Latest news with #PsychedelicScience
Fox News
15 hours ago
- Health
- Fox News
Single dose of 'magic mushrooms' provides 5 years of depression relief, researchers find
Print Close By Khloe Quill Published June 24, 2025 Psilocybin, the main psychoactive ingredient in magic mushrooms, could alleviate depression for at least five years after just one dose, according to a new study. The research, presented June 18 at the Psychedelic Science 2025 conference in Denver, followed up with patients who had been diagnosed with clinical depression — also known as major depressive disorder (MDD) — and had participated in a previous psilocybin treatment study in 2020. "Most people who participated in our trial reported improvements in depression symptom intensity or in the ways in which they experienced depression in their life, lasting up to five years after the trial," study co-author Alan Davis, director of the Center for Psychedelic Drug Research and Education at The Ohio State University, told Fox News Digital. PSYCHEDELICS AS POTENTIAL MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT ARE EXPLORED BY TRUMP ADMINISTRATION Doug Drysdale, CEO of the Canadian pharmaceutical company Cybin in Toronto, Ontario, told Fox News Digital that the outcome speaks to the "exciting" potential of psilocybin and other psychedelic-based treatments in treating MDD and other mental health conditions. "The results of the study are certainly very encouraging," said Drysdale, who was not involved in the study. Earlier studies pointed toward the possibility of psilocybin as a potential antidepressant, prompting researchers to conduct the first-ever randomized clinical trial. The initial 2020 trial, published in JAMA Psychiatry, included 24 patients with major depressive disorder. Half received psilocybin at the beginning of the trial, and the other half received the treatment eight weeks later. Each patient also underwent 11 hours of psychotherapy. WHAT IS KETAMINE THERAPY? MORMON REALITY STARS TOUT CONTROVERSIAL TREATMENT One month after treatment, 17 patients reported experiencing symptom relief. Fourteen of those reported full remission from depression, according to the published study. "The effectiveness of psilocybin therapy after a single or only a few administrations represents another substantial advantage over commonly used antidepressants that require daily administration," the researchers wrote. The new study aimed to explore the longer-term effects of this treatment on 21 of the original trial participants. Sixty-seven percent reported being in remission from depression five years after treatment, and they also had less anxiety and easier daily functioning. "The study doesn't account for naturalistic changes that could have affected their depression in the five years since the main trial." For those whose depression came back, many still reported lasting benefits in their attitudes, perspectives and ability to pursue things that were meaningful to them, Davis told Fox News Digital. "Certainly, more controlled and rigorous study is required, but at least anecdotally, these findings are very interesting, and I am cautiously optimistic about the potential for extended efficacy provided by these types of treatments," Drysdale added. Other factors may have also played a role in the participants' long-term mental health benefits, such as psychotherapy sessions or other antidepressants, experts agreed. "The study doesn't account for naturalistic changes that could have affected their depression in the five years since the main trial, and the sample is not representative of the population of people suffering with depression," Davis told Fox News Digital. PARKINSON'S PATIENTS WHO TAKE 'MAGIC MUSHROOMS' SEE KEY BENEFITS, STUDY FINDS Psilocybin has also been explored as a potential treatment for post-partum depression (PPD), which affects as many as one in seven new mothers. A 2022 study outlined the potential role of psychedelics in PPD cases, finding that psilocybin has been shown to catalyze a sense of "reconnection" in new mothers. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER "This effect in PPD, by fostering a sense of 'reconnection' for the mother, may allow for improved mood and maternal sensitivity toward the infant, which can positively impact maternal role gratification and the mother-infant relationship," the researchers stated. In February, Cleveland Clinic reported on an upcoming study that explores single-dosing psilocybin as a way to treat PPD. The trial, now in its second phase, focuses on RE104, a proprietary drug similar to psilocybin. Study participants will undergo multiple physical and mental health tests. Potential risks and limitations Ryan Moss, chief science officer at Filament Health, a clinical-stage natural psychedelic drug development company in Canada, has emphasized the importance of administering psychedelics in a safe setting when treating mental health conditions. For more Health articles, visit "Psychedelic experiences can sometimes feature anxiety, hallucinations and paranoia," Moss previously told Fox News Digital. Experts recommend that therapeutic use of psychedelics should be carefully managed by medical experts. "Some patients using traditional psychedelics have reported experiencing adverse cardiovascular events during clinical trials." To mitigate these risks, Moss recommended clinical trial participants receive thorough preparation and monitoring by trained professionals during sessions. Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and Fox News' senior medical analyst, previously interviewed two of the country's top researchers on psychedelics: Dr. Rachel Yehuda, founder and director of the Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research at Mt. Sinai in New York, and Dr. Charles Marmar, director of the PTSD research program at NYU Langone. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "They agree there is therapeutic potential if very carefully studied under very strict medical guidance, but there is a huge downside in terms of unregulated recreational uses," Siegel told Fox News Digital at the time. "Both doctors see likely therapeutic value to psychedelics if carefully managed by medical experts ," Siegel added. Melissa Rudy and Angelica Stabile, both of Fox News Digital, contributed reporting. Print Close URL
