Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)

"The updated opinions expressed by the FDA in response to the FDRR demonstrate a willingness to recognize the value of high-quality data on the risks and potential benefits of the already-occurring widespread use of cannabis for managing PTSD. Removing barriers to research is a key part of MAPS’ mission, and we are glad to have negotiated a resolution to these long-standing obstacles in cannabis research to support all future cannabis researchers." -Allison Coker, Ph.D. Cannabis holds promise for treating PTSD, yet regulatory barriers have long hindered researchers’ ability to conduct key studies on its safety and effectiveness. Allison Coker, Ph.D., MAPS’ Director of Cannabis Research, emphasizes the importance of filling this gap with high-quality data reflecting real-world use. Learn more using the link below: https://lnkd.in/gR3nHfZD

MAPS is now on Bluesky! We're expanding the conversation to bring you closer to pivotal updates in psychedelic research, policy, and culture. At MAPS, we are deeply committed to public education as a cornerstone of our mission. By sharing knowledge, fostering transparency, and sparking thoughtful dialogue, we aim to educate individuals and communities to better understand the transformative potential of psychedelics. Follow us on Bluesky to join the conversation and be part of a movement dedicated to creating lasting change in mental health! https://lnkd.in/gqRmFeuv

Cannabis holds promise for treating PTSD, yet regulatory barriers have long hindered researchers’ ability to conduct key studies on its safety and effectiveness. Allison Coker, Ph.D., MAPS’ Director of Cannabis Research, emphasizes the importance of filling this gap with high-quality data reflecting real world use. This important study will tackle unresolved questions about the risks and benefits of cannabis use for PTSD. By challenging outdated regulatory frameworks, MAPS secured FDA clearance to conduct this study after years of negotiation. MAPS’ efforts are not just advancing cannabis science but also creating opportunities for future researchers to explore innovative treatments for PTSD and other serious conditions. Learn more using the link below: https://lnkd.in/gR3nHfZD

As featured in Marijuana Moment, the FDA has approved a landmark clinical trial sponsored by MAPS to evaluate smoked cannabis as a treatment for PTSD in Veterans. “These data are critical to inform patients, medical providers, and adult-use consumers when considering cannabis in treatment plans for the management of PTSD, pain, and other serious health conditions. Yet regulatory obstacles have historically made it difficult or impossible to conduct meaningful research on the safety and effectiveness of cannabis products typically consumed in regulated markets.”, MAPS stated. Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/gNWn-PcR

After more than three years of tireless effort and five rounds of pushback from FDA, MAPS has won a Formal Dispute Resolution Request (FDRR) with the FDA’s Division of Psychiatry — the same Division that rejected Lykos’ New Drug Application for MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD. This victory has finally cleared the path for MJP2, a groundbreaking clinical trial that will study the effects of smoked (and potentially vaporized) cannabis on PTSD symptoms in 320 veterans, funded by a $12.9 million grant to MAPS from the State of Michigan’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency. Through persistent, evidence-based disputes, MAPS received clearance to conduct the first clinical trial that will study cannabis as a treatment in a way that reflects real-world cannabis use. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/g8qNq4zm

How do public perceptions influence the future of psychedelics? In a world where psychedelics are simultaneously overhyped and misunderstood, a lack of clarity about public opinion creates challenges for education, policy, and integration. In this talk, Imran Khan and Taylor West reveal findings from the Berkeley Psychedelic Survey that highlight the paradox: while nearly half of voters recently heard about psychedelics, two-thirds still feel they’re “not for them.” Bridging this gap between awareness and acceptance requires thoughtful communication and education. View the full conversation and more insights into public perceptions on psychedelics by tuning into The Virtual Trip! https://lnkd.in/gNJykqkn

Eighty-six years ago, Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann synthesized Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), a compound that would go on to transform the field of psychedelic science. Initially set aside, LSD was rediscovered years later when Hofmann, guided by intuition, decided to revisit it. This unexpected encounter revealed its remarkable effects and opened the door to a new era in understanding consciousness. ???Celebrate this anniversary with 15% off books from the MAPS store exploring the revolutionary work of Albert Hofmann??? maps.org/store

In today's MAPS Bulletin, "Terence McKenna’s Alien Dreamtime," cultural anthropologist Graham St John, Ph.D., unearths an untold chapter in Terence McKenna’s life with Alien Dreamtime, a landmark rave event that cemented McKenna's voice within the electronic music scene. A multimedia spectacle held in San Francisco, Alien Dreamtime brought McKenna’s visionary musings to the rave generation, blending techno-ambient sounds with psychedelic insights that resonated with a new wave of seekers. This story shows McKenna’s unexpected role as a 'cyberdelic trip-sitter,' bridging rave culture and psychedelic philosophy. ???Let us know your thoughts??? https://lnkd.in/gy8jYycW

Featured in Nature Mental Health, the article “Psychedelic therapies: healing for the wrong reasons?” critically examines the recent FDA decision against approving MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD. By examining the regulatory limitations and cognitive biases that influence such decisions, the authors reveal a disconnect between how psychedelics function and how current standards assess them. Highlighting the FDA's narrow focus on evaluating drug-only efficacy, they argue that a comprehensive approach which includes the therapeutic setting and cultural context is essential to enable the creation of appropriate oversight and infrastructure for the safe and effective use of psychedelic treatments in mental health care. Let us know your thoughts?? Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/grcEZRpn

The New York Times described Holotropic Breathwork as “heart-opening” and a way to heal yourself and improve mood. Its therapeutic benefits can include releasing and healing trauma, improving anxiety and depression, higher insights of spiritual understanding, increased connection to self and others, and opening to compassion and love. Join Dr. Laurane McGlynn and Grof Legacy Lineage Facilitators for a transformative Holotropic Breathwork workshop where you can connect with a compassionate community and explore deeper layers of self-understanding. Learn more and register using the link below?? https://lnkd.in/g63Mqnfa Please contact [email protected] if you have any questions?