Christian Angermayer, founder of Apeiron Investments, discusses psychedelics in Oregon, the spiritual experience of a 'trip', FDA approval progress, societal acceptance, new approach to ageing, breakthrough in life span, AI dovetails with psychedelics and longevity.
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Quick takeaways
Psychedelics have shown promise in treating mental health issues and promoting personal growth and self-reflection.
Advancements in AI-driven research are accelerating the discovery of solutions for extending human lifespan and healthspan.
The evolving societal perceptions and acceptance of off-label uses are influencing the broader availability of drugs for various purposes and personalized healthcare approaches.
Deep dives
The Potential of Psychedelics for Mental Health Treatment
Psychedelics, such as magic mushrooms, have shown promising results in treating mental health issues like depression, anxiety, addiction, and PTSD. These substances can create profound spiritual and mystical experiences, which have been found to be therapeutic in various mental health conditions. Studies, including those conducted by companies like Compass Pathways, are progressing towards FDA approval for the use of psychedelics in mental health treatment. The therapy sessions involving psychedelics are structured and conducted by trained professionals, ensuring a safe and guided experience for patients. The potential benefits of psychedelics extend beyond defined mental health diagnoses, as they offer individuals the opportunity for personal growth, self-reflection, and a deeper understanding of themselves.
The Quest for Longevity and the Interconnectedness of Sciences
Scientists are exploring the hallmarks of aging, which include metabolic dysfunction, stem cell exhaustion, and senescent cells, among others. By targeting and addressing these hallmarks, researchers hope to develop therapies and interventions that can extend both lifespan and healthspan. Technological advancements, supported by AI-driven research, are accelerating the discovery of solutions for age-related issues. While achieving immortality may not be feasible, there is increasing optimism regarding significant improvements in human lifespan and health in the coming decades. The intersection of longevity research with other scientific fields like AI, psychedelics, and brain-computer interfaces holds promise for transformative breakthroughs in human existence and reimagining the boundaries of what it means to age.
The Changing Landscape of Biotech and Off-Label Drug Use
The biotech industry is experiencing a shift towards broader treatment approaches and a focus on drugs with potential off-label use. Medications like Ozempic, originally intended for treating clinical obesity and diabetes, have shown additional benefits in weight management and associated conditions. The recognition of off-label uses and lifestyle drugs has contributed to market growth and increased revenue for pharmaceutical companies. The evolving societal perceptions, including the embrace of transgender rights and the importance of personal choice, have influenced the acceptance and wider availability of drugs for various purposes. This shift highlights the need for more personalized healthcare approaches and the potential for medications to cater to a broader range of conditions beyond their initial intended uses.
The Three Steps of Psychedelic Therapy: Prep, Session, and Post Integration
Psychedelic therapy consists of three essential steps: preparation, the therapeutic session, and post-integration. The preparation involves getting ready for the session by working with a therapist and understanding the potential deep and profound effects of psychedelics. The therapeutic session itself is accompanied by a therapist, allowing for a transformative and potentially sustainable change in one's life. Finally, post-integration involves spending several hours after the session to integrate the insights gained during the experience into daily life. The role of a therapist in this process is crucial to ensure a successful and beneficial outcome.
The Rising Interest in Psychedelics and the Potential of Psychedelic Therapeutics
Psychedelics are gaining traction due to their potential in addressing mental health issues. With the growing rates of depression, anxiety, and addiction in our society, psychedelics offer a unique solution. Traditional Western medicine has focused on treating symptoms or diseases, but now the focus is shifting towards holistic healing and enhancing overall well-being. Psychedelics are at the forefront of this movement, providing a horizon for curing mental health issues. Additionally, as our society evolves and the need for physical labor decreases with AI and automation, there is an increasing acceptance and exploration of psychedelics and other enhancers, such as longevity treatments and cognitive enhancements. These innovations aim to improve and optimize human performance and well-being in a changing world.
The Sunday Times' tech correspondent Danny Fortson brings on Christian Angermayer, founder of Apeiron Investments, to talk about psychedelics in Oregon (4:15), the spiritual experience of a “trip” (11:30), progressing toward the first FDA approval (15:30), how this will be introduced into the market (21:10), why having a qualified guide/therapist is critical (25:30), gaining societal acceptance (30:20), why he funded the longevity XPrize (34:20), the new approach to ageing (41:00), why we are on the cusp of a breakthrough in life span (42:30), the Ozempic effect (49:00, thriving in a toxic society (56:20), and how AI dovetails with psychedelics and longevity (1:01:50).