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Ketamine may work by 'flattening the brain's hierarchies,' brain scans suggest
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. DENVER—A single dose of ketamine may subtly reshape how different regions of the brain communicate, a new study suggests. The research, presented June 19 at the Psychedelic Science 2025 conference, is one of the first to investigate ketamine's impact on neuroplasticity — the ability to adapt to experiences by forming new connections and pathways — in the brains of living people. The findings have not been peer-reviewed yet. In recent years, clinical trials have demonstrated ketamine's effectiveness in treating depression within a few hours of a single dose. Animal studies suggest that ketamine almost immediately spurs the growth of new dendritic spines — tiny protrusions that form synapses, the connections between brain cells. But it's been hard to pin down how ketamine works in living humans. To answer that question, the researchers scanned the brains of 11 men using multiple techniques and then administered an intravenous dose of ketamine. One group of the people was re-scanned 24 hours after getting the single dose of the drug, and the other group was scanned again seven days later. Related: 1 psychedelic psilocybin dose eases depression for years, study reveals Normally, the brain processes sensory information via lower-level networks and then feeds that "up the chain" to higher-level networks that orchestrate larger brain processes. Higher level networks also send feedback to lower-order networks, but communication between high and low level networks is less than that within specific networks. In the new study, scientists used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), which measures blood flow to different brain regions, to reveal how brain activity changed after treatment. When fMRI activity levels appear synchronized, it can imply the distinct areas are "communicating" with one another. Typically, regions that are part of a network consistently fire together when the brain is performing specific tasks or is in a certain mental state. After the participants took ketamine, however, activity in specific networks seemed to be desynchronized. The researchers also found an increase in communication between a higher-order network, the default mode network (DMN), and lower-order, sensory networks, such as the somatomotor network, which is linked to the perception of the physical self and bodily sensations. This means that brain regions usually involved in basic sensory processing started communicating more directly and extensively with higher-level regions responsible for complex thought and "orchestrating" brain processes. "Usually there is more segregation between these higher order and lower order networks," Claudio Agnorelli, a neuroscientist at the Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College London, told Live Science. "But after the ketamine, this hierarchy is kind of collapsed." The DMN is responsible for "mental time travel," or planning and daydreaming, rather than staying focused on particular tasks in the present. An overactive DMN has been linked to depression and rumination. The researchers also used positron emission tomography (PET) scans to measure levels of a protein called SV2A, which plays a role in the release of brain signaling molecules. Higher SV2A levels are thought to indicate more connections between brain cells, Agnorelli said. Although the researchers didn't identify a clear trend in global SVA2 levels after ketamine administration, one brain region tied to the DMN did show clear changes: the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC). The PCC is part of the DMN, and it seems to orchestrate the flow of information in the brain. After ketamine administration, the PCC played a smaller role in orchestrating communication across the brain, even as synaptic connections increased within the PCC. RELATED STORIES —FDA approves ketamine-like nasal spray for depression — here's everything you need to know —'Hyper-synchronized' brain waves may explain why different psychedelics have similar effects, rat study reveals —How does ketamine work as an antidepressant? It's complicated. The finding of increased synaptic density in the DMN suggests ketamine isn't just creating new synapses — it's fundamentally reorganizing how brain networks communicate, Sam Mandel, CEO and co-founder of Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles, told Live Science in an email. "The 'flattening of cortical hierarchy' could explain why patients often report feeling less trapped in rigid thought patterns after treatment." The authors cautioned that their results are preliminary. The study had just 11 participants, all of whom were men with no underlying conditions, and there was no placebo group for comparison. Moreover, the imaging methods the team used are still being validated as reliable markers of brain changes. The study does, however, help bridge the gap between what is known about ketamine's impact on animals and how it may act in humans, Agnorelli said. "While we've long understood from animal studies that ketamine promotes neuroplasticity, actually visualizing these synaptic changes in living human brains using a PET tracer is a new development," Mandel said.
