3034 results for "Psilocybin"
Effects of psilocybin therapy on personality structure
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica – June 19, 2018
Summary
Psilocybin therapy significantly alters personality traits in patients with treatment-resistant depression. In a study of 20 participants, neuroticism scores dropped while extraversion increased, aligning with normative data. Openness also rose notably, while conscientiousness showed slight improvement and agreeableness remained unchanged. These effects were linked to the level of insight gained during the psilocybin experience. The findings suggest that psychedelics may induce unique personality changes compared to traditional antidepressants, warranting further investigation into the underlying brain mechanisms.
Abstract
Objective To explore whether psilocybin with psychological support modulates personality parameters in patients suffering from treatment‐resistant ...
Rostral Anterior Cingulate Thickness Predicts the Emotional Psilocybin Experience
Biomedicines – February 18, 2020
Summary
The anterior cingulate cortex's thickness strongly predicts emotional responses to the hallucinogen psilocybin. Among 55 healthy adults receiving oral psilocybin (0.160 or 0.215 mg/kg), greater rostral anterior cingulate thickness predicted all four emotional sub-scales of altered consciousness. This neuroscience insight, crucial for psychology and serotonergic drug studies, reveals how individual brain structure in the cingulate cortex influences cognition and subjective experiences with psychedelics. It underscores the importance of 5-HT receptor activity, linked to serotonin, beyond the posterior cingulate.
Abstract
Psilocybin is the psychoactive compound of mushrooms in the psilocybe species. Psilocybin directly affects a number of serotonin receptors, with hi...
Psilocybin in the treatment of eating disorders: a systematic review of the literature and registered clinical trials
Eating and Weight Disorders - Studies on Anorexia Bulimia and Obesity – July 29, 2025
Summary
With Fluoxetine the only pharmacological treatment approved for Bulimia Nervosa, and no drugs for other eating disorders like Anorexia Nervosa, new options are crucial. A systematic review of medicine and psychiatry literature, including the Cochrane Library, reveals promising early insights into psilocybin. One open-label clinical trial involving 10 individuals with Anorexia Nervosa, plus a single case report, suggests this psychedelic might be safe and well-tolerated. Six additional registered clinical trials are underway, exploring psilocybin's potential in these challenging behaviors.
Abstract
Abstract Background Fluoxetine remains the only pharmacological treatment approved for Bulimia Nervosa, and no other drugs have been approved for e...
Negative affective bias in depression following treatment with psilocybin or escitalopram – a secondary analysis from a randomized trial
Translational Psychiatry – November 13, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin and escitalopram both shifted emotional processing towards a more positive outlook in depressed individuals. In a trial with 30 psilocybin recipients and 29 escitalopram recipients, both therapies comparably reduced negative facial bias. While this immediate change didn't directly correlate with concurrent depression improvements, a long-term decrease in misclassifying positive faces as negative was associated with lower depression scores at week-10, specifically for the escitalopram group. This suggests overlapping cognitive mechanisms across these distinct treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Recent clinical trial data suggests that ratings on depression scales are lowered after psilocybin therapy compared to placebo, though it ...
Improved mental health outcomes and normalised spontaneous EEG activity in veterans reporting a history of traumatic brain injuries following participation in a psilocybin retreat
Frontiers in Psychiatry – August 06, 2025
Summary
Veterans with brain injuries saw remarkable improvements in mental health after psilocybin retreats. Among 21 participants, depression scores plummeted by 65%, PTSD symptoms decreased by 50%, and anxiety fell by 28%. This hallucinogen, a focus in psychedelics and drug studies, appears to reorganize brain activity. Electroencephalography (EEG) showed improved neural communication, suggesting psilocybin could offer new avenues in psychiatry and clinical psychology, providing a form of medicine for profound psychological well-being.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, has shown therapeutic potential in treating mental health disorders by, amongst the many effec...
Shame, guilt and psychedelic experience: Results from a prospective, longitudinal survey of real-world psilocybin use
OpenAlex – October 14, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, can significantly reduce long-term shame, a critical focus in psychology and psychoanalysis. A study of 679 adults using psilocybin found that while 68.2% experienced acute shame or guilt, 89.7% described their overall experience as positive. This naturalistic insight from Psychedelics and Drug Studies showed a small but sustained decrease in trait shame (Cohen’s dz = 0.37) for many, lasting months. Notably, shame increased for 29.8%. Understanding these social psychology implications could guide psychotherapist strategies and inform Cross-Cultural and Social Analysis.
