascinating insights. ECT was associated with a decline in memory recall during the initial treatment phase, but patients experienced gradual recovery over time. On the other hand, patient-reported improvements in quality of life were similar in both groups. Adverse effects were observed, with musculoskeletal issues associated with ECT and dissociation linked to ketamine.

These findings shed new light on the potential of ketamine as a common mental health treatment, offering hope to those who have struggled with treatment-resistant depression. With its noninferiority to ECT and fewer associated side effects, ketamine presents a promising avenue for patients seeking effective relief from their symptoms. This groundbreaking research paves the way for a future where ketamine can become a mainstream and transformative treatment for mental health conditions.

Link to the full study.

If you or a loved one is struggling with treatment-resistant depression, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is now a proven and effective alternative to conventional treatments. Call us today to see if you are a good candidate for ketamine-assisted therapy in Los Angeles.

Toad Venom: A Promising, Time-Efficient Alternative to Psilocybin for Depression Treatment

Written by Admin Strange DM on May 3, 2023. Posted in Depression, DMT, Mental Health, News, Psilocybin. No Comments on Toad Venom: A Promising, Time-Efficient Alternative to Psilocybin for Depression Treatment

Research into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics is gaining momentum as scientists seek to understand the mechanisms behind their effects on the treatment of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety and PTSD. Psychedelics may provide lasting symptom relief through neurological changes, which can lead to transformative insights and new perspectives on one’s self and the universe.

Johns Hopkins researchers are exploring the potential of 5-MeO-DMT, a psychoactive substance found in some toad venom, as a more time-efficient alternative to psilocybin for treating depression and anxiety. While psilocybin therapy has shown promise, its lengthy 4-6 hour sessions may make it difficult for health insurance companies to cover treatment costs if the FDA indicates this substance safe for therapeutic use.

DMT, which has a much shorter duration of action, could offer similar therapeutic benefits in less time. Preliminary studies indicate that it may help combat depression and anxiety effectively, with users experiencing a powerful, mystical experience that alters their perspective on life. Further research is needed to build a case for clinical studies and to better understand how these substances provide relief for individuals suffering from mental health issues.

Despite challenges in obtaining funding for studying these substances not yet FDA indicated for therapeutic use, dedicated researchers like Davis are committed to exploring all avenues to provide better treatment and outcomes for individuals suffering from debilitating mental health issues.

Link to original article by Brennen Jensen.

For more information on ketamine assisted psychotherapy in Los Angeles, contact the Psychedelica Collective by calling (888) 850-0028 or filling out the form here.

woman looking in a broken mirror that could be suffering from symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder

Psilocybin Shows Promise in Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder, but Not Social Anxiety

Written by Admin Strange DM on April 30, 2023. Posted in News, Psilocybin, Research. No Comments on Psilocybin Shows Promise in Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder, but Not Social Anxiety

A recent study presented at the 2023 Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) Conference reported that psilocybin, a psychedelic substance found in some species of mushrooms, may improve symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), but not social anxiety. BDD is a mental health condition where a person obsesses over perceived flaws in their appearance, often leading to social anxiety.

The study recruited 12 patients who received a single dose of psilocybin paired with psychological support. The researchers measured the patients’ experiences and symptoms over a 12-week period using various questionnaires and scales. Results showed that while BDD symptoms improved significantly during the treatment period, social anxiety symptoms did not.

The study also found that patients who had fewer negative aspects of the psychedelic experience and higher positive aspects showed greater improvement in BDD symptoms. However, the effects seemed to diminish over time.

Link to original article by Abdullah Hashmi, MD

As the field of psychedelic therapy continues to expand, researchers are increasingly exploring the potential of substances like psilocybin to treat various mental health conditions. Early studies like this open the door for further investigations into how psilocybin and other psychedelics may be utilized in personalized treatment plans. In the future, a better understanding of the mechanisms behind the effects of these substances could lead to more targeted and effective therapies, ultimately transforming the way we approach mental health treatment.

