Psychable Explains the Neuroscience of Psychedelics

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Western medical experts are further exploring the idea of psychedelics as medicine and are coming to the same understanding that generations of Indigenous healers across the globe have long embodied – that psychedelic substances can offer long-lasting, fast-acting, and transformative healing for those suffering with mental health ailments. As decriminalization efforts and clinical trials are underway in regards to supervised distribution of substances such as psilocybin, LSD , and MDMA to support those struggling with mental health, the online community Psychable is a trusted resource to learn more about the phenomenon, as well as connect those seeking treatment with legal clinical trials to consider in the US.

Together with institutions such as Indiana University Bloomington, which is offering a class on the neuroscience of psychedelics, Psychable is using science to beat the stigma. Read on to learn about the neuroscience of psychedelics.

Classical Psychedelics

Different psychedelics affect the brain differently. Classic psychedelics, such as psilocybin (the psychoactive ingredient in magic mushrooms), LSD , mescaline (the psychoactive ingredient in the peyote and San Pedro cactus), and DMT (the psychoactive ingredient in ayahuasca), affect the body’s serotonin system. This produces changes in mood and perception. Classic psychedelics are sometimes called serotonergic psychedelics.

Serotonergic psychedelics mimic the action of serotonin closely and work primarily by binding to serotonin 2A receptors.

Other Psychedelics

Other substances, which work differently, but still offer therapeutic benefits, are also considered psychedelics. Ketamine, MDMA , and ayahuasca also produce feelings of euphoria and changes in perception, but their method of action is different from classic psychedelics.

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic with psychedelic properties. Rather than affect one or more of the monoamine neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine), ketamine activates a neurotransmitter called glutamate. Although many experts say it is safe to use classical psychedelics while taking a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), or other antidepressants that affect serotonin levels, ketamine is the most unlikely to cause interactions because it works through glutamate. This makes it an excellent choice as a depression treatment for those still taking traditional antidepressants.

MDMA is a serotonergic amphetamine. Its primary mechanism of action is releasing serotonin into the synapse, although it can also bind serotonin 2A receptors. MDMA also releases norepinephrine and dopamine and has neurohormonal effects. These include the release of the neuropeptide and social bonding chemical oxytocin, which is why it can be a valuable tool in couple’s counseling. It also helps people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) safely access and process traumatic memories.

Ayahuasca, an Amazonian brew usually made up of two plants, contains N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs). DMT is the psychedelic ingredient and works by stimulating serotonin 2A receptors. While the MAO Is present is therapeutic and allows for oral ingestion, these do make it ill-advised to take with SSRI antidepressants.

Conclusion

While various psychedelics work differently on the brain, they all have therapeutic potential. Neurological research suggests that the psychedelic experience increases the amount of disorganized activity across the brain while reducing the activity of interconnected brain regions, referred to as the default mode network (DMN). Psychedelics increase neuroplasticity and can form new neural connections. This can allow for rebuilding, which can help patients work through depression, PTSD , substance use disorders, and limiting behavior patterns.

Before taking psychedelics, one should always consult with a medical professional about medications and medical history to ensure that they access the safest experience with the highest healing potential. To find a practitioner in your area, visit Psychable today.