Associated Press
5 days ago
- Health
- Associated Press
Colorado's First Licensed Psilocybin Manufacturer, Psylutions, Showcases Breakthrough Therapies at Psychedelic Science
Explore Precision-Grown Psilocybin Solutions for Healing Centers at Booth #1106 'I'm here because I've experienced the healing effects of this medicine. Now we're delivering that same possibility through effective products that help people reclaim their lives.'— Rhonda DeSantis, founder of Psylutions DENVER, CO, UNITED STATES, June 19, 2025 / / -- Psylutions, Colorado's first licensed cultivator and manufacturer of psilocybin, is bringing its next-generation therapies to Psychedelic Science 2025, the leading global gathering for psychedelic research and innovation. Visit Booth #1106 to meet the Psylutions team and explore high-potency, lab-verified psilocybin cultivated for clinical healing, chronic pain, trauma relief, and daily mental wellness. Psylutions partners with healing centers and serves as a resource to help interested parties connect with the right licensed facilitators and healing centers throughout Colorado. 'I had a profound life-changing experience on low-dose psilocybin,' said Rhonda DeSantis, founder of Psylutions. 'I'm here because I've experienced the healing effects of this medicine. Now we're delivering that same possibility through precisely dosed, verified, effective products that support mental health and help people reclaim their lives.' Psylutions combines natural healing powers with scientific precision to provide licensed healing centers with regulated medicines. Under the mission of producing the purest and most potent strains available, Psylutions products are curated to support safe and effective mushroom products tailored to individuals' specific needs. Psylutions' mushroom-based products leverage the long-recognized therapeutic properties of psilocybin found to support mental health and chronic pain management, including: Support for Neurological Health: Compounds like psilocybin and psilocin have shown promise in supporting neurological health by interacting with serotonin in the brain. This potential to enhance neuroplasticity can be beneficial for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders that are potentially altered when the brain is able to adapt and reorganize itself. Chronic Pain Management: For those suffering with chronic pain, psilocybin has been found to affect pain perception and potentially reduce the intensity and frequency of episodes. These effects could be a valuable tool for individuals seeking to manage conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, and other chronic pain disorders. Mental Wellness: One of the most profound benefits of psychedelic mushrooms is the reported improvement in overall mental wellness experienced by many users. Individuals often report greater emotional clarity, reduced stress, and an enhanced sense of well-being. These effects are thought to be attributed to the mushroom's ability to promote the release of neurochemicals that could foster positive mood and emotional balance. 'We've built a facility that meets the highest possible standards,' DeSantis added. 'Triple HEPA filtration, mitigated contamination risk, and optimized growing environments. We're setting the bar for what regulated psychedelic medicine should look like.' For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Shawna Seldon McGregor at 917-971-7852 or [email protected]. Psylutions: Precise. Verified. Effective Psilocybin Solutions. Psylutions is Colorado's first state-licensed cultivator and manufacturer of psilocybin mushrooms, serving licensed healing centers, clinicians, and researchers with precision-grown, lab-verified psychedelic therapies. Psylutions combines scientific excellence with a deep commitment to healing. With a growing portfolio of high-potency strains, Psylutions is setting a new standard for safety, purity, and purpose in the regulated psychedelics industry. Learn more at Shawna Seldon McGregor Maverick Public Relations + +1 9179717852 email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Associated Press
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Sound, Spirit, and Celebration: Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Lead the Musical Heartbeat of Psychedelic Science 2025
• Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity Session at PS2025 Explores the Role of Sound in Emotional Integration, Brainwave Regulation, and Therapeutic Breakthroughs • Reggie Watts, Flying Lotus, Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Live Performances and Events Bring the Healing Power of Music to Life Beyond the Convention Center DENVER, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Psychedelic Science, the premier global gathering for psychedelic research, medicine, policy, and culture hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), has unveiled an inspiring lineup of musical visionaries headlining both the keynote stage and immersive live events at Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025) in Denver, Colorado. Keynote: Sound, Frequencies, and Emotional Alchemy Grammy-nominated artist and sound healing innovator Maejor (Brandon Green) and rapper and activist Vic Mensa will join forces in a powerful keynote session titled Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity. On Wednesday, June 18 (2:30–3:15 PM MDT) in the Bluebird Ballroom 1A – these artists will explore how sound becomes medicine and melody a tool for transformation. Maejor—known for mastering albums at 432 Hz—shares how scientifically tuned music fosters deep harmony and Vic Mensa will speak to how medicine journeys have influenced his music, activism, and sense of ancestral connection. 