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Related Concept Videos

Hallucinogens and Psychedelics01:27

Hallucinogens and Psychedelics

763
Hallucinogens are psychoactive substances that profoundly alter perceptual experiences, generating unreal visual and sensory images. Often referred to as psychedelic drugs — a term derived from the Greek words "psyche" (mind) and "delos" (revealing) — these substances include marijuana and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), among others. These drugs vary in intensity and effects.
Marijuana, derived from the dried leaves and flowers of the hemp plant, contains...
763
CNS Stimulants: Psychedelic Agents01:22

CNS Stimulants: Psychedelic Agents

854
Hallucinogens, also known as psychedelic drugs, are a class of substances known for their ability to alter perception, cognition, and emotions. Despite their profound effects on the mind, these drugs are non-addictive, setting them apart from many other abused substances. The mechanism of action of these drugs lies in their impact on the 5-HT2A receptor in the brain. Upon activation, this receptor couples to Gq-type G proteins, triggering a cascade that releases intracellular calcium. This...
854

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Feb 15, 2026

Predicting the Effectiveness of Population Replacement Strategy Using Mathematical Modeling
20:36

Predicting the Effectiveness of Population Replacement Strategy Using Mathematical Modeling

Published on: July 4, 2007

9.2K

Taking Psychedelics Seriously.

Ira Byock1,2

  • 11 Institute for Human Caring, Providence St. Joseph Health, Torrance, California.

Journal of Palliative Medicine
|January 23, 2018
PubMed
Summary

Psychedelic medications show promise for treating depression and existential suffering in terminally ill patients. Revisiting their therapeutic use is timely given growing acceptance and evidence of safety and efficacy.

Keywords:
MDMAdepressionexistential sufferingpalliative care patientspharmaco-assisted therapypost-traumatic stress disorderpsilocybinpsychedelic drugstherapeutic use

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Feb 15, 2026

Predicting the Effectiveness of Population Replacement Strategy Using Mathematical Modeling
20:36

Predicting the Effectiveness of Population Replacement Strategy Using Mathematical Modeling

Published on: July 4, 2007

9.2K

Area of Science:

  • Psychiatry and Psychopharmacology
  • Palliative Care
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Historical psychiatric research (1950s-60s) indicated psychedelics could alleviate suffering in terminal illness.
  • Recent studies confirm the safety and efficacy of psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine in medically supervised settings.
  • These substances offer substantial, sustained relief for treatment-resistant depression and anxiety, even in patients with serious medical conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To overview the history and therapeutic potential of psychedelic medications.
  • To discuss clinical considerations, cautions, and safe administration practices for psychedelics.
  • To advocate for the reconsideration of legitimate psychedelic therapeutic use.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of historical and recent studies on psychedelic medications.
  • Analysis of clinical considerations for patient screening, preparation, setting, and supervision.
  • Examination of regulatory and political challenges to psychedelic use.

Main Results:

  • Psychedelics demonstrate significant efficacy in alleviating depression and existential suffering.
  • Medically supervised administration is safe and effective for various patient populations.
  • Persistent suffering in terminally ill patients often stems from non-physical causes.

Conclusions:

  • Despite growing evidence, political and regulatory hurdles impede psychedelic use.
  • Existing programs like expanded access and right-to-try laws offer precedents for access.
  • Revisiting the therapeutic use of psychedelics is warranted due to prevalent suffering and evolving end-of-life care discussions.