While psilocybin is currently not FDA approved for therapeutic use, other psychedelics like ketamine are available to those looking to seek relief from persistent symptoms of depression, anxiety, or PTSD. For those seeking ketamine for mental health, it is highly recommended to find clinics that offer in person preparation, supervised sessions, and integration session to get the full benefit. Furthermore, new telehealth laws may prohibit the prescription of these drugs in virtual care settings in the near future.

For more information about ketamine assisted therapy and if you might be a good fit for treatment, contact the Psychedelica Collective in Los Angeles today.

Exploring the challenges faced by psychedelic telehealth companies, this article emphasizes the importance of professionally guided psychedelic-assisted therapy to ensure safe and effective mental health treatment.

The Need for Professional Psychedelic Therapy: Prioritizing People Over Profit

Written by Admin Strange DM on April 20, 2023. Posted in News, Psychedelic Assisted Therapy. No Comments on The Need for Professional Psychedelic Therapy: Prioritizing People Over Profit

Recent news of financial struggles and layoffs within psychedelic telehealth companies like Field Trip and Mindbloom highlights the importance of professionally monitored psychedelic-assisted therapy. These companies, which aimed to capitalize on the growing psychedelic industry, have been criticized for their marketing tactics and for providing at-home ketamine therapy services without proper supervision. As the federal Emergency Declaration comes to an end and the Ryan Haight Act of 2008 is set to be enforced again, telehealth companies may no longer be able to prescribe controlled substances like ketamine without in-person consultations.

Professionally guided psychedelic therapy is crucial for helping clients navigate through difficult psychological and emotional experiences, and for integrating these experiences into their lives. The failures of these telehealth companies illustrate the need to prioritize people over profit and promote the human model of healing, rather than replicating the pharmaceutical model.

Original article written by Soul Surgeon can be found here.

For more information on ketamine assisted psychotherapy in Los Angeles, contact the Psychedelica Collective by calling (888) 850-0028 or filling out the form here.

animals like dolphins have show evidence of psychedelic use in nature

Psychedelic Encounters: Mind-Altering Adventures of the Animal Kingdom

Written by Admin Strange DM on April 10, 2023. Posted in News. No Comments on Psychedelic Encounters: Mind-Altering Adventures of the Animal Kingdom

Original author: Jefferson Matthew VanBilliard – Double Blind Magazine

Nature is full of psychedelic encounters that extend beyond human experience. Animals have discovered ways to tap into the realm of mind-altering substances, allowing them to explore alternate states of consciousness just as we do.

Wallabies in Australia have been known to consume opium poppies, resulting in them exhibiting erratic behavior and creating crop circles as they hop around in disoriented stupor. The opium poppies are grown legally for medicinal purposes, but the wallabies manage to find their way into the fields and indulge in the psychotropic plants.

Lemurs and capuchin monkeys in Madagascar and South America have been observed engaging in a peculiar behavior called “anting.” They rub ants, millipedes, or other insects on their fur, which release defensive secretions containing chemicals like formic acid. It’s believed that these chemicals not only help ward off parasites but also provide the animals with a mild intoxicating sensation, causing them to display an almost trance-like state.

Birds, too, have found their way to intoxication. Cedar waxwings and robins are known to consume overripe berries that have fermented, resulting in the production of alcohol. These birds can become quite inebriated, leading to disoriented flying and sometimes even fatal accidents.

Spiders, on the other hand, have been exposed to various mind-altering substances by researchers in controlled experiments. Scientists have observed that when spiders are given small doses of psychoactive substances like LSD, caffeine, or marijuana, their web-building abilities are significantly impacted, resulting in erratic and less structured webs.

These instances reveal that the animal kingdom has its fair share of psychedelic exploration, with creatures finding ways to indulge in mind-altering substances available in nature. While their motives may differ from those of humans, the fact remains that the pursuit of altered states is not exclusive to our species. This captivating aspect of nature reminds us of the interconnectedness of life and the myriad ways in which animals seek to enhance their experiences. Follow this link to the full article.

fmri brain scans of veterans taking psychedelics for mental health

“Falling for Psychedelics”

Written by psychedelicaco on March 8, 2023. Posted in News. No Comments on “Falling for Psychedelics”

Original Author: Tracie White – Stanford Magazine

Link to full article.

