The Drug Science Podcast

On the 100th Episode of the Drug Science podcast, Prof David Nutt meets with Dr James Rucker to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Maudsley Hospital. James shares his experiences as one of the first clinicians in a psychedelic study hosted by David Nutt before explaining his own personal journey into psychedelic research. Starting from a PhD in Genetics, James’ interest shifted, becoming increasingly interested in psychiatry and discusses his research into psilocybin regarding both its optimum dosage as well as its effectiveness in treatment resistant depression. DepressionMaudsley HospitalMaudsley Hospital Psychedelic ResearchNIHRCompass pathwaysPsilocybinMagic medicine documentaryMdma Dmt KetamineMAPSSupport the Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we meet with Jane Slater, co-founder of Anyone’s Child and Anne Marie, a mother who tragically lost her child, Martha, to an accidental overdose. Anne and Jane discuss the consequences of drug policy failures and the need for safe drug use education, drawing in on Anne’s personal journey. She discusses the pain of losing a loved one to a preventable drug related death and how this pain led to the start of Anyone's Child - creating a voice for those who have been directly impacted by drug policy failures and are now calling for the legal control and regulation of the drug market.Anyone's childTransform drugsAnyone's Child Get involvedRelease Harm Reduction AdviceDrug informationEcstasyHeroinOverdose prevention centresThe loopHow to regulate psychedelics bookGood Morning Britain Dealing with griefUNGAS 2016 ★ Support this podcast ★

In this week's episode, we feature John Marks, an Addiction Psychologist who spearheaded the Merseyside experiment in northwest England from 1982 to 1995. Throughout this 13-year period, Marks fearlessly operated clinics in Liverpool, basing his practice on the long-term maintenance prescribing of opiates to opiate users.The high media profile of his work, set against the backdrop of febrile local politics in Liverpool, brought immense political pressure. This pressure eventually led to the closure of the clinics.Tune in to this episode as John Marks shares his first-hand experiences, recounting the challenges, triumphs, and controversies surrounding his work on the experiment. He provides insights into the intricacies of the UK's drug laws and discusses their impact on his experiment.Alcohol heroinMisuse of drugs act 1971The ‘Classic paper’ – The North Wind and the SunAccidy, Addiction and the ProhibitionElectroencephalographic Correlates of PsychometryEEG and PsychometryThe Cartesian Bridge: On the Psychology of Consciousness and the Psychopathology of Addiction and SchizophreniaNorth wind and the sunCounty linesSupport the podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we meet with Patrick Cox, a fashion designer with a background collaborating with Vivienne Westwood. Patrick shares his personal journey from his lifestyle in fashion, led to confronting deep-seated intergenerational trauma. Patrick opens up about undertaking the highly secretive Hoffman Process, and the transformative impact this had on him. From there, he further recounts his journey through the healing use of psychedelics, emphasising the transformative power of ego death. Patrick highlights how this journey led to him becoming a 5-MeO facilitator, and guiding others through these healing experiences.5-MEOVivienne WestwoodThe Hoffman processChristopher HitchensLSDCannabisAyahuasca Ego DeathHermet phaseSupport the Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, David Nutt meets with Evgeny Lebedev, owner of the Independent and Evening Standard newspaper. Lebedev shares his transformative journey during his first Ayahuasca ceremony in Costa Rica. Throughout the episode, Lebedev not only shares insight into the ceremony's practices but also describes each personal ayahuasca experience and the themes that tied them together. He highlights his revelations resulting from the ceremony and they discuss the potential of psychedelics within healing practices. AyahuascaPsilocybinLSDDMTSmall PharmaMedical CannabisVietnam hippiesOCDDepressionDr Gabor MateSupport the podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

In the last episode of our live series, David meets with Sorcha as she explains her ongoing research into using low dose psilocybin in treating OCD. She discusses the pre-existing treatment paradigms for OCD and highlights the potential benefits of Psilocybin assisted psychotherapy in future treatment. She overviews her current study and the theories behind it. SchizophreniaOCDPsilocybinSSRI NeuroplasticityThe Mushroom CureSupport the Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

Tomasso discusses his journey on how he became interested in neuroscience and how that lead to him becoming involved with the UK's leading Psychedelic Research Centre. He discusses the potential of psychedelics in promoting positive sexual wellbeing and healthy relationships. He discusses research into the advantages of using psilocybin as an alternative to SSRI’s as well as the potential uses of MDMA in promoting communication within relationships. DMT5-MEO DMTPsilocybinMDMAMAPSTreatment resistant PTSDOxytocinSupport the Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

David talks to Hannah, a 3rd year PhD student as she discusses her research into using psychedelics to treat eating disorders. She highlights how following personal experiences she came to find current treatment methods for anorexia were not sufficient and instead began conducting her own research with Imperial College London to investigate psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy to treat eating disorders. Hannah explains the theories underlying this research as well as the neuroplasticity following from psilocybin which may increase its effectiveness in mental health treatment AnorexiaEating disorder SerotoninayahuascaPsilocybinNeuroplasticityBecome a Drug Science Community Member ★ Support this podcast ★

In the first of our LIVE Psilocybin Series, David Nutt speaks to Rayyan Zafar a final year PhD student at Imperial College London. Rayyan discusses his interest of the connection between the mind and the brain and how it led to his research into using psychedelics to treat addiction. Rayyan delves into various behavioural and neurochemical theories into why dependency occurs and highlights neuroimaging studies which indicate these varied reactions. He further goes on to discuss his current research in using psychedelics to treat addiction and why this treatment is proven to be so successful. AddictionMDMACocaineLSDPsilocybin KetamineNeurotransmittersDopamineCompass PathwaysBill Wilson AA PsychedelicsBecome a drug science community member ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Josh Hardman, the founder of Psychedelic Alpha, explores the multitude of challenges currently being encountered by the psychedelic industry. He engages in discussions regarding the progress of decriminalisation and legalisation initiatives, upcoming clinical trial milestones, and delves into the current state and the potential evolution of the Psychedelic industry. Psychedelic AlphaMDMAPsilocybinGHBCannabisDMTPsychoplastogensMAPSCOMPASS PathwaysNICEOregon Psilocybin Services ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Prof Jo Neill and Dr Hannah Thurgur sit down with Dustin Robinson, the visionary founding partner of Mr. Cannabis Law and a co-founder of Mr. Psychedelics Law. These law firms possess the expertise needed to navigate the intricate and strictly regulated realms of cannabis and psychedelics, addressing a wide range of legal and business challenges within these unique industries.Their discussion covers a range of thought-provoking topics, including US drug policy and reform, the intricate relationship between mental health and these substances, issues around integration of indigenous psychedelics into Western medicine, and the challenges surrounding research funding. Mr Cannabis LawMr Psychedelic LawAdventure Capital FirmKetaminePsilocybinMDMADMTPTSDKetamineTelehealthSmall PharmaMAPS MDMA TrialCompass PathwaysDecriminalise NatureThe Beckley Foundation AwaknSupport the Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

