a fascinating in-depth of all psychedelic drugs

Dr Nutt's vast knowledge of this subject dismisses many urban legends about psychedelic drugs. He reads his book very well it was worth the time to listen to the book.

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A good overview of the state of psychedelic research 2023

Dr Nutt is one of those at the forefront of UK and indeed global psychedelic research, so he's a good guide to take us through what's what in the field. I really enjoyed hearing him read the book - he's got a great voice. It's necessarily a fairly shallow overview - because the subject is vast, but he handles it well.

Rather than the personal exploration of Michael Pollan's fantastic How to Change Your Mind, the book is rather more scientific in its approach. He does sprinkle in some anecdotes from test subjects however to spice things up.

My one criticism is that it might already be a bit dated (he field fast moving). But then you can listen to his podcast Drug Science for the latest information. For example, in this book he says there is very little evidence about the efficacy of micro dosing, but he interviews Dr. Suresh Muthukumaraswamy on his his podcast, a scientist whose research suggests there might be something in it.

Recommend.

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Very good overview on psychedelics.

Really good overview on psychedelics. Based on science but understandable also for lay people.

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interesting listen for an entrepreurial-minded individual

Considering Steve Jobs dropped acid, I figured it could be a good idea to explore the idea as one of the many people on this planet (and not on mars yet) looking to do impactful and meaningful work with his career.

I feel David's book gives a good foundation to make the choice of whether or not it is the right choice for you amongst other thought-altering substances.

In my opinion, hence, it is worth the time investment to read.

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Great summery

Easy to follow. Extremely relevant. Great reminder of the urgent need to put patient needs at the centre of drug-law reforms.

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Informative and honest summary of latest evidence

I really enjoyed this book; the history, the science and the politics. Prof Nutt has made this subject informative and accessible. I will probably buy a hard copy so I can dip in and out of the more complex chapters. The science behind psychedelics’ impact on mental health is fascinating and it would be great if government policy changed, psychedelics were regulated and implemented into health regimes for patient benefit. The potential is so exciting.

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Psychedelic Renaissance

For 50 years psychedelics like magic mushrooms, LSD, DMT and Mescaline have been classified as ‘schedule 1’ ie. Dangerous with no medical benefit. In this clear and enlightening book, Prof. Nutt explains the new Science behind psychedelic research, and how psychedelics are transforming psychiatry and psychotherapy in the treatment of depression, PTSD, alcoholism, cluster headaches and fear of death in the terminally I’ll.

He describes the mode of action of the classic psychedelics in the brain on the 5-HT 2a receptor, as well as the areas of the brain most affected forming the Default Mode Network, and goes on to to include the ‘non classical’ psychedelics, such as Ketamine, Ibogaine, Muscimol and MDMA and their neuroscience and uses. The book also includes a chapter on microdosing.

This is a deeply honest book, based on research evidence, and Prof Nutt, who narrates it throughout, makes an impassioned plea for politicians and law makers to replace prejudice and propaganda with evidence, education and science in formulating drug policy for the future. IMHO this book is an important manual for those wishing to understand the greatest step forward in psychiatry in a lifetime.

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One of the most interesting books I ever listened to. Kept me gripped and coming back again and again

Loved this book, I’ve recommended it to everyone I meet. So interesting to understand what and how the brain works

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Fantastic research

This book shows an amazing insight into how psychedelics can treat many conditions. It also dispels the urban myth about microdosing as there is no real scientific evidence it works. A full adult dose is used alongside trained therapists.

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Calmly and steadily presented, with evidence

David Nutt has an unassuming, earnest approach and puts his cases forward calmly, relying on the listener to be open minded and observe the evidence. A very good listen.

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