A groundbreaking new era has dawned in the world of psychedelic research, capturing the imagination of scientists and the public alike. Substances like psilocybin, LSD, MDMA, and ketamine are stealing the spotlight as potential miracle treatments for mental health disorders such as PTSD, depression, addiction, and anxiety. The intrigue surrounding these mysterious, fast-acting drugs is fueled by their potential to offer life-changing relief in a fraction of the time traditional psychiatric medications take to work.

However, beneath the allure lies a concern about the addictive properties of some of these substances, as well as the risk of harrowing experiences like “bad trips.” Researchers at Stanford University are racing against time to unravel the secrets behind these drugs and develop evidence-based guidelines for their responsible use. The fear that the public and governments might rush ahead of scientific research and federal regulations looms large, potentially stalling the remarkable progress being made in the field.

The FDA has taken notice of the promising early trials and granted MDMA and psilocybin “breakthrough therapy” status, accelerating their development as treatments. Researchers are urging the public to hold their breath and give science the time it needs to reveal the true potential of psychedelic therapy before diving headlong into the unknown.

“Group Ketamine Therapy: Practice and Promise” A Review

Written by psychedelicaco on January 31, 2023. Posted in News. No Comments on “Group Ketamine Therapy: Practice and Promise” A Review

Link to Full article

The article “Group Ketamine Therapy: Practice and Promise” focuses on the therapeutic use of ketamine for mental health conditions, particularly depression and anxiety. It provides an overview of the current state of group ketamine therapy and the potential benefits it offers.

The article explains that ketamine is a fast-acting, highly effective medication for treating depression and anxiety, and has been shown to produce rapid and sustained improvement in symptoms. However, access to ketamine treatment has been limited due to a lack of trained professionals and the cost of individual therapy sessions.

Group ketamine therapy offers a solution to this issue, providing increased access to care and a supportive environment for patients. The therapy involves administering ketamine to a group of patients in a supervised setting, allowing them to experience the benefits of the medication together. The article notes that group therapy can provide a sense of community and support, helping patients to feel less isolated and alone in their struggles with mental health issues.

The article also acknowledges the need for further research and regulation in the field of ketamine therapy. The long-term effects of ketamine are not yet fully understood, and more research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of the medication. Additionally, the article calls for greater regulation of the use of ketamine in therapy, including the development of guidelines for safe administration and the training of professionals to provide the therapy.

In conclusion, the article “Group Ketamine Therapy: Practice and Promise” highlights the potential benefits of group ketamine therapy for depression and anxiety, while also recognizing the need for further research and regulation in the field. It offers an informative overview of the current state of ketamine therapy and the potential for increased access to care for those struggling with mental health issues.

Are you struggling with the challenges of maintaining your mental health? Join our Group Ketamine Therapy sessions in Los Angeles at the Psychedelica Collective, designed to support individuals on their path to emotional well-being. Connect with others facing similar struggles, and let the transformative power of ketamine therapy guide you towards personal growth, improved mental health, and renewed resilience.

Don’t let mental health challenges hold you back. Experience the unique combination of group support and ketamine-assisted therapy to embark on a more balanced and fulfilling life journey. Call us today.

Psychedelic Therapies Are on the Horizon, but Who Will Administer the Drugs?

Written by psychedelicaco on January 28, 2023. Posted in News. No Comments on Psychedelic Therapies Are on the Horizon, but Who Will Administer the Drugs?

Link to Full Article

“Psychedelics are gaining momentum as potential therapies for certain mental health conditions and may soon be prescribed by doctors in some states. As clinical trials on psychedelics continue, and as legalization efforts gain win after win, schools are ramping up efforts to train the therapists and practitioners who will administer them…”