Recorded live from the launch event of David Nutt's latest book, "Psychedelics: The Revolutionary Drugs That Could Change Your Life – a guide from the expert," in this episode Dr. David Erritzoee and David Nutt engage in a discussion about Psychedelics. During the conversation, David Nutt provides valuable insights into the research that initially ignited his interest in Psychedelics and narrates his career journey from chairing the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs to becoming a co-chair of Drug Science. Psychedelics: The revolutionary drugs that could change your life – a guide from the expertSentiaPsilocybinMDMAAntidepressants DepressionLSD DMT AyahuascaAmphetamineNitrous OxideKetamineCannabisEquasy — An overlooked addiction with implications for the current debate on drug harmsAustralia using MDMA and Psilocybin as MedicineSupport the podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Mike Jay explores the contents of his latest book titled "Psychonaut," which offers a thought-provoking and unique account of the scientists, writers, artists, and philosophers who engaged in drug exploration to uncover the enigmatic realms of the mind. The podcast delves into the historical perspective of psychedelics, shedding light on the evolving societal perceptions of these substances. Moreover, it seeks to rediscover a forgotten intellectual legacy of drug experimentation that contributed to the development of psychology, the exploration of the unconscious, and the rise of modernism. The High Society book Mescaline BookPsychonauts BookBrave New World BookThe Doors of Perception BookCocaine Papers Sigmund Freud AlcoholCocaineNitrous OxideCannabisLSDAddictionSupport the podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Meg Spriggs shares her firsthand experience dealing with the challenges mental health while pursuing her studies in academia. She candidly talks about the difficulties she faced with anorexia and mood disorders which led to her investigating the potential of psilocybin for treating Anorexia Nervosa. During the discussion, Meg reveals the shame she felt was associated with various mental health conditions and the consecutive impact this had on her; emphasising the significance of open communication when it comes to mental health, stressing the need for more dialogue and understanding in both the workforce and academia. Additionally, she underscores the importance of prioritising overall wellbeing within these environments. Anorexia NervosaPsilocybinAntidepressantsBeat Eating Disorder SupportSupport the podcastMeg’s Writing Support Meg’s writing ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Jo Neill, and Hannah Thurgur are joined by Danny Ahmed, a highly experienced Registered Mental Health Nurse and Integrated Psychotherapist with over two decades of expertise. Together, they delve into a comprehensive discussion on a variety of harm reduction techniques. Throughout the episode, Danny shares his wealth of insights into the complex world of harm reduction. The conversation spans a broad spectrum of topics, including drug consumption rooms, the notion of ‘recovery’ and women who use drugs amongst much more. Danny offers an enlightening look into the multifaceted world of harm reduction. His expertise not only illuminates effective strategies but also underscores the importance of employing compassionate and empathetic approaches when supporting individuals on their path to well-being. Harm reductionNaloxoneMDMAHeroin CocaineAlcoholBenzodiazapinesMethadoneFentanylBuprenorphineSynthetic opioidsOverdose prevention centresRIOTT trials Project ADDERAlcoholics AnonymousPolydrug useNaloxoneOrder NaloxoneBuddyup AppSupport the Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Professr Valerie Curran, discusses the psychological effects of drugs that act on the human brain. Valerie Curren holds the position of Professorial Fellow in the Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program at ACU's Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre. She has an esteemed background as an Emeritus Professor of Psychopharmacology at University College London (UCL), having established the UCL Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit in 1996. Furthermore, she is a founding member of the charity Drug Science and serves as an advisor to the UK All Party Parliamentary Group on Drug Policy Reform.Tune in to learn about her latest research into the short- and long-term effects of psychoactive drugs on mental health, cognition, memory and the brain as well as how CBD combined with psychological therapy may aid the treatment of cannabis use disorder.BenzosMDMAAlcoholCannabisCBDTHCKetamineMDMA midweek blues paper – in journal Addiction (mid 90s) Inappropriate benzodiazepine use in elderly patients and its reduction Combined and individual effects of CBD and THC on memoryDavid Nutt and Psilocybin in Australia Cannabis potencyCBD treating clinical psychosisCBD in treating cannabis use disorderProject 2021Medical cannabis reducing opiate useJon snow takes cannabis Endocannabinoid systemSupport the podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us for an insightful episode featuring Dr. Carol Routledge, a distinguished senior scientist and the Chief Medical and Scientific Officer at Small Pharma Labs. Dr. Routledge takes us on a journey through her remarkable career path that ultimately led her to work at Small Pharma. With a wealth of experience in both preclinical and clinical settings, she has delved into psychiatric and neurological indications, honing her expertise in understanding and treating mental health disorders.In this conversation, Dr. Carol Routledge draws upon her extensive clinical and psychedelic research background to shed light on the latest developments in DMT research and psychedelic integration therapy. With her profound insights, we explore the potential of these groundbreaking approaches to become formal medicines, revolutionizing the field of mental health treatment.Tune in as Dr. Carol Routledge shares her passion for advancing mental health treatments through innovative research. DMT DepressionSerotoninNor adrenaline Small PharmaChris Timmermann - Human brain effects of DMT assessed via EEG-fMRICMC British technology group (BTG)SSRI Psychedelic experienceAlzheimers research uk ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Peter Hunt discusses the journey which led himself and his wife co-founding Mind Medicine in Australia. Mind Medicine work to alleviate the suffering and suicides caused by mental illness in Australia through expanding the treatment options available to medical practitioners and patients, particularly through the establishment of safe and effective psychedelic-assisted therapies.Delving into the heart of their mission, Peter Hunt explores the groundbreaking potential of psychedelic-assisted treatments in addressing a wide range of mental illnesses. Mind Medicine Australia's commitment to providing accessible and innovative therapies shines through every step of their path.Peter delves into a comprehensive discussion of the recent developments surrounding the rescheduling of Psilocybin in Australia, shedding light on both the obstacles faced and the triumphs achieved throughout the process.Trigger Warning: Sexual assault and rapeMind MedicineMDMAPsilocybinDepressionAlcoholAddictionPTSDChildhood abuseSSRI antidepressantsCovid-19AnorexiaTherapeutic goods administrationAustralia Psilocybin Rescheduling ★ Support this podcast ★

