Three psychedelics substances including MDMA, psilocybin, and ketamine have been given breakthrough designations in clinical trial approval processes by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These three psychedelics represent three distinct 'classes' of psychedelics: phenethylamines (MDMA), tryptamines (psilocybin), and arylcyclohexylamines (ketamine). Ketamine has since been legally approved with MDMA and psilocybin projected for approval in the near future. 

Breakthrough psychedelics takes the learner on a journey into the re-emerging world of psychedelic therapies. The course begins with an orientation to pharmacology, psychedelic science, and contexts of psychedelic use. This is followed by a detailed overview of the three psychedelic frontrunners or 'breakthrough substances' in medical research. Namely, the phenethylamine MDMA, the tryptamine psilocybin, and the dissociative ketamine. Finally, the course concludes with a deeper look into comparative pharmacology, elements of psychedelic use that support safety and optimal outcomes, along with a speculative exploration into the possibility of combining psychedelic substances.

Course Syllabus

The course is structured into bite size modules ranging from 5-30 minutes each, allowing the learner to take things piece by piece or go directly to sections of interest.

I. Introduction to Psychedelics

What are Psychedelics?
Breakthrough Psychedelics
Psychedelics and Mental Illness
Psychedelics and Physical Illness
Psychedelic Neurobiology
Introduction to Use Context

II. Overview of Psychedelic Pharmacology

Core Principles
Pharmacodynamics
Pharmacokinetics
Drug Interaction
Tolerance and Addiction Potential

III. MDMA

Introduction to MDMA
Pharmacodynamics and Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism
Potential Uses and Indications
Safety and Adverse Effects
Toxicology of Ecstasy
Drug Interaction Potential

IV. Psilocybin

Introduction to Psilocybin
Pharmacodynamics and Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism
Mystical Experience
Potential Uses and Indications
Safety and Adverse Effects
Drug Interaction Potential

V. Ketamine

Introduction to Ketamine
Pharmacodynamics and Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism
Potential Uses and Indications
Safety and Adverse Effects
Drug Interaction Potential

VI. Psychedelic Healing and Comparative Pharmacology

Comparative Pharmacology: MDMA, Psilocybin, Ketamine
Designing a Healing Path
Self or Home Use
Ritual Use
Psychedelic Assisted Therapy
The Psychedelic - Psychotropic Interface
Combinations of MDMA, Psilocybin, and Ketamine