Lysergic acid diethylamide

MindMed begins Phase III LSD trial for anxiety disorder without psychotherapy; researchers identify new psychedelic mushroom species, Psilocybe ochraceocentrata; Denver recommends indoor psilocybin sessions; study shows psilocybin increases empathy in depressed individuals without improving depression; Naropa University spins out psychedelic training program.

MindMed dosed the first patient in a phase 3 trial of LSD for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The 52-week study will enroll 200 participants, with a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled period for the first 12 weeks, followed by an open-label extension. MM120, a synthetic ergotamine, incorporates fast-dissolve technology and has received FDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation for GAD. If approved, it would be the first GAD treatment since 1987.

MindMed initiates Phase 3 Voyage study of MM120 ODT (LSD) for GAD, with primary endpoint measuring HAM-A score change at week 12. The study builds on positive Phase 2b results and anticipates topline data in H1 2026. A second Phase 3 trial, Panorama, is set to begin in H1 2025.

MindMed (NASDAQ:MNMD), a $525M clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, focuses on MM120, a LSD-based compound for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). MM120 showed significant Phase 2b trial benefits, with rapid onset and sustained effects. The FDA's Breakthrough Therapy Designation for MM120 could accelerate its development. Analysts project potential U.S. sales of $1.6B, with MM120 addressing a large, underserved GAD market. However, challenges include patient adoption, regulatory hurdles, and commercialization of psychedelic therapies.

Seven people connected to a private social media drug network serving Rutgers University students were arrested in New Jersey. The operation, 'Operation RU Pharm,' led by the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office Narcotics Task Force, recovered drugs, cash, and a firearm. The network, operated by a former Rutgers student, allowed students to browse drug menus and negotiate purchases.

Recent studies show psilocybin can treat severe depression and PTSD by promoting neuroplasticity. Peter Silverstone, a psychopharmacology expert, highlights psychedelics' potential as a mental health breakthrough. Despite risks, supervised use shows promise, with Alberta leading in psychedelic therapy regulation and insurance coverage. Caution is advised due to potential risks and hype.

The global drug of abuse testing market, valued at $6.97B in 2023, is projected to reach $11.71B by 2032. Factors driving growth include strict laws, rising drug consumption, and government initiatives. Recent developments include acquisitions and new product launches. Fingerprint-based testing is a new opportunity, while drug legalization and lack of skilled technicians pose challenges. North America leads the market, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific.

Kalesi Volatabu, Founder of Drug Free World Fiji, warns that Fiji’s drug crisis has escalated with users openly sharing illicit substances. The crisis extends beyond traditional drugs like crystal meth and heroin to include LSD, ecstasy, and ketamine. Volatabu emphasizes the urgent need for action and open dialogue to address the issue.

After years of delays, FDA approves Phase 2 of MAPS' study on smoked medical marijuana for PTSD in veterans, funded by Michigan's cannabis tax revenue.

References discuss psychedelics' therapeutic potential, abuse potential, and psychological effects, focusing on psilocybin's impact on depression, anxiety, and cancer-related distress, with studies exploring predictors of psychedelic response, integration challenges, and the role of set and setting in therapeutic outcomes.