Potential psychedelics could potentially alter the brain structure after a stroke
In an exciting development, scientists at Canadian company Algernon Pharmaceuticals are exploring the potential use of DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine), a psychoactive compound found in ayahuasca, as a treatment for strokes, particularly ischemic stroke. This research, currently in its early stages, is focused on confirming the safety and investigating the potential therapeutic benefits of DMT.
The potential of DMT in this context lies in its pharmacological action, primarily as an agonist of the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor. This receptor activity is known to induce neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize synaptic connections—which could be crucial for recovery after strokes. Psychedelic compounds like DMT have been shown to promote structural and functional changes in neural circuits, enhancing cognitive flexibility and potentially aiding brain repair mechanisms.
While much of this research has focused on mental health conditions, the neuroplastic effects of DMT raise the possibility that it might reduce damage or improve recovery in ischemic brain injury. The micro-dose of DMT planned for Phase 1 of the trials should be too small to trigger hallucinations, making it a promising candidate for stroke treatment.
If the first phase of trials is successful, regulators may approve the more widespread usage of the treatment. In the second and third phases of the trial, Algernon hopes to continue DMT treatments over the short and long term to prove the efficacy of the treatment.
It is important to note that strokes are a significant health issue. They are the fifth most common cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S. Only 10% of stroke survivors recover almost completely, and doctors can currently only offer treatment after a stroke occurs. In the United States, someone experiences a stroke every 40 seconds, and 80% of strokes are preventable.
The editor's note suggests that there are hidden causes and preventive measures for strokes that have not been widely discussed. For those interested, an article titled "The Stroke Syndrome: 5 Signs it's Stalking You - Plus the Hidden Causes and Preventive Measures You've Never Heard About!" is recommended for further reading.
In the ambulance, EMTs may administer DMT almost immediately to stroke victims to potentially minimise brain damage. Researchers hope DMT can support the brain's natural rewiring process and potentially speed up recovery for stroke victims. This new approach represents a novel therapeutic approach beyond current treatments, offering hope for stroke survivors and their families.
[1] Algernon Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2021). DMT for Stroke: Phase 1 Clinical Trials to Investigate Safety and Potential Therapeutic Benefits. Retrieved from https://www.algernonpharmaceuticals.com/dmt-for-stroke-phase-1-clinical-trials-to-investigate-safety-and-potential-therapeutic-benefits/
[2] Carhart-Harris, R. L., Erritzoe, D., Williams, T., Leech, R., Malizia, A., Murphy, K., ... & Nutt, D. (2016). Psilocybin for depression: a randomised controlled trial. Lancet Psychiatry, 3(7), 619-627.
[4] MacLean, K. A., & Carhart-Harris, R. L. (2016). The default mode network, psychedelics, and the therapeutic potential of psilocybin for depression and anxiety. Neuropsychopharmacology, 41(1), 26-36.
The research on DMT, a psychoactive compound, by Algernon Pharmaceuticals, could extend beyond mental health conditions to neurological disorders like ischemic stroke. If successful, DMT, which is known for promoting neuroplasticity, might offer a novel treatment approach for stroke survivors.
In the ongoing Phase 1 trials, a micro-dose of DMT is being administered to investigate its safety and potential therapeutic benefits for ischemic stroke, with a goal to minimize brain damage and support recovery.
