Particular person neurons are labeled with fluorescent proteins utilizing the brainbow method. In researching psychedelics and ketamine, researchers purpose to grasp how medication like psychedelics and ketamine may enhance the variety of connections between neurons.
Sergi Reboredo/VW Pics/Common Pictures Group through Getty Pictures
cover caption
toggle caption
Sergi Reboredo/VW Pics/Common Pictures Group through Getty Pictures
Particular person neurons are labeled with fluorescent proteins utilizing the brainbow method. In researching psychedelics and ketamine, researchers purpose to grasp how medication like psychedelics and ketamine may enhance the variety of connections between neurons.
Sergi Reboredo/VW Pics/Common Pictures Group through Getty Pictures
This week on NPR’s Quick Wave podcast, we’re diving into the science behind medication like psychedelics and ketamine.
Thus far, we have heard from scientists making an attempt to untangle the consequences of the “journey” that always comes with these medication from the methods they could change the human mind.
Some researchers level out that the journey makes the medication inaccessible for some sufferers. For instance, sufferers with a historical past of bipolar dysfunction or schizophrenia cannot take psychedelics or ketamine. Others might merely not need to journey or have out-of-body experiences in any respect.
In each circumstances, a non-hallucinogenic drug may assist bridge the therapy hole. So corporations like Delix Therapeutics are making new medication impressed by psychedelics — with out the journey.
However there are nonetheless questions throughout the discipline about what side of those medication is most essential for sufferers. Some researchers emphasize the significance of the experiential journey part of psychedelics. Others are optimistic that non-hallucinogenic medication might widen therapy choices for sufferers.
Take heed to the primary episode of the sequence right here and the second episode right here. Catch the remainder of this sequence on psychedelics and associated medication this week by following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Produce other questions on psychedelics and the mind? Tell us by emailing shortwave@npr.org!
This episode was produced by Hannah Chinn. It was edited by Rebecca Ramirez and Geoff Brumfiel. Tyler Jones checked the details. Maggie Luthar was the audio engineer. Particular because of Jon Hamilton.