Abstract
Introduction: The classic psychedelic psilocybin has attracted special interest across clinical and non-clinical settings as a potential tool for m...
Acute and long-term effects of psilocybin on energy balance and feeding behavior in mice
Translational Psychiatry – August 11, 2022
Summary
A single high dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin reduced sucrose preference in mice, hinting at its influence on reward pathways. However, this Neuroscience and Psychiatry investigation found that psilocybin, a key psychedelic, did not improve energy balance or reduce weight in obese mouse models. Neither a single dose nor sub-chronic microdosing affected food intake or body weight. While impacting behavior via neurotransmitter receptors, its utility in metabolic medicine for obesity appears limited, discouraging further clinical exploration in this area of psychology and drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin and other serotonergic psychedelics have re-emerged as therapeutics for neuropsychiatric disorders, including addiction. Psiloc...
Can psilocybin be safely administered under medical supervision? A systematic review of adverse event reporting in clinical trials
Drug Science Policy and Law – January 01, 2022
Summary
Zero clinical trials among 52 publications reported psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, to be unsafe under medical supervision. This systematic review, examining adverse effects and drug tolerability, challenges its Schedule I classification. Twenty-seven trials specifically indicated psilocybin is safe when administered by a medical professional. Such findings, crucial for pharmacology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggest its potential as medicine. These Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies underscore the importance of chemical synthesis and alkaloids in developing new drug treatments.
Abstract
This systematic review investigates whether clinical trials of psilocybin support criterion number three of the drug's schedule I designation: Ther...
Psilocybin: the magic medicine for depression?
BJPsych Open – June 01, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, combined with a psychotherapist's guidance, offers a compelling new treatment for severe depression. This approach in Clinical psychology and Psychiatry suggests psilocybin, an alkaloid from chemical synthesis, influences neurotransmitter receptors, resetting brain networks and reviving emotional responsiveness. The therapeutic context, preparation, and long-term integration are crucial for this Medicine. Despite its promise in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, legal barriers currently hinder widespread use, necessitating systemic change to address global disability from depression.
Abstract
Aims Depression is the single largest contributor to global disability. However, effective treatments are currently lacking, resulting in a signifi...
Enhanced visual contrast suppression during peak psilocybin effects: A psychophysical study
OpenAlex – January 11, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin profoundly alters visual perception, intensifying a phenomenon called surround suppression. Participants (n=6) reported stronger suppression of a visual stimulus's perceived contrast after 25mg of this hallucinogen compared to placebo. This effect, crucial for understanding visual cortex function in psychology, correlated positively with subjective 'visual hallucinations.' This suggests a neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. Given weakened surround suppression in major depressive disorder, these insights into psilocybin's impact on perception offer a compelling avenue for psychedelic therapies.
Abstract
In visual perception, an effect known as surround suppression occurs wherein the apparent contrast of a center stimulus is reduced when it is prese...
Psilocybin in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder: What do we know so far?
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2021
Summary
Promising findings suggest psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, may offer relief for obsessive-compulsive disorder. One open-label clinical trial observed acute reductions in obsessive-compulsive symptoms, sparking interest across psychology and psychiatry. This initial data is encouraging for medicine and clinical psychology, prompting further rigorous clinical trials. These investigations aim to solidify psilocybin's potential in mental health research topics, exploring new therapeutic avenues for psychotherapists and advancing psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin is a naturally occurring plant alkaloid in mushrooms and a prodrug of psilocin. It is a serotonin receptor (5-HT2A) agonist...
The Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of the Use of Psilocybin in the Treatment of Adults with Treatment-Resistant Depression
Emerging Minds Journal for Student Research – January 25, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, effectively treats severe depression, offering new hope in psychiatry. A systematic review and meta-analysis of seven clinical trials, including two randomized controlled trials, found that a 25 mg psilocybin dosing regimen significantly reduced depressive severity. This therapeutic medicine's pharmacology demonstrated 25 mg as superior to 10 mg or 1 mg doses. Drawing from databases like MEDLINE for psychedelics and drug studies, this evidence suggests a promising avenue for mental health care, potentially easing the economic burden of depression.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) has been well-researched within scientific literature, although the therapeutic value of psilocybin is not ful...
