Psychadelics

Question 1

What are psychedelics?

Answer 1

Psychedelics are hallucinogenic class of (illicit) psychoactive drug whose primary effect is to trigger non-ordinary states of consciousness (psychedelic experiences/trips)

Includes various substances that alter perception, mood, and cognitive processes.

Question 2

Name two examples of psychedelics.

Answer 2

• Psilocybin
• LSD
• DMT (Ayahuasca)
• Ibogaine (Iboga)

These substances are known for their psychoactive effects.

Question 3

What is the primary mechanism of action of psychedelics?

Answer 3

Psychedelics act as serotonin receptor agonists (5HT-2A) causing:
* Increased neuroplasticity
* Decreased activity in Default Mode Network
* Increased cortical activity

This mechanism is responsible for the altered states of consciousness associated with psychedelics.

Question 4

List three positive effects of psychedelics.

Answer 4

• Somatic experiences
• Spiritual/Mystical experiences
• Ego dissolution

These effects can vary widely among individuals.

Question 5

What are two negative effects of psychedelics?

Answer 5

• Fear and terror
• Social isolation

Negative effects can lead to distressing experiences during or after the psychedelic trip.

Question 6

Fill in the blank: Psychedelics boost _______ and adaptability.

Answer 6

[neuroplasticity]

This is thought to be a reason why psychedelics may help with mental disorders.

Question 7

What common mental disorders are suggested to have a related cause according to the hypothesis on psychedelics?

Answer 7

• OCD
• Addiction
• Depression
• End of life distress

These disorders may share learned patterns of thought and behavior as a common cause.

Question 8

What is the ‘Pivotal Mental State’ in the context of psychedelics?

Answer 8

A state activated by psychedelics that enhances neuroplasticity and adaptability

This state is hypothesized to be beneficial in treating mental disorders.

Question 9

List two patient side clinical problems with psychedelics.

Answer 9

• Weighting of risk factors
• Impact of co-morbidity

These factors can complicate the use of psychedelics in treatment.

Question 10

What are two practitioner side clinical problems with psychedelics?

Answer 10

• Who should provide treatment
• How to train practitioners

These issues are critical for the safe and effective use of psychedelics in therapy.

Question 11

What is psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy?

Answer 11

A therapeutic approach that incorporates psychedelics as part of the treatment process for mental illness

This method aims to enhance the therapeutic experience and outcomes.

Question 12

True or False: Chronic stress does not affect the 5HT-2A receptor.

Answer 12

False

Chronic stress primes the 5HT-2A receptor, influencing how psychedelics may work.

Question 13

What factors should be considered regarding the medication side of psychedelics?

Answer 13

• Which psychedelic is better for which disorder
• Dosage
• Frequency
• Route
• Cost

These factors are crucial for effective treatment planning.