'Music is a universal language. It resonates deeply, brings people together, and creates space for healing and self-discovery. That is why we use it as a bridge, not just to inspire but to share resources, support community, and spark curiosity. This keynote features some of the most visionary artists of our time, showing how music can be a catalyst for healing and radical creativity. And beyond the stage, the energy continues throughout the week as Denver becomes a living soundscape, with performances by Flying Lotus, Reggie Watts, Vic Mensa, and more.' — Devon Phillips, Community & Partnerships Officer More Music, More Magic Across Denver But the magic doesn't stop at the Colorado Convention Center. Throughout the week, Denver transforms into a vibrant soundscape with unforgettable performances and immersive events: Visit to view the full schedule, register for workshops, and explore hotel and travel options. Workshop spaces are limited and available on a first-come basis. About Psychedelic Science Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025), hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), is the world's leading psychedelic conference. Returning to the Colorado Convention Center in Denver from June 16-20, 2025, this five-day event brings together a global community of scientists, therapists, policymakers, cultural leaders, and advocates to explore the forefront of psychedelic research, therapy, and culture. Facilitated by Superfly, known for producing iconic events such as Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, PS2025 will feature expert speakers; hands-on workshops; community events with art, music, and mindfulness activities; and scholarship opportunities to support broad participation. Since its inception in 2010, the Psychedelic Science conference series has fostered knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and community-building within the psychedelic ecosystem. Join thousands of attendees as we explore the transformative potential of psychedelics and shape the future of mental health, policy, and cultural understanding. For more information and registration details, visit and follow us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. ABOUT MAPS Founded in 1986, MAPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. MAPS' conference flagship, Psychedelic Science, has been the leading convening of the psychedelic community since 2010. MAPS incubated Lykos Therapeutics, a drug-development public benefit company, and the Zendo Project, a leader in psychedelic harm reduction. Since MAPS was founded, philanthropic donors and grantors have given more than $150 million to advance research, change drug policy, and evolve education in the field of psychedelics. CONTACT [email protected]
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Sound, Spirit, and Celebration: Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Lead the Musical Heartbeat of Psychedelic Science 2025
• Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity Session at PS2025 Explores the Role of Sound in Emotional Integration, Brainwave Regulation, and Therapeutic Breakthroughs • Reggie Watts, Flying Lotus, Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Live Performances and Events Bring the Healing Power of Music to Life Beyond the Convention Center DENVER, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Psychedelic Science, the premier global gathering for psychedelic research, medicine, policy, and culture hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), has unveiled an inspiring lineup of musical visionaries headlining both the keynote stage and immersive live events at Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025) in Denver, Colorado. Keynote: Sound, Frequencies, and Emotional AlchemyGrammy-nominated artist and sound healing innovator Maejor (Brandon Green) and rapper and activist Vic Mensa will join forces in a powerful keynote session titled Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity. On Wednesday, June 18 (2:30–3:15 PM MDT) in the Bluebird Ballroom 1A – these artists will explore how sound becomes medicine and melody a tool for transformation. Maejor—known for mastering albums at 432 Hz—shares how scientifically tuned music fosters deep harmony and Vic Mensa will speak to how medicine journeys have influenced his music, activism, and sense of ancestral connection. 