The therapeutic potential of psilocybin in depression resistant to psychotropic drugs
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2023
Summary
One or two microdoses (10-25mg) of the hallucinogen psilocybin, combined with psychotherapy, significantly improve symptoms for patients with drug-resistant major depressive disorder for at least six months. This re-emerging area in psychiatry and clinical psychology offers promising new avenues in medicine. Psychedelics, including psilocybin, are being re-evaluated for their therapeutic potential, moving beyond historical drug studies. A psychotherapist's guidance alongside this alkaloid treatment shows optimism for severe depression and anxiety, offering hope where conventional treatments fail.
Abstract
Introduction The use of hallucinogens has accompanied the human being throughout history. In the 1970s, studies focused on the therapeutic potentia...
Behavioural investigations of psilocybin in non-human animals 1962–2021: A scoping review
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – September 11, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveal psilocybin's remarkable safety, showing no biological toxicity even at high doses in pre-clinical research. A review of 77 studies, with 64 investigations predominantly in rodents, highlights its therapeutic potential. This chemical synthesis and alkaloid demonstrates varied effects, from reducing fear at low doses to improving learning. While 22.1% of studies omitted sample sizes, the overall evidence supports psilocybin as a promising agent for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, influencing arousal, aggression, and memory.
Abstract
Abstract Background and Aims Psilocybin is a psychedelic compound that may hold promise for a wide range of human health conditions, yet the identi...
Computational Analysis of Psilocybin Effects on Three-Choice Touchscreen Reversal Learning in Rats: A Pilot Study
Psychedelic Medicine – February 03, 2026
Summary
A compelling finding: Psilocybin, a serotonergic hallucinogen, initially hindered cognitive flexibility. In a touchscreen-based visual discrimination learning task, 16 rats were evaluated for cognition. Only 5 (31%) demonstrated associative learning. Psilocybin (1 mg/kg) impaired short-term learning/unlearning speed, a key aspect of cognitive psychology. Neuroscience indicates potential long-term enhancements, relevant for brain flexibility, impacting developmental psychology, audiology, drug studies, pain management, forensic toxicology, and psychedelics' complex effects.
Abstract
Introduction: Cognitive flexibility is essential for behavioral adaptation in response to environmental changes and is impaired in various neuropsy...
Psilocybin Impairs Short-Term Cognitive Flexibility but Indicates Long-Term Benefits in a Rodent Three-Choice Reversal Learning Task
OpenAlex – February 27, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin initially impaired cognitive flexibility in rats, yet showed long-term enhancement. In a **Cognitive psychology** **Task** with 16 rats, **Psilocybin** (1 mg/kg) hindered learning and de-learning speed during the first reversal. However, among the five rats completing all protocols, enhanced learning dynamics emerged in a subsequent reversal, suggesting a delayed benefit for **Cognition**. This nuanced effect on **Flexibility** has implications for **Neuroscience** and **Psychedelics and Drug Studies**, highlighting the complex **Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior** over **time**.
Abstract
IntroductionCognitive flexibility is essential for adapting behavior in response to environmental changes and is implicated in various neuropsychia...
MDMA and psilocybin regulate oligodendrocyte-lineage cell numbers and anxiety-like behaviors in a rat model of fear.
Biological psychiatry – February 03, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin and MDMA significantly reduce fear-related behaviors, acting through brain changes. In a study with 210 rats, these compounds promoted oligodendrocyte plasticity and myelination, crucial for brain function. Psilocybin specifically induced oligodendrogenesis, while MDMA enhanced mature myelin markers. Disrupting myelin abolished the anxiety reduction, highlighting how these psychedelics remodel brain circuitry. This suggests enhancing myelination could boost their therapeutic power for conditions like PTSD.
Abstract
Psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) produce rapid, enduring therapeutic effects in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); howev...
Flashback phenomena after administration of LSD and psilocybin in controlled studies with healthy participants
Psychopharmacology – January 25, 2022
Summary
Reoccurring drug-like experiences after LSD and psilocybin administration occur in up to 9.2% of healthy individuals, with 7.8% for LSD and 8.3% for psilocybin. In a study involving 142 participants across six controlled trials, 13 reported these phenomena, primarily mild and perceived as neutral or pleasant. Flashbacks were mostly visual, lasting seconds to minutes, and occurred shortly after drug use. Notably, none experienced significant distress or impairment in daily life, nor did they meet criteria for hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPPD).
Abstract
Abstract Background LSD and psilocybin are increasingly used in phase I trials and evaluated as therapeutic agents for mental disorders. The phenom...
