Psychedelics

Press Release: Incannex to open psychedelic psychotherapy clinic’s. Image: Getty Incannex to open psychedelic clinic’s business with leading Australian experts

Published

1 year ago

March 18, 2023

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IHL is undergoing a pivotal point in its journey as a company moving from pure research to service delivery as Australia becomes the first country to recognise psychedelics as medicine.

Incannex Healthcare (ASX: IHL) has announced that it has developed plans for the commercialisation and launch of multiple psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy clinics, the first of which will open in Melbourne in 2023.

Incannex is at an advanced stage of negotiation on riverfront premises for its first clinic in Melbourne and hopes to roll out many more as the market potential is what it has referred to as a “multi-billion dollar opportunity”.

IHL said it has been developing commercialisation plans for psychedelic clinics for some time, well before the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) decision to down-schedule psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and MDMA for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was announced.

Psychedelic Clinics have been developed under the leadership of Peter Widdows, a long-standing IHL director.

“When the TGA announced the down-scheduling of MDMA and psilocybin for two indications, we were in a perfect position to expand our plans to cover this wider set of related therapies for certain indications,” Widdows said.

“This is both an amazing opportunity to do some good for humankind by delivering high-quality, effective treatments for debilitating conditions that often don’t respond to available treatments, and a great business opportunity, with a market that is predicted to mature into a multi-billion-dollar industry segment.”

Partnerships with clinical professionals

IHL has entered a partnership with Australia’s leading clinical psychedelic professionals, who all have extensive experience within clinical psychedelic research, treatment, and training.

Co-founder, director, chief strategy, and chief scientific officer Paul Liknaitzky has played a central role in establishing the clinical psychedelic field in Australia and leads the largest group of psychedelic researchers and clinicians in the country.

He is the chief principal investigator on a program of psychedelic trials and collaborates on numerous others nationally.

He has led the development of psychedelic trial protocols, treatment design, trial coordination, therapist selection and training, and has established active collaborations with an extensive network of international experts and organisations in the field.

His work is focused on developing innovative therapies, evaluating benefits, exploring potential drawbacks, predicting treatment response, mitigating risks, understanding therapeutic mechanisms, and translating research into practice.

“The safe, useful, and ethical translation of clinical psychedelic research into practice has been at the forefront of my mind for some years, as we conduct trials and learn first-hand about the potential and the complexity of providing psychedelic therapies,” Liknaitzky said.

“Very few people in Australia have the unique expertise and experience in delivering psychedelic therapies, and it is incumbent on those who do, to set the highest standards in patient safety, quality of care, ethical conduct, and accessibility.”

Leading transition to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy

Co-founder, director chief medical officer and head of psychiatry Professor Suresh Sundram has led more than 50 clinical trials and studies in psychiatric disorders and has extensive experience with the use of psychedelics within psychotherapy.

“The down-scheduling of certain psychedelic treatments for certain conditions is an important transition point to establish the utility and role of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in mental illness,” Sundram said.

“Providing a custom-tailored environment to deliver the best possible therapeutic experience is critical.

“To enable this, and to evaluate and deliver outcomes, is a rare opportunity.”

Co-founder, director and head of psychotherapy Sean O’Carroll is an integrative psychotherapist and academic specialising in experiential, relational, and transpersonal psychotherapy.

Since 2019, he has developed and delivered psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy training for several clinical psychedelic research teams.

O’Carroll began lecturing in transpersonal psychology in 2011 and has more than 10 years’ experience working with what he calls “psychedelic casualties”.

Through the Wild Mind Institute, he offers training for mental health practitioners in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, “bad trip” integration, and eco-psychotherapy.

“Many of us in the research community were surprised by the recent TGA announcement, understanding this research is still in its early stages here in Australia, and that a good deal of necessary infrastructure is not yet in place,” O’Carroll said.

“With this decision, those of us who have the experience and expertise in this field feel a responsibility to contribute to the best possible care and provide a benchmark for safe and ethical practice. “

“There are very few experienced psychedelic-assisted psychotherapists in Australia, and the team we are assembling includes many of the most experienced practitioners in the country.”

Pivotal point in IHL’s journey

IHL is at an advanced stage of negotiations over locations in Melbourne with the first model clinic expected to open before the end of 2023.

Once the operation of the model clinic is running smoothly, IHL plans to begin rapid expansion within Australia and overseas, where legislation allows.

“This opportunity is something the IHL team have been working towards for some time now and presents a pivotal point in the journey of the company, turning from pure research into service delivery,” IHL managing director and CEO Joel Latham said.

