Lysergic acid diethylamide

Paul Stamets advocates for the respectful use of psilocybin mushrooms, emphasizing their therapeutic potential for conditions like treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and cluster headaches. Clinical trials have shown psilocybin's effectiveness, leading to FDA recognition as a breakthrough medicine. Psychedelics enhance brain connectivity and neuroplasticity, potentially offering long-term benefits. However, microdosing's efficacy remains scientifically unproven, and psychedelic use carries risks, including potential for psychosis in vulnerable individuals. Researchers aim to develop non-psychedelic alternatives to harness these benefits.

The article discusses psilocybin's therapeutic potential, state laws on its use, and employer responses to employee microdosing. It highlights federal illegality under the Controlled Substances Act, contrasting with state-level decriminalization efforts. Employers are advised to clarify drug use policies, offer employee assistance programs, and ensure safety in safety-sensitive roles.

U.S. roadside drug testing market size was USD 1.45 billion in 2023, expected to reach USD 2.28 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.65%. Alcohol segment dominated with 31.96% share in 2023, while cannabis/marijuana segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR of 5.50%. Breath segment led with 44.44% share in 2023, and highway police segment dominated with 90.87% share. Market growth attributed to rising drug use, legalization of marijuana, and increasing awareness of drug-impaired driving. California led with 14.58% revenue share in 2023, driven by large population and progressive drug regulations.

MindBio Therapeutics reports MB22001, a microdosing formulation of LSD, has achieved 12-month shelf stability at room temperature, crucial for regulatory compliance and patient ease of use. MB22001, currently in Phase 2B trials, has shown significant antidepressant effects and a favorable safety profile, with sustained responses up to 3 months post-treatment.

A study at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research used psychedelic drug DOI to identify a neuron activating the ventral hippocampus, potentially reducing anxiety without hallucinations, paving the way for targeted treatments for anxiety disorders and treatment-resistant conditions like PTSD and depression.

Companies like Mindstate Design Labs and Beckley Psytech are developing 'next generation' psychedelics to reduce risks and improve efficacy, aiming to make treatments more palatable to regulators and patients.

A study from Spain’s Universidad de las Palmas de Gran Canaria found that a low dose of LSD is a safe and effective treatment for dog anxiety, with no adverse side effects.