A single psilocybin dose is associated with long-term increased mindfulness, preceded by a proportional change in neocortical 5-HT2A receptor binding
European Neuropsychopharmacology – March 04, 2020
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin significantly enhances personality Openness and mindfulness, with 10 healthy volunteers showing an average increase in Openness of 4.2 points and mindfulness scores rising by 0.5 after three months. Despite no overall change in cerebral 5-HT2AR binding, a negative correlation emerged between changes in mindfulness and 5-HT2AR levels, suggesting individual variability may influence long-term effects. These findings highlight psilocybin's potential as a transformative treatment in psychology and internal medicine, particularly for enhancing mindfulness.
Abstract
A single dose of the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) agonist psilocybin can have long-lasting beneficial effects on mood, personality, and potentia...
Is there more to magic mushrooms than psilocybin?
C&EN Global Enterprise – October 20, 2025
Summary
In a Vancouver facility, researchers can produce enough psilocybin mushrooms to provide hallucinogenic experiences for 80,000 people annually. Unlike typical black-market operations, these mushrooms are cultivated for clinical trials aimed at treating conditions like depression and OCD. While synthetic psilocybin has dominated past studies, emerging evidence suggests that the natural compounds in magic mushrooms may enhance therapeutic effects. This shift could redefine our understanding of psychedelics, blending psychology, art history, and psychoanalysis to unlock their full potential for mental health treatment.
Abstract
In a suburb of Vancouver, Canada, a nondescript three-story building sits alongside a strip of parking lots. From the outside, it looks like an ord...
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Psilocybin for the Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Online Publication Service of Würzburg University (Würzburg University) – January 01, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin shows promising potential as a treatment for severe, treatment-resistant Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), with symptom reductions ranging from 23% to complete remission in participants. In a randomized controlled trial involving multiple doses, improvements persisted for weeks to months post-treatment, particularly with higher doses linked to more profound mystical experiences. Notably, no severe side effects were reported. This highlights psilocybin's ability to address chronic OCD, offering hope for those unresponsive to traditional cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressants.
Abstract
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a prevalent mental disorder, with a lifetime prevalence of 2-3%, characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsess...
Psilocybin occasioned mystical-type experiences: immediate and persisting dose-related effects.
Psychopharmacology – December 01, 2011
Summary
Experiencing profound awe can lead to lasting personal growth. A double-blind investigation explored how varying doses of psilocybin impact such experiences and their enduring benefits. Participants received different amounts of the compound in a supportive setting. Findings revealed that higher doses (20-30 mg) frequently induced mystical-type experiences (72% of volunteers) and, a month later, were rated as highly significant, leading to sustained positive changes in mood, attitudes, and behavior. These benefits persisted for 14 months, even noted by community observers. Lower doses also showed significant effects. This suggests psilocybin, under the right conditions, can occasion powerful, positive, and lasting personal transformations.
Abstract
This dose-effect study extends previous observations showing that psilocybin can occasion mystical-type experiences having persisting positive effe...
Psilocybin's lasting action requires pyramidal cell types and 5-HT2A receptors.
Nature – June 01, 2025
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin can create lasting changes in specific brain cells, offering hope for stress-related mental health treatments. The compound works by stimulating growth in crucial brain cell connections, particularly in cells that project to deeper brain regions. This process requires specific serotonin receptors and leads to improved stress responses in mice.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a serotonergic psychedelic with therapeutic potential for treating mental illnesses1-4. At the cellular level, psychedelics induce st...
Psilocybin and chronic neuropathic pain: a systematic review
Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine – August 05, 2024
Summary
The alkaloid psilocybin holds encouraging potential for chronic pain management, including neuropathic pain. A review of 28 studies suggests its role in medicine and psychiatry, influencing neurotransmitter receptors for pain relief. While 76.2% of studies were low quality, some moderate evidence points to a 0.14 mg/kg dose. This emerging field of psychedelics and drug studies offers new avenues for pain management in psychology, despite current limitations.
Abstract
Background/Importance Chronic pain affects many people globally, requiring alternative management strategies. Psilocybin is gaining attention for i...
Psilocybin’s effects on cognition and creativity: A scoping review
Journal of Psychopharmacology – July 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, reveals complex effects on human cognition and creativity, a significant focus in clinical psychology. A review of 42 studies, primarily healthy adults (90%), shows that acute macrodoses of this synthesized chemical often impaired cognitive performance. However, microdoses tended to enhance creativity. The neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior appears time-dependent; while initial impairment was observed, some positive effects emerged days later, hinting at developmental psychology implications from these psychedelic drug studies.
Abstract
Background: Research on psilocybin has become increasingly popular during the current psychedelic renaissance, which began in the early 1990s. Psil...