This weeks Podcast features Frédéric Destrebecq and Tadeusz Hawrot as they discuss the latest developments in research and clinical development with psychedelics in Europe.Frédéric Destrebecq is the Executive Director of the European Brain Council (EBC), a non-profit organization based in Brussels, Belgium. The EBC is a network of organizations and individuals dedicated to promoting brain research, raising awareness about brain disorders, and advocating for better policies and funding for brain-related issues at the European level. As the Executive Director, Frédéric Destrebecq leads the organization's efforts in advocating for brain research and policy development, facilitating collaborations, and coordinating initiatives to improve brain health and well-being across Europe.Tadeusz Hawrot is involved in the European federation of neurological associations and the founder and Executive Director of PAREA Science. The Psychedelic Access and Research European Alliance (PAREA) is a multistakeholder alliance bringing together organizations representing EU-wide patient advocacy groups, professional organizations, umbrella alliances, psychedelic foundations, and companies active in the field, advocating for implementing safe, effective and accessible psychedelic assisted therapies in Europe.Live Drug Science Podcast Recording in London PAREA European Brain council European Federation of Neurological Associations The Value of Treatment Project Maps MDMA phase 3 trial Compass Pathways Small Pharma Politico Lancet Horizon MDMA Support the Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

This weeks podcast features Rory Lamont, a former professional Rugby Union player, as he discusses his experiences discovering the transformative healing potential of plant medicines such as Iboga and Ayahuasca.During the 2012 Six Nations tournament, while playing for Scotland, Rory suffered a severe leg break that brought his career to an end. Subsequently, he faced a debilitating health crisis that disrupted his life and vitality. As mainstream medicine failed to provide adequate assistance, Rory sought alternative healing methods. This experience marked a significant shift in his self-awareness and improvement in his overall well-being. Six Nations: Scotland shock as Rory Lamont suffers broken leg during defeat to France Scottish psychedelic research group Jo Rogan and Aubrey Marcus Podcast Benzos Opioids Psilocybin Ibogaine Iboga ceremony Ayahuasca Psychedelic Integration Ayahuasca Ceremony Link for the drug science event Support the Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

In this week's episode of the Drug Science Podcast, Prof Nutt and Dr Thurgur are joined by Dr Evan Lewis of Numinus! Dr. Evan Lewis is a Paediatric Neurologist and Clinical Neurophysiologist with expertise in epilepsy, epilepsy surgery, electroencephalography (EEG), tele-neurology and medical cannabis for the treatment of neurologic disorders. He is the director of the Neurology Centre of Toronto (NCT) which he established in January 2017. At NCT, Dr. Lewis treats children with a variety of neurological disorders and he also treats adults for concussions, headaches and epilepsy.In addition to this, Dr Lewis is the Vice President of Psychedelic Neurology at Numinus. His research area of interest (and the topic of this podcast episode) is cannabis and psychedelic-related neurology, for the treatment of epilepsy & other neurological conditions and the delivery of novel virtual care models in neurology. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this week’s episode, join Professor David Nutt as he engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr Alex Wodak, an internationally renowned authority on harm reduction and the esteemed president of the Australian Drug Law Reform Foundation. With a rich background as the former director of the Alcohol and Drug Service at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney, Australia, Dr Wodak has been instrumental in pioneering groundbreaking initiatives such as Australia's inaugural needle exchange program and the first-ever Australian medically supervised injecting center in Kings Cross, Sydney.While Dr Wodak's expertise is widely recognised in the realm of drug policy and harm reduction, this podcast episode takes a compelling twist as he delves into a topic of immense global significance—the harm reduction approach to one of the most pervasive and widely used substances: tobacco. With an unwavering focus on promoting public health and minimising the detrimental impact of addictive substances, Dr Wodak shares his profound insights on the subject. Throughout the episode, listeners will have the opportunity to explore the nuances surrounding tobacco consumption. Dr Wodak's analysis sheds light on the complexities that contribute to the enduring prevalence of smoking, despite the well-documented health risks and the availability of potential alternatives. From psychological, sociocultural, and economic factors to the powerful grip of addiction, this thought-provoking conversation delves into the multifaceted reasons why individuals continue to smoke. Alex WodakHarm reductionRoger WilliamsKaposi's sarcomaNational Institutes of HealthFDAAnthony FauciHarm Reduction InternationalScurvyAndre CalantzopoulosPsychoactive podcastHon LikHeated Tobacco ProductsChina National Tobacco Corporation ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us on this enlightening episode of the Drug Science podcast as we delve into the fascinating world of serotonergic pathways and their potential applications in treating psychiatric disorders and combating inflammation. Our special guest, Charles Nichols, a distinguished professor of pharmacology at LSU New Orleans, shares his groundbreaking research on the psychedelic 5-HT2A serotonin receptor.During our conversation, we explore the intricate relationship between the 5-HT2A receptor and its role in both anti-inflammation and the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Charles Nichols guides us through the mechanisms behind these processes, shedding light on how psychedelics like LSD can play a crucial role in modulating the 5-HT2A receptor.Drawing from his innovative studies, Charles Nichols reveals a surprising avenue of research involving the administration of LSD to depressed fruit flies. We uncover the intriguing results of these experiments and discuss the implications they hold for understanding the neural mechanisms underlying depression and potential treatments.As we venture further into our conversation, we explore the broader implications of Charles Nichols' work, touching on the potential of psychedelics in revolutionizing mental health treatments and redefining our understanding of brain function. We examine the challenges and prospects of translating this research into practical therapies for individuals suffering from psychiatric disorders.Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of the Drug Science podcast to discover the cutting-edge advancements in psychedelic research, and gain a deeper appreciation for the therapeutic potential of serotonergic pathways in treating mental health disorders and combating inflammation. British Association for PsychopharmacologySerotonin 5-HT2a receptorDavid NicholsSerotonin DopamineElaine Sanders-Bush5-HT2C receptorFunctional selectivityPorsolt forced swimming testLSDPsilocybinCocaineMetamphetamineTryptophanCitalopram2,5-Dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI)TNF-alphaInterleukin 6 (IL6)Stephania CormierTimothy FosterDMTMicroglia ★ Support this podcast ★

