This meta-analysis investigates the effect of classic psychedelic drugs on empathy and focuses on cognitive and emotional empathy measured using the Multifaceted Empathy Test (MET). Empathy entails the ability to understand and share the feelings of another and is a significant component of social interaction. Several studies have examined the effects of psychedelic drugs such as LSD, psilocybin and ayahuasca on empathy, yet their overall effect has not been studied so far. In this meta-analysis, we reviewed data from studies up to November 2023 with the aim of examining the effects of various psychedelic drugs on empathic abilities broadly. Our findings suggest that classical psychedelics significantly enhance explicit and implicit emotional empathy without affecting measures of cognitive empathy. The results emphasize the need to continue testing the therapeutic potential of classic psychedelic drugs.
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http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-74810-w | DOI Listing |
J Sep Sci
January 2025
Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto-SP, Brazil.
Cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main components of Cannabis sativa plants, can interact with specific cell receptors known as cannabinoid receptors (CBs). The endogenous compounds anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) are CB agonists, and, alongside enzymes, they constitute the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and take part in neuromodulation. Several LC-MS/MS methods have been developed to quantify these compounds in biological matrixes, but a fast and simple method that can determine these analytes in plasma samples simultaneously is not available.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFChild Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health
January 2025
School of Biomedicine (Pharmacology), The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
Background: Substance use among adolescents is strongly associated with adverse physical, mental health, and social outcomes. Prevention and early intervention can reduce the likelihood of future problems, but requires valid and reliable screening tools capable of assessing risk across a range of substances. This study assessed the validity, reliability, and clinical utility of the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST-Y) for adolescents aged 15-17 years.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFClin Neuropharmacol
January 2025
Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA.
Objectives: This study reviews literature on the psychiatric effects of delta-8-THC, particularly psychosis and severe mental health outcomes, to highlight the need for further research and regulation.
Background: Marijuana, the most widely used illicit drug in the United States, sees increasing use due to legalization. Although moderate use is generally safe, adverse effects can occur, especially in those with preexisting conditions.
Research on psychedelic medicines is experiencing a revival. Some clinicians, scientists, and ethicists believe that psychedelics are so different from other treatments that they warrant special consideration in how they are researched, regulated, commercialized, and administered. Others argue that psychedelic medicines show clinical potential, but they should be treated like other medical interventions.
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