DARK Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: Psilocybin
ACS Chemical Neuroscience – June 29, 2018
Summary
A compelling finding in modern medicine is the remarkable therapeutic potential of psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen. Preliminary psychology and psychiatry studies indicate its promise for treating diverse conditions, including alcohol addiction, tobacco addiction, obsessive compulsive disorder, major depressive disorder, and depression in terminally ill cancer patients. This naturally occurring compound, chemically synthesized by Albert Hofmann, influences neurotransmitter receptors, opening new avenues in neuroscience and pharmacology. Its resurgence in psychedelics and drug studies highlights its importance for medicine.
Abstract
Psilocybin is found in a family of mushrooms commonly known as "magic mushrooms" that have been used throughout history to induce hallucinations. I...
Considerations and cautions for the integration of psilocybin into routine clinical care: a consensus statement from the US National Network of Depression Centers' Task Group on Psychedelics and Related Compounds
EClinicalMedicine – September 24, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin offer transformative potential for psychiatric treatment. A US task group, reviewing articles through April 2025, highlights critical gaps in drug studies. They emphasize understanding dosage, efficacy across diverse populations, and long-term safety for these compounds. The field, encompassing chemical synthesis and clinical application, requires diversified funding and standardized training. Addressing these diverse academic research themes ensures careful, ethical progress towards equitable access and integration.
Abstract
The potential for psilocybin, and other psychedelic drugs, to fulfil a much needed and potentially transformative class of psychiatric treatments h...
Psilocybin in neuropsychiatry: a review of its pharmacology, safety, and efficacy
CNS Spectrums – July 11, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen and tryptamine alkaloid, shows significant promise in neuropsychiatry, psychology, and medicine. Its pharmacology involves active metabolites, like psilocin, influencing neurotransmitter receptors to alter behavior, even at doses sufficient to cause hallucinogenic experiences. This class of psychedelics, including Lysergic acid diethylamide, undergoes intense drug studies. Understanding its chemical basis and mechanisms is crucial for its potential as a pharmacotherapy in psychiatry, addressing conditions like addiction and depression, while carefully assessing potential harms.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin is a tryptamine alkaloid found in some mushrooms, especially those of the genus Psilocybe. Psilocybin has four metabolites incl...
Behavioural Investigations of Psilocybin in Animals 1962-2021: A Scoping Review
OpenAlex – January 05, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows a strong safety profile even at high doses, promising therapeutic applications in medicine. A systematic review of 77 studies, spanning nearly 60 years of Psychedelics and Drug Studies (via grey literature and MEDLINE), explored its Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior. Findings in psychology show benefits like reduced fear and improved learning. While 64 studies used rodents and 22.1% omitted sample sizes, its potential, perhaps via mechanisms like those in Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors Study, warrants further exploration.
Abstract
Abstract Background and Aims Psilocybin is a psychedelic drug that may hold promise for a wide range of human health conditions, yet the identifica...
Explore the effect of psilocybin on depression and anxiety
Arts Culture and Language – July 06, 2025
Summary
A compelling finding in clinical psychology suggests psilocybin, a natural hallucinogen, holds promise beyond traditional psychiatry. Preliminary studies involving 30 participants indicated 75% experienced significant relief from cluster headaches. This psychedelic compound is also being explored in psychology for depression treatment, particularly as a preventive measure rather than a direct therapeutic drug. Its potential to revolutionize mental health interventions, perhaps even complementing digital mental health interventions, is gaining traction. The field of psychedelics and drug studies suggests a psychotherapist could guide its use for anxiety and other conditions, offering new avenues for cognitive psychology.
Abstract
Psilocybin, also known as “magic mushrooms,” is naturally found in psychedelic compound from different types of mushrooms. The utility of psilocybi...
Application of psilocybin in mental health disorders
Theoretical and Natural Science – December 20, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows compelling antidepressant potential for anxiety and depression in Psychiatry. This naturally occurring compound, a focus of Psychedelics and Drug Studies, converts rapidly, influencing brain chemistry through neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. Its pharmacology suggests a valuable alternative in Medicine. Early findings reveal long-lasting benefits with minimal side effects, extending its promise beyond anxiety to addiction. This chemical synthesis and alkaloid offers a novel strategy in Psychology, requiring further exploration.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychoactive compound, which has been used for ages in traditional settings for religious and therapeutic use. ...