Is depression evolutionary? Is inflammation good or bad? Can sleep be bad for you? Tune in to find out. Depression is a complex and debilitating mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite the prevalence of depression, its causes and origins are still not entirely understood. In this episode of the Drug Science Podcast, we explore the evolutionary perspective on depression with renowned psychiatrist and researcher, Dr. Charles Raison. Dr. Charles Raison is a psychiatrist and professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Emory University. Having moved from the field of anthropology into psychiatry, Dr. Raison is now internationally recognized for his studies examining novel mechanisms involved in the development and treatment of major depression and other stress-related emotional and physical conditions, as well as for his work examining the physical and behavioral effects of compassion training. The New Mind-Body Science of DepressionAndrew H. Miller Interferon alphaParoxetine for the prevention of depression induced by high-dose interferon alfaInfliximab Tumor necrosis factorA randomized controlled trial of the tumor necrosis factor antagonist infliximab for treatment-resistant depression: the role of baseline inflammatory biomarkersAntidepressant treatment resistance is associated with increased inflammatory markers in patients with major depressive disorderBurning down the house: reinventing drug discovery in psychiatry for the development of targeted therapies CRP Interleukin 6 (IL-6)Interleukin 1 betaWim HofPivotal mental statesUsona InstituteCOMPASS PathwaysCentre for Psychedelics and Spirituality Psilocybin MAPSMDMATrial of Psilocybin versus Escitalopram for Depression5-MeO-DMTSleeping with one eye open: loneliness and sleep quality in young adults ★ Support this podcast ★

Are you curious about the impact of drug policies on marginalized communities? Then tune in to this week's episode of our podcast! Our guest, Kassandra Frederique, the Executive Director of the Drug Policy Alliance, joins Dr. Hannah Thurgur to discuss the impact of drug policies on Black, Latino, Indigenous, immigrant, and LGBTQ communities. You'll also discover how the Drug Policy Alliance is working to build alternatives grounded in justice and equity. Join us to explore how we can end the war on drugs not just in the US, but worldwide. Listen now!Through innovative campaigns on policing, overdose crises, and marijuana legalization, Kassandra has been fighting for justice and equity in drug policies. Her work lies at the intersection of science, compassion, health, and human rights. With her guidance, the Drug Policy Alliance has been mobilizing cities to rethink their approach to drug policy from the ground up. Rudy Giuliani Lindesmith Center Supervised Consumption Centers in New York Transform Drug Policy Foundation Release Regulating Right, Repairing Wrongs: Exploring Equity and Social Justice Initiatives within UK Cannabis Reform Scottish overdose prevention service Methadone Narcan ★ Support this podcast ★

T21 (formerly Project Twenty21) is a pioneering medical cannabis registry launched in the United Kingdom in 2019. It aims to create the UK's largest body of evidence for the effectiveness and tolerability of medical cannabis in treating a range of conditions.T21 focuses on patients with conditions that can be treated with medical cannabis such as chronic pain, anxiety conditions, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Tourette's syndrome, and substance use disorder. A list of conditions that qualify for medical cannabis treatment can be found here. The registry provides patients with access to discounted medical cannabis from licensed producers and clinicians who have undergone training in the use of medical cannabis while collecting data to strengthen the evidence base The project is seen as a significant step forward in promoting research into the potential therapeutic benefits of medical cannabis, and in improving patient access to this treatment option in the UK.In this very special episode of the Drug Science Podcast, we will be joined by three members of the Drug Science team: David Badcock – Chief Executive Officer of Drug ScienceProf Michael Lynskey – Chief Research OfficerAlkyoni Athanasiou-Fragkouli – Research Officer for T21 *Please note that in this episode we make reference to a medical cannabis legal document that will be provided in the shownotes, this document is VERY close to being finished but it needs a few last-minute reviews to ensure that all of the information is 100% accurate, we appreciate your patience. Meet the presenters!Find out more about T21 David Nutt >< David Badcock Hepatitis C project T21 latest data & data nuggetsT21 publications: · Medication sparing after medical cannabis initiation: A case study of a chronic pain patient in Project Twenty21· Developing a real-world evidence base for prescribed cannabis in the United Kingdom: preliminary findings from Project Twenty21· Characteristics of People Seeking Prescribed Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Chronic Pain: Evidence From Project Twenty 21· The value of real world evidence: The case of medical cannabis· Preliminary findings from project Twenty21 Australia: An observational study of patients prescribed medicinal Cannabis for chronic pain, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder and multiple sclerosis ★ Support this podcast ★

Are you curious about the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelic-assisted therapy? Tune in to this week's episode of our podcast, where we have a fascinating conversation with Dr. Graham Campbell, a renowned consultant psychiatrist and researcher in the field.Drawing from his extensive experience in both psychedelic research and clinical work, Dr. Campbell shares his insights on a range of topics. Discover his thoughts on the possibility of introducing psychedelic treatments by the NHS, the differences between magic mushrooms and DMT in the treatment of depression, and the crucial role of music in a psychedelic journey.Join us for an engaging and informative discussion on the cutting-edge of psychedelic-assisted therapy, with one of the leading experts in the field. Don't miss out - listen to our latest episode now!Listen to Graham's music here! Psychedelic Assisted Therapy Small Pharma DMT Ketamine Intranasal Esketamine (SpravatoTM) for Use in Treatment-Resistant Depression In Conjunction With an Oral Antidepressant Schizophrenia Bipolar disorder Schizoaffective disorder Trial of Psilocybin versus Escitalopram for Depression Rosalind Watts Michelle Baker Jones Roberta Murphy Jonny Martell Ashleigh Murphy-Beiner Psilocybin Institute of Psychedelic Therapy The Readiness of Psychiatrists to Implement Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust Ayahuasca Monoamine oxidase inhibitor Serotonin The ACE Model The hidden therapist: evidence for a central role of music in psychedelic therapy Max Cooper Music and the Mind by Anthony Storr Mind Foundation Maria Papaspyrou ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to season 4 of the Drug Science Podcast! In this episode, we're introducing our new hosts: Professor Jo Neill and Dr Hannah Thurgur! Jo Neill is a professor of psychopharmacology at the University of Manchester and the chair of the Medical Psychedelics Working Group of Drug Science. Following years of clinical and scientific experience, Jo decided to focus on spreading knowledge about the use of psychedelic medicines to tackle the mental health crisis head-on! Hannah Thurgur is a doctor of neuroscience. After finishing her studies her research focus shifted from the lab to working with patients in clinical trials involving medical cannabis and psychedelics. She is the study coordinator for the Drug Science Long Covid study which aims to test a high cannabidiol (CBD) containing medical cannabis oil to see if it can improve the symptoms of this challenging condition. Tune in to meet Jo and Hannah and hear about the upcoming events, podcasts, and plans for Drug Science! ★ Support this podcast ★