'Music is a universal language. It resonates deeply, brings people together, and creates space for healing and self-discovery. That is why we use it as a bridge, not just to inspire but to share resources, support community, and spark curiosity. This keynote features some of the most visionary artists of our time, showing how music can be a catalyst for healing and radical creativity. And beyond the stage, the energy continues throughout the week as Denver becomes a living soundscape, with performances by Flying Lotus, Reggie Watts, Vic Mensa, and more.'—Devon Phillips, Community & Partnerships Officer More Music, More Magic Across DenverBut the magic doesn't stop at the Colorado Convention Center. Throughout the week, Denver transforms into a vibrant soundscape with unforgettable performances and immersive events: MAPS Psychedelic Science Kickoff Party with Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts Live, and Jim James and Vic Mensa DJ Sets: My Morning Jacket's Jim James and Vic Mensa will both host special DJ sets, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening ahead of Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts Live at the Mission Ballroom on Tuesday, June 17. Presented by Good Trip Studios, producers of Have a Good Trip on Netflix, this kickoff promises an electrifying fusion of music, art, and community. Tandava with Poranguí & Savej: Join Tandava Retreats on Tuesday, June 17, at Cervantes for a night of tribal rhythms, global healing sounds, and comedy by Dennis Walker (the Mycopreneur). Good Trip Presents: Conversation + Listening Party with Vic Mensa (Wednesday, June 18 at The PORTAL Dome): An intimate, 360° experience with music, film, and deep conversation. Join rapper and activist Vic Mensa for a Q&A and listening session, blending beats and dialogue in the immersive PORTAL Dome. Moderated by Donick Cary (Have a Good Trip, The Simpsons). Blind Melon with Ridgeliners Live at Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom (Thursday, June 19): Experience an unforgettable night of alternative rock as Blind Melon brings their neo-psychedelic sound to Denver's Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom on Thursday, June 19. Known for their 1993 hit "No Rain," Blind Melon continues to captivate audiences with their unique blend of rock and soulful melodies. Good Trip Presents: Conversation, Q&A, and Listening Party of My Morning Jacket's New Album 'Is' with Jim James (Friday, June 20 at The PORTAL Dome) invites you to an intimate, 360° experience that blends music, film, and deep conversation. Join My Morning Jacket frontman Jim James for a Q&A and exclusive listening session for the band's new album, 'is' in the immersive PORTAL Dome. Moderated by Donick Cary (Have a Good Trip, The Simpsons). LSZEE: LSDREAM & CloZee Live at Mission Ballroom (June 19–22): A bass-fueled collaboration that fuses psychedelic rhythms and global beats for an auditory adventure. Ecstatic Dance Denver (Sunday Morning Dance Party – Sober, Safe, and Sacred): No booze. No cell phones. No small talk. Just pure movement with Denver's top EDM DJs. Other highlights include immersive series like Shroomski Melt, Queer Magic 2, and more community gatherings. Visit to view the full schedule, register for workshops, and explore hotel and travel options. Workshop spaces are limited and available on a first-come Psychedelic SciencePsychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025), hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), is the world's leading psychedelic conference. Returning to the Colorado Convention Center in Denver from June 16-20, 2025, this five-day event brings together a global community of scientists, therapists, policymakers, cultural leaders, and advocates to explore the forefront of psychedelic research, therapy, and culture. Facilitated by Superfly, known for producing iconic events such as Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, PS2025 will feature expert speakers; hands-on workshops; community events with art, music, and mindfulness activities; and scholarship opportunities to support broad participation. Since its inception in 2010, the Psychedelic Science conference series has fostered knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and community-building within the psychedelic ecosystem. Join thousands of attendees as we explore the transformative potential of psychedelics and shape the future of mental health, policy, and cultural understanding. For more information and registration details, visit and follow us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. ABOUT MAPSFounded in 1986, MAPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. MAPS' conference flagship, Psychedelic Science, has been the leading convening of the psychedelic community since 2010. MAPS incubated Lykos Therapeutics, a drug-development public benefit company, and the Zendo Project, a leader in psychedelic harm reduction. Since MAPS was founded, philanthropic donors and grantors have given more than $150 million to advance research, change drug policy, and evolve education in the field of psychedelics. CONTACTmedia@