“The opportunity is to deliver the highest-quality care and make a real difference in people’s lives, alongside substantial and imminent revenue potential.”

He said implementation of Psychedelic Clinics won’t impact development of its core clinical assets and will be run as an IHL-owned subsidiary in parallel.

IHL is currently undergoing a Phase 2 clinical trial for its proprietary psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy program for Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), in a clinical trial program also known as “PsiGAD”.

“Implementation of this strategy will in part provide the platform to allow an accelerated path to commercialisation for our drug assets post clinical success,” he said.

This article was developed in collaboration with Incannex Healthcare, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.

Incannex to open psychedelic clinic’s business with leading Australian experts

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individualized treatment

Risks of Psychedelics for People with Personality Disorders

Published

1 week ago

May 9, 2024

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While psychedelics have shown promise in treating certain mental health conditions, a recent study suggests they may pose risks for individuals with personality disorders. The findings underscore the importance of careful screening and personalized approaches in psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Navigating the Psychedelic Landscape: Potential Risks for Individuals with Personality Disorders

Psychedelics, including substances like psilocybin and LSD, have gained significant traction in recent years for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. However, a recent publication in the Journal of Psychopharmacology has raised concerns about the suitability of these substances for individuals with personality disorders.

The study surveyed individuals who had used psychedelics and who were also diagnosed with personality disorders. A considerable number of respondents reported negative and persistent psychological impacts following their psychedelic experiences. Notably, these included heightened anxiety, paranoia, mood instability, and an exacerbation of existing personality disorder symptoms.

Researchers suggest that the vulnerability of individuals with personality disorders to the adverse effects of psychedelics may stem from pre-existing challenges in emotional regulation, self-identity, and interpersonal relationships. The profound and introspective nature of psychedelic experiences can intensify these issues, potentially leading to psychological distress and symptom aggravation.

This research highlights the critical need for thorough screening and assessment in the context of psychedelic-assisted therapy. It suggests that individuals with personality disorders might require tailored therapeutic approaches and robust support systems to navigate potential risks and to secure safe and positive outcomes.

Why It Matters

The burgeoning interest in psychedelic therapy underscores the necessity to discern both the potential benefits and risks across different demographic groups. This study contributes valuable insights, particularly for clinicians and researchers, stressing the importance of personalized treatment plans and the cautious consideration of individual vulnerabilities when administering psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Potential Implications

The findings from this study emphasize the need for ethical and responsible practices within the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy. There is a pressing requirement for the development of detailed screening protocols that can identify individuals who may be more susceptible to the adverse effects of psychedelics. Furthermore, crafting specialized therapeutic strategies that cater specifically to the needs of individuals with personality disorders is essential for ensuring their safety and overall well-being during and after undergoing psychedelic experiences.

The Bigger Picture

The debate surrounding the therapeutic use of psychedelics is complex, with various factors influencing the suitability of these treatments for different individuals. While there are promising results in general populations, the nuanced needs and potential vulnerabilities of those with personality disorders require careful consideration to prevent harm and maximize therapeutic outcomes. This necessitates ongoing research, improved clinical protocols, and a commitment to patient-centered care in the burgeoning field of psychedelic medicine.

Source: Science Alert

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antidepressants

Treating Depression: Psychedelics vs. Antidepressants

Published

1 week ago

May 9, 2024

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Recent research suggests that psychedelics and traditional antidepressants, while both potentially effective in treating depression, work through distinct mechanisms. Understanding these differences could lead to more personalized and effective treatment approaches. Psychedelics vs. Antidepressants: What are the key differences?

Unlocking the Mysteries of Depression Treatment: Psychedelics vs. Antidepressants

The quest for effective depression treatments continues to be a significant focus in mental health research. Traditional antidepressants, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have been a mainstay in treatment, prescribed widely despite varying efficacy among individuals and often accompanying unwanted side effects. In contrast, psychedelics have recently garnered attention for their rapid and enduring antidepressant effects observed in clinical trials.

A recent study has delved into the distinct mechanisms of action of SSRIs and psychedelics, illuminating how they uniquely influence the brain and potentially alleviate symptoms of depression. SSRIs primarily increase serotonin levels in the brain, which is believed to enhance mood and diminish depressive symptoms. However, this process can require several weeks to manifest noticeable effects, and not all patients respond favorably to SSRIs.