This week we present you with part 2 of the podcast recorded live at the book launch of 'Drug Science and British Drug Policy’. We’re going to hear panel discussions on the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and different approaches to drug policy with co-authors of the book. This time, professor David Nutt will talk with Niamh Eastwood (Release), Steve Rolles (Transform drug policy foundation), and Cara Lavan (Anyone’s Child). Naloxone Sentia GABA SpiritThe Numbers in Black And White: Ethnic Disparities In The Policing And Prosecution Of Drug Offences In England And WalesDrugs, Crime and Public Health: The Political Economy of Drug PolicyThe LoopLewisham Diversion SchemeUtrecht MDMA shopLegal Regulation of Drugs in ColombiaSynthetic cannabinoidsThe House I Live InCrack cocaineStrip search Stop and search ★ Support this podcast ★

This week we present you with a podcast recorded live at the book launch of ‚Drug Science and British drug policy’. We’re going to hear panel discussions on the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and different approaches to drug policy with co-authors of the book. In part 1 professor David Nutt will talk with Prof Alex Stevens (Professor in Criminal Justice), Prof Val Curran (Professor of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology), and Roz Gittins (Director of Pharmacy). Tune in to hear about 50 years of failed drug policy, and what you can do to influence change. Drug Science and British Drug Policy: Critical Analysis of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971Misuse of Drugs Act 1971Sentia GABA SpiritProfessor Alex StevensAdvisory Council on the Misuse of DrugsEcstasy (MDMA)‚Drug policy ratchet’CannabinoidTetrahydrocannabinol (THC)Harm reduction The Drugtakers. The Social Meaning of Drug Use by Jock YoungOverdose prevention centre (OPC)Foil for harm reductionBaroness Wootton of AbingerDame Carol BlackControlled Drug ClassesRonnie CowanNational Institute of Drug AbuseDrug Science Student Society NetworkHeroinNaloxoneHuman psychobiology of MDMA or 'Ecstasy': an overview of 25 years of empirical research by Andrew Parrott George Ricaurte MDMA Research Controversy Nitrous oxideSadiq Khan plans pilot to ‘decriminalise’ minor cannabis offences in LondonIntranasal Naloxone Khat ★ Support this podcast ★

Dr Gillian Shorter is currently a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at Queen’s University Belfast, with 17 years’ research experience on substance use and allied works. Her main research focus is supporting people who use drugs or alcohol who are not seeking formal treatment. She led the evaluation of the UK’s first unsanctioned drug consumption site in Glasgow, Scotland run by Peter Krykant, and has an interest in developing models for overdose prevention centres including community engagement, evaluation, understanding, and delivery in partnerships with people who have lived or living experience of substance use. Matt Southwell is a high-level advocate, technical advisor and drug user activist. He was one of the UK’s first generation of harm reduction workers in the late 1980s founding the pioneering and award-winning Healthy Options Team (HOT). In 1999 Mat decided to come out publicly as a drug user on a BBC documentary leading to dismissal from his position in the NHS Drug Services and the loss of his successful private consulting firm. Since this time Mat has supported drug user organisations and led different drug user networks from the local to the global level. Mat is currently Project Manager for the European Network of People who Use Drugs (EuroNPUD). Is the UK on its way to opening first official drug injection sites? How can one influence police officials and politicians to lobby for a positive change? How effective are these solutions in preventing drug related deaths?Tune in to listen to this highly insightful and simply important episode. EuroNPUDSupervised Injection FacilitiesHarm reductioncoActOverdose Prevention CentresNeedle and syringe programmesReducing drug-related harms in Sandwell: the need and feasibility of an overdose prevention serviceOpioid agonist therapyMethadone BuprenorphineDiamorphine (Heroin-assisted treatment)Drug Science Enhanced Harm Reduction Working Group Illicit drugs classification in the UKPeter KrykantCAS Baluard BarcelonaDrug consumption rooms ★ Support this podcast ★

Libby and Ben are third-year students from Swansea University and the University of York, who are deeply interested in the use of psychedelics in medicine and drug policy. At their universities, they are presidents of their respective Psychedelics in Medicine societies which raise awareness on the therapeutic potential of psychedelic drugs among fellow students. Tune in to the episode to find out about their journeys into the world of Drug Science and how to get involved yourself! Get in touch with the Student Society Network! Find out more about the Drug Science Student Society Network Psychedelics in Medicine Podcast SerotoninNeuroscientifically ChallengedPsilocybin LSDBen SessaMDMAMDMA and psychotherapy in alcohol dependence treatmentBrain on LSD imagingPsycareDrugs Harm ScaleProject Twenty21Drug Science Student Society NetworkBrain and Mind Made Simple by David NuttUK Patient Conference: Medical Cannabis Awareness Week 2022Medical cannabis awareness week Anything Can HappenSecondary School Education ResourcesTransform DrugsAnyone’s ChildMisuse of Drugs Act 1971Harm Reduction ★ Support this podcast ★

Mattha Busby is a freelance journalist for publications including the Guardian, Observer, London Times, Vice, Jacobin and Leafly. Based in Mexico, Mattha writes about health, drugs, nutrition, human rights, blockchain, the environment, and events in Latin America. 'Should All Drugs Be Legalized?’ reads the title of his first book, listen to this week’s episode to find out the answer!Should All Drugs Be LegalizedMexican drug warMedical cannabisOaxaca Awakn Life Sciences GroupIbogaineAyahuascaPsilocybin Jamaican Psilocybin RetreatsMaria SabinaPeyoteR. Gordon Wasson“Seeking the Magic Mushroom” by Gordon WassonMezcal CocaineThe Peyote DanceAldous Huxley‘I’m a lighter me’: Can Mike Tyson and psychedelics help boxers with brain trauma?Hunter S. TompsonMexico’s Supreme Court rules personal marijuana possession legal, againJoaquín "El Chapo" GuzmánJalisco New Generation CartelDutch Ecstasy “Shop”MDMALSD could help alcoholics stop drinking, AA founder believedMick Lynch ★ Support this podcast ★

This week’s episode features Andrew Gold of the On the Edge with Andrew Gold podcast. Andrew Gold is a journalist and TV presenter who lived in 6 countries, producing documentaries on bizarre and controversial subcultures. His documentaries range from the award-winning Exorcism: The Battle for Young Minds to stories on hunted UFOs. ★ Support this podcast ★

Professor Badiani received his doctoral degree in Medicine and Surgery from Sapienza University of Rome and carried out post-doctoral research in Italy (CNR), Canada (CSBN), and USA (University of Michigan) to then return to Sapienza University Medical School as Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacology, progressing to the rank of Full Professor in 2008. At Sapienza he also served as Associate Chief Physician in the Drug Addiction unit of the University Hospital. Additionally, he has been President of the European Behavioural Pharmacology Society (EBPS) from 2011 to 2013. Professor Badiani conducts research in the field of drug addiction with the focus on the role of environmental factors in determining individual vulnerability to drug addiction in both humans and animals. In this episode of Drug Science podcast you’ll learn about the most recent research on the science of drug addiction from a leading expert in the field. Jane StewartDopamine Terry RobinsonCocaine AmphetamineDrug sensitization (reverse tolerance)PsychotomimetismPsychosisIncentive sensitization theory of addiction Kent C BerridgeMorphineHeroin Adrenal glandHuda AkilStriatumNucleus accumbensFrontal cortexOpiatePsychostimulant Naloxone precipitated withdrawal increases dopamine release in the dorsal striatum of opioid dependent menRussell’s Circumplex Models ★ Support this podcast ★

Professor Allan Young is a psychopharmacologist and the Director of the Centre for Affective Disorders in the Department of Psychological Medicine in the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King’s College London. Prof Young is the clinical academic lead in the Psychological Medicine and Integrated Care Clinical Academic Group in the South London and Maudsley NHS Trust where he is also a Consultant Psychiatrist and the head of the National Affective Disorders Tertiary Clinic. Professor Young’s research interests focus on the cause and treatments for severe psychiatric illnesses, particularly mood disorders like depression. He has received research grant funding from the UK Medical Research Council, the Wellcome Trust, and numerous other respected funding agencies worldwide. He has published over 400 peer-reviewed publications and a number of books about psychopharmacology and affective disorders. According to the 2014 Thomson Reuters Highly Cited Researcher list, Professor Young was recently ranked as one of the world's leading scientific minds in the field of Psychiatry and Psychology. DepressionBipolar disorderMajor depressive episodeAnhedoniaICD-10DSM-5Atypical depressionImmuno-metabolic depressionSSRIRapid cycling bipolar disorderTricyclic antidepressantsMonoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)Dopamine receptor D2Cognitive Remediation TherapyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceCBTKetamineEsketamine: Ketamine nasal spray BioavailabilityPsilocybin: From Serendipity to Credibility?COMPASS Pathways ★ Support this podcast ★

Listen in to hear Robin’s valuable perspective on matters such as assisted death, private education and the difference between a debate and a conversation. The Demon-Haunted WorldThe Infinite Monkey CageAssisted dyingSection 28Peter Singer if…Frankie HowerdAmusing Ourselves to Death ★ Support this podcast ★

Coming from Canada, home to one of the most progressive drug addiction services in the world, Manisha was reporting for VICE News in their new documentary 'Beyond Fentanyl' which looks at how drugs like “benzos,” "dope” and “tranq” are ravaging North American communities and how U.S. policy affected the latest flood of synthetic street drugs. Tune in to this week’s episode for a VICE journalist’s perspective on drug policies around the world. OxycodoneHeroinFentanylBenzodiazepinesDowner and upper drugsDrug overdoseNoradrenalineLofexidineAwakn clinic“This Is Something That Changed My Life”: A Qualitative Study of Patients' Experiences in a Clinical Trial of Ketamine Treatment for Alcohol Use DisordersibogainePsilocybinAyahuascaDMTToad venom5-MeO-DMTSupervised injection sitesNaloxoneBristol drug testingThe LoopMephedroneMonkey dustBath Salts drugoxycontin crisisCannabisBeyond Fentanyl documentary ★ Support this podcast ★

This week’s episode features Professor Bruce Alexander, a psychologist and professor emeritus from Vancouver, BC, Canada, author of two books about addiction: Peaceful Measures: Canada's Way Out of the War on Drugs and The Globalization of Addiction: A Study in Poverty of the Spirit. Professor Alexander conducted a series of experiments into drug addiction known as the Rat Park experiments. Which brought into light the true complexity of addiction and the influence of our environment on how we use drugs and how they affect us. Listen to this episode to find out why the “demon drug myth” is extremely out of date with the scientific world and what we can do to debunk it. Skin poppersHeroinMorphineDemon drug mythIan KershawRat parkHow permanent was Vietnam drug addiction ★ Support this podcast ★

This week’s episode features English television and radio presenter, and model Melanie Sykes.Melanie is an advocate for medical cannabis use for childhood epilepsy and other chronic conditions. In 2021 she became an Ambassador in Medcan Support - a non-profit community interest company who provide free resources and educational material on medical cannabis, the endocannabinoid system and the positive outcomes cannabis treatment has had on so many people throughout the UK. With her support, she helps fight the stigma and raises other issues which are preventing access to the natural medicine.Listen to this episode of the podcast to find out more about medical cannabis and also how an autism diagnosis at 51 can change your life! Don’t ‘Talk to FRANK’ but do check out the Frank magazine -> The Frank Magazine CannabisAutismHarry ThompsonADHDNeurodivergenceMedcan supportThe Autistic Brain: Thinking Across the SpectrumThe Frank MagazineHempWeed the PeopleEpilepsyProject Twenty21William Broke O’Shaughnessy ★ Support this podcast ★

This week’s episode features yet another great speaker at the ESPD55 conference Mark Plotkin, an ethnobotanist, advocate for tropical forest conservation and the host of Plants of the Gods podcast. Following research at Harvard under Richard Evans Schultes and years of working in a close relationship with the native communities of Amazonia, Mark with his books, podcasts and talks educates the public about the wondrous world of plants, their history, medicinal and cultural significance. Accordingly, he advocates for saving tropical forests as entities inseparable from their indigenous cultures. His group Amazon Conservation Team focuses on helping the communities to survive within the modern world rather than subordinate to it. Tune in to the episode to find out how we can help these communities grow but also how wine, magic mushrooms and other substances might have influenced our own culture.The Plants of the GodsKary MullisThujone ESPD55Dennis McKennaStoned Ape HypothesisDrunken monkey hypothesisThe Ethnobotany of Wine as Medicine in the Ancient Mediterranean WorldRichard Evans SchultesScopolamineErik the redThe Shamans and Apprentices ProgramTales of a Shaman’s ApprenticeTimothy LearyAmazon Conservation Team Ethnographic mappingPeyoteAyahuascaMescalineRichard SpruceAlfred Russel WallaceDMTCocaCocaineCannabisKratomIbogaine ★ Support this podcast ★