Conversely, psychedelics such as psilocybin, found in “magic mushrooms,” operate through a different mechanism. Research indicates that psilocybin’s antidepressant effects are not directly due to elevated serotonin levels. Instead, psilocybin is thought to promote neuroplasticity, the brain’s capacity to reorganize and form new neuronal connections. This heightened neuroplasticity may facilitate more adaptable thought patterns and an improved ability to process emotions, contributing to the rapid and sustained antidepressant effects seen in clinical trials.

Moreover, the study examined the role of the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor, a primary target for both SSRIs and psychedelics. While SSRIs inhibit this receptor’s activity, psychedelics activate it. Intriguingly, blocking the 5-HT2A receptor did not reduce psilocybin’s antidepressant effects, suggesting that its therapeutic benefits originate from other pathways.

Psychedelics vs. Antidepressants: Why It Matters?

Understanding the distinct mechanisms by which psychedelics and antidepressants affect the brain is crucial for the development of more personalized and effective treatment strategies for depression. This knowledge could lead to enhanced patient selection for specific treatments, reducing trial and error while optimizing outcomes. Furthermore, exploring the unique properties of psychedelics may pave the way for novel antidepressant medications that are quicker acting and have fewer side effects.

Potential Implications

This research could catalyze a shift in depression treatment paradigms, moving from a one-size-fits-all approach to more targeted therapies. By pinpointing the specific mechanisms that underlie different antidepressant interventions, clinicians can customize treatment plans based on individual patient profiles and needs. This personalized approach could improve treatment success rates and enhance the quality of life for individuals battling depression.

What Next?

While the study of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes is still in its nascent stages, the initial findings are promising and suggest that psychedelics may offer a valuable addition to the arsenal of tools for combating depression and other mental health conditions.

Source: Neuroscience News

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5-MeO-DMT

Mike Tyson Credits Psychedelics for His Recovery

Published

1 week ago

May 9, 2024

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Boxing legend Mike Tyson attributes his remarkable recovery from physical and mental health challenges, as well as his return to the boxing ring, to the therapeutic use of psychedelics.

From Champion to Advocate: Mike Tyson’s Psychedelic Journey to Healing and Comeback

Mike Tyson, the former heavyweight champion renowned for his formidable boxing style and tumultuous personal life, has recently become a vocal advocate for the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. He credits these substances with playing a pivotal role in his recovery from physical ailments, addiction, and mental health struggles, ultimately paving the way for his return to boxing.

Tyson’s journey with psychedelics began with his exploration of psilocybin mushrooms, commonly referred to as “magic mushrooms.” He describes profound experiences that led to personal insights, emotional healing, and a renewed sense of purpose. These transformative experiences inspired him to incorporate other psychedelics, such as DMT (dimethyltryptamine) and 5-MeO-DMT (5-methoxy-dimethyltryptamine), into his wellness regimen.

The therapeutic effects of psychedelics have gained increasing recognition in recent years, with research suggesting their potential to effectively treat various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Tyson’s personal experiences align with these findings, as he reports significant improvements in his mental well-being, including reduced anxiety and a heightened sense of inner peace.

In addition to mental health benefits, Tyson also attributes his physical recovery to the use of psychedelics. He asserts that these substances have helped alleviate chronic pain resulting from injuries sustained during his extensive boxing career. This pain relief, coupled with the mental clarity and motivation he gained, enabled him to return to training and eventually step back into the ring for exhibition matches.

Tyson’s advocacy for psychedelics extends beyond his personal experiences. He has invested in psychedelic research and companies, aiming to promote awareness and access to these potentially life-changing substances. His openness about his own journey has helped reduce stigma surrounding psychedelic use and has sparked broader conversations about their therapeutic potential.

Why It Matters

Mike Tyson’s story illuminates the growing recognition of psychedelics as valuable therapeutic tools. His celebrity status and candidness in sharing his experiences contribute to the destigmatization of these substances and encourage further research into their benefits. As more public figures like Tyson come forward, the public perception of psychedelics is evolving, paving the way for increased acceptance and accessibility.

Potential Implications

Tyson’s advocacy, coupled with ongoing research, could contribute to the broader acceptance of psychedelics in mainstream medicine. This may lead to the expanded availability of psychedelic-assisted therapy for various mental and physical health conditions. As the stigma surrounding psychedelics diminishes, more individuals may explore their therapeutic potential, leading to advancements in mental health treatment and a deeper understanding of human consciousness.

The Bigger Picture

The use of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes dates back centuries in various cultures around the world. Modern research is rediscovering and validating the potential of these substances to treat a range of conditions. However, it’s important to note that psychedelic experiences can be intense and should be approached with caution and ideally under professional guidance.

Source: The Sportster

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