Wade Davis is a Canadian cultural anthropologist, ethnobotanist, author, and photographer. Davis came to prominence with his 1985 best-selling book The Serpent and the Rainbow about the ‘zombies of Haiti’. He is professor of anthropology and the BC Leadership Chair in Cultures and Ecosystems at Risk at the University of British Columbia.Davis has published articles in Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Outside, National Geographic, Fortune, and Condé Nast Traveler. He is an Explorer-in-Residence at the National Geographic Society and had produced 18 documentary films. His work has largely focused on worldwide indigenous cultures, and has taken him to, among others, East Africa, Borneo, Nepal, Peru and Tibet.As a honorary citizen of Colombia, Wade Davis educates about the true culture of a country known mostly for its drug cartels and cocaine scandals. Listen to this week’s episode to find out about Colombia and its sacred plant - Coca, a stimulant milder than tea and with more nutritional benefits than all the plants we know of. ESPD55.comLeaves of GrassGold Museum, BogotáKogi peopleMorphineOpiumOpioidsHow Coffee Fuelled RevolutionsCaffeinePenny universityDEA Drug SchedulingHallucinogensTimothy LearyManuel SantosCocaineCoca leavesCoca wine (Vin Mariani)Dennis McKenna Albert HoffmanPeyoteRichard Evans ShultesAlkaloidVolstead actAndrew Weil ★ Support this podcast ★

Dennis Jon McKenna is an American ethnopharmacologist, research pharmacognosist, lecturer and author. He received his doctorate in botanical sciences from the University of British Columbia and completed post-doctoral research fellowships in the National Institute of Mental Health and in the Department of Neurology at Stanford University School of Medicine. His research has included the pharmacology, botany, and chemistry of ayahuasca and oo-koo-hé, the subjects of his master's thesis. He has also conducted extensive fieldwork in the Peruvian, Colombian, and Brazilian Amazon. Having authored numerous scientific articles and books, McKenna’s work led to the development of natural products for Aveda Corporation as well as greater awareness of natural products and medicines. Additionally, together with his brother Terence McKenna and Jeremy Bigwood, he developed a technique for cultivating psilocybin mushrooms, and published what they had learned in a book Psilocybin - Magic Mushroom Grower’s Guide.With that immense experience and knowledge of psychedelics, Dennis McKenna is a founding board member and the director of ethnopharmacology at the Heffter Research Institute, A non-profit which investigates the potential medicinal uses of these substances.Tune in to this week’s episode to find out about the true significance of ethnopharmacology and a conference organised by Dennis that you’ll be able to stream online very soon!ETHNOPHARMACOLOGIC SEARCH FOR PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGSDennis McKennaESPD 50National Institute of Mental HealthAlexander ShulginAndrew WeilEthnopharmacologic Search for Psychoactive DrugsEthnopharmacologyCocaCody SwiftCOMPASS psilocybin trialPsilocybinESPD 55“Sea DMT” Tryptamine in Sea SpongesNew York Times DMT toad article How to Change your Mind by Michael PollanNational Institutes of Health (NIH)Poison arrow frogsBufoteninSerotonin receptorsAyahuascaAutoradiographyLSDSalvinorinKappa opioid receptorICCERS - The International Centre for Ethnobotanical Education, Research, and ServiceIbogaAyahuasca tourismMckenna’s missionDMT: The Spirit Molecule (documentary)ESPD55.comPsilocybin Pulse DosingMicrodosingOregon Drug DecriminalizationSet and settingSerotoninDopamineDefault mode networkRobin Carhart-Harris5-HT2a receptor ★ Support this podcast ★

This week we’re talking about ketamine with Professor Celia Morgan, a Professor of Psychopharmacology at the University of Exeter and the academic lead for Exeter Translational Addiction Partnership (ETAP) and Ketamine for Reduction of Alcoholic Relapse (KARE). Professor Morgan is interested in the effects of drugs and alcohol on the brain and behaviour. Her research focuses on examining both the benefits and side effects of recreational drugs on cognition, mental health and neurobiology. Through behavioural, neuroimaging studies and clinical trials, she has investigated the potentially therapeutic sides of controlled substances in clinical trials aimed at the treatment of addiction and in particularly looking at drugs such as ketamine and MDMA in combination with psychological therapies. Tune into this week's episode to find out all about ketamine and how cycling around squats in North London can be part of scientific research... ★ Support this podcast ★

Dr Watts is a clinical psychologist, a mother, and a nature lover. Her work as the Clinical Lead for Imperial College London’s psilocybin trial, and subsequent role as the Clinical Director at Synthesis Institute, have made her one of the most prominent voices and minds in the field of psychedelic research. Dr Watts builds tools and structures to foster connectedness after psychedelic experiences, finding inspiration for their design from nature. The most recent of which is the integration community she’s created - ACER Integration. While working in clinical practice Rosalind has developed a psychedelic therapy model she coined ACE, which stands for, ‘Accept, Connect, Embody’. Based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and the ‘Psychological Flexibility Model’, she mapped the journey that individuals under the influence of a psychedelic go through when they dive into their experience, extract the meaningful lessons to heal, and then integrate and embody them afterwards. Her qualitative research, exploring the perspectives of participants in several psychedelic research studies, gave rise to her interest in the common theme of ‘connectedness to Self, others, and the world’ as an essential aspect of psychedelic treatment. With that patient-centred attitude, she gives insightful talks focusing on the patients’ perspective on the psychedelic journey as a part of the healing process.Listen to the podcast to learn about the beauty and the nuances of psychedelic experience and healing.Join Dr Watts for the inaugural launch of ACER Integration here -> https://dandelion.earth/events/622233b3025fc50011891f2e Learn more about ACER Integration -> https://www.drrosalindwatts.com/ Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)Psychedelic therapyForensic psychologyThe Portman ClinicPsychoanalysisPsychedelic use and recidivismAyahuascaMichael PollanRobin Carhart-HarrisMDMAMendel KaelenKintsugiPsilocybinBad tripWilliam A. Richards (Bill)Abraham MaslowCarl JungAcceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT)Dialectical behaviour therapyPsychological flexibilitySynthesis InstituteIsland (Huxley novel)Journal of Humanistic Psychology ★ Support this podcast ★

Professor Dame Carol Black studied history at Bristol University, then worked as a schoolteacher, however, in 1965 Black enrolled as a mature student to study medicine which she graduated from at the age of 30.During her career, she’s been an advisor for the government on issues such as the relationship between work and health. She’d issue reports regarding sick leaves due to physical and mental health, including drug addictions.In 2019 Professor Dame Carol Black was appointed to lead a major 2-part review that looked into the relationship between drugs and violence but also treatment, recovery and prevention of drug addictions.Listen to this week’s episode to hear the perspective of a dedicated physician but also a government advisor on the approach to both treatment and social implications of drug addictions. Cicely SaundersSclerodermaRoyal College of PhysiciansNewnham CollegeReview of drugs: phase two reportMethadoneIndividual placement and supportSajid JavidMatt HancockNational Treatment Agency of Substance Misuse (NTA) ★ Support this podcast ★

Ethan Nadelmann studied at Harvard University and London School of Economics and was a lecturer at Princeton University. While at Princeton, Nadelmann’s work focused on drug policy, attracting considerable attention with his articles in Science, Foreign Affairs, National Review and many others. He also formed the Princeton Working Group on the Future of Drug Use and Alternatives to Drug Prohibition. In mid-90s Nadelmann founded the Lindesmith Center, a drug policy institute that six years later became the Drug Policy Alliance, a group for drug policies "grounded in science, compassion, health and human rights.” As the Executive Director of the organisation, Nadelmann advocates for the application of harm reduction principles to minimize the public health effects of the War on Drugs. In 2021 he launched Psychoactive, a podcast on drug policy, drug use, and drugs research featuring Nadelmann interviewing leading figures in current debates on drugs such as head of the US National Institute of Drug Abuse Nora Volkow, authors Michael Pollan and Andrew Weil. What’s the future of drug policies? Will tobacco become the next substance politicians will go to war against? Be sure to tune in to find out! McGill University Cannabis Hash Magic Mushrooms (Psilocybin) Cops Across Borders DEA Andrew Weil Alexander “Sasha” Shulgin Lester Grinspoon Harry Levine Jeffrey Fagan Tobacco (Nicotine) Kenneth Warner Sylvia Law Arnold Trebach National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws Kevin Zeese War on Drugs George Soros Foreign Policy magazine Open Society Foundations Lindesmith center Alfred Lindesmith Drug Policy Alliance International Harm Reduction Development Program (IHRD) Ballot initiative Brompton cocktail The Heroin Solution by Arnold S. Trebach Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 Marjorie “Mo” Mowlam Keith Hellawell Heroin-assisted treatment Partnership for a Drug-Free America Jesse Jackson Charles Rangel Chuck Schumer The Beckley Foundation Fentanyl Tobacco Harm Reduction Smoking Cessation and Psilocybin ★ Support this podcast ★

James Fadiman is a true man of many talents. Wikipedia calls him an ‘American writer’, but actually, he’s worked in multiple fields, from psychology, through to IT and, finally, to psychedelic research.He studied Psychology at Harvard University and obtained a PhD from Stanford University. As a graduate student at Stanford, Fadiman was Stewart Brand's LSD guide on Brand's first LSD trip, at Myron Stolaroff's International Foundation for Advanced Study in Menlo Park, California.He was also part of the team in the psychedelics in problem-solving experiment at the International Foundation for Advanced Study, which was abruptly halted in 1966 together with all the remarkable psychedelic research that was happening in the US. Additionally, Fadiman worked at Stanford's Augmentation Research Center, a division that did research on networked computing. What did the technological research group need a psychologist in their team for? How are psychedelics and technological advances interconnected? And finally, what happens when you give psychedelics to a group of scientists? Listen to this week’s episode to find out! Richard Alpert (Baba Ram Dass)PsilocybinTimothy LearyAldous HuxleyInternational Foundation for Advanced StudyMyron StolaroffLSDBrandeis UniversityWillis HarmanPTSDSet and settingMescaline Doug EngelbartThe Mother of All DemosNixon’s War on drugsAbraham MaslowMicrodosingmicrodosingpsychedelics.com FDADouble-blind studiesLupus ★ Support this podcast ★

If you were told you had months, weeks or even days left to live...would you care what the law said about consuming psychoactive substances? This week’s episode features Spencer Hawkswell the CEO of TheraPsil - a non-profit coalition dedicated to helping Canadians in medical need access legal, psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy to treat end-of-life distress. Spencer believes that responsible drug policy requires effective organization and leadership and is dedicated to bringing together the experts and advocates, to facilitate change that results in increased access to compassionate care, harm reduction, and treatment options for those in need.Tune in to this week’s episode to hear how the Land of Maple Leaf implements its patient-centred approach in healthcare. What happened in the UK? Are there lessons to be learnt from Canada? PsilocybinCannabisTrigeminal neuralgia Patty HajduJean-Yves DuclosHealth CanadaFentanyl Clonazepam Section 56 Exemption Roland R. GriffithsMathew W. JohnsonRobin Carhart-HarrisAnthony P. BossisKetamineHolotropic breathworkCluster headacheADHDAcid (LSD)Medical assistance in dyingLetter to Minister DuclosRe: Proposed Regulations for Medical Access to Psilocybin ★ Support this podcast ★

This week’s episode features Paul Glue, professor of Psychiatry at the Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, New Zealand.With a vast experience in both academia and pharmaceutical industry, Paul Glue's research focuses on clinical and basic science to investigate the pharmacology of drug treatments in psychiatry and the disease mechanisms of neurological and psychiatric disorders. He is also interested in psychopharmacology and the development of novel therapeutics for affective disorders. One of these novel substances that have dominated his career is ketamine for treatment-resistant depression. Tune in to this episode to listen to a fascinating conversation between two great scientists about, well… Drug Science.KetamineIbogaineNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismMicrodialysisElectroconvulsive therapy (ECT)NMDA glutamate receptorOverexcitement and disinhibition Dynamic Neurotransmitter Interactions in Alcohol Withdrawal by Paul Glue and David Nutt Methamphetamine John KrystalTreatment-resistant depressionKetamine Assisted PsychotherapyMontgomery-Asberg Depression Rating ScaleDouglas PharmaceuticalsPlasma brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and response to ketamine in treatment-resistant depressionMechanisms of ketamine action as an antidepressant - P Zanos, T D GouldFood and Drug Administration (FDA)Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory AgencyGood manufacturing practice (GMP)Paroxetine QT interval The Anti-Addiction Drug Ibogaine and the Heart: A Delicate RelationNoribogaineProzacPsychedelics Promote Structural and Functional Neural Plasticity - Ly et al.Serotonin 2a receptor ★ Support this podcast ★