Assessing Metro Vancouver Residents’ Knowledge and Opinions of Psilocybin
BCIT Environmental Public Health Journal – October 12, 2023
Summary
A critical gap exists in our understanding of Psilocybin, a naturally occurring hallucinogen. While its potential for treating addiction, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorders is gaining attention in Psychiatry and Clinical psychology, comprehensive data on Canadian adult awareness and use is subpar. Despite interest in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, and discussions around its chemical synthesis as an alkaloid, specific numbers on public engagement remain elusive. This lack of foundational Psychology data hinders progress, including potential Digital Mental Health Interventions.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring hallucinogen found in different species of fungi. Psilocybin has gained extensive social popularity and politic...
Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant OCD: A Randomized Controlled Trial
OpenAlex – January 15, 2026
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, dramatically reduced severe obsessive compulsive symptoms. In a randomized controlled trial, 69.2% of 13 adults with treatment-resistant OCD experienced significant symptom reduction within one week, against 0% on niacin. This medicine, a focus in pharmacology and psychedelics studies, showed an impressive effect size (Cohen's d=1.64), with scores decreasing by 9.83 points. While one serious adverse effect occurred, these clinical trial findings in internal medicine and psychiatry suggest a novel approach for a population often struggling with major depressive disorder.
Abstract
Background: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects 2-3% of the population worldwide. 40-60% of patients do not respond to first-line intervent...
MicroRNAs underlying the antidepressant effect of psilocybin – Establishing an nCounter pipeline for microRNA-quantification in the pig brain
OpenAlex – January 12, 2024
Summary
A single Psilocybin dose profoundly impacts brain biology, potentially explaining its antidepressant effects. Using a specialized Neuroscience pipeline, analysis of pig brains revealed 12 microRNAs were dysregulated in the prefrontal cortex and 2 in the hippocampus just one day after administration. Seven days later, 4 microRNAs remained altered in the hippocampus. Notably, 9 of the 18 identified microRNAs, including miR-212-3p and miR-107, are linked to depression. This highlights how Psychedelics influence molecular pathways, offering new insights for mental health and drug development.
Abstract
Abstract Novel treatment strategies are needed to overcome some of the current challenges related to treatment resistance and treatment latency wit...
A Naturalistic Study on the Combined Neural and Psychological Effects of Psilocybin and Compassion Focused Imagery
OpenAlex – December 22, 2025
Summary
A compelling finding: psilocybin, a hallucinogen, combined with compassion-focused guided imagery, creates lasting psychological changes. Among 105 participants, this psychological intervention enhanced self-compassion and cognitive absorption. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) revealed altered organization in brain networks, including the default mode network, impacting cognition and consciousness. These psychedelics and drug studies suggest synergy for clinical psychology, offering psychotherapists new avenues to cultivate empathy, mindfulness, and mental image shifts.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin is a classic psychedelic drug known to alter subjective experience and elicit long-term psychological changes, enhancing cognit...
Psilocybin Microdosing for Anxiety Relief in Young Adults: A Comparative Review of Emerging Evidence
Premier journal of science. – December 03, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin microdosing shows promise for young adults struggling with anxiety, particularly those resistant to traditional therapies. This hallucinogen, an alkaloid, appears to improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms, with some reports suggesting a 30-40% reduction in symptom severity. Its impact on psychology involves modulating serotonin receptors and boosting neural plasticity in brain regions crucial for emotional regulation. While clinical psychology and psychiatry explore these psychedelics, future drug studies might integrate digital mental health interventions, offering a compelling alternative for managing persistent anxiety.
Abstract
Background Anxiety disorders are increasingly prevalent among young adults. Traditional treatment options often fall short, and many patients live ...
Supplementary file 1_Improved mental health outcomes and normalised spontaneous EEG activity in veterans reporting a history of traumatic brain injuries following participation in a psilocybin retreat.docx
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – August 06, 2025
Summary
Veterans struggling with mental illness experienced remarkable improvements following psilocybin retreats. Among 21 participants, depression scores plummeted by 65%, PTSD by 50%, and anxiety by 28%. Electroencephalography revealed brain changes reflecting neuroplasticity, suggesting enhanced emotional regulation and cognitive control. This clinical psychology finding offers a promising path in psychiatry and medicine for mental health, potentially influencing arousal and providing alternatives to typical treatments like Sertraline.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, has shown therapeutic potential in treating mental health disorders by, amongst the many effec...
LPS-Induced Liver Inflammation Is Inhibited by Psilocybin and Eugenol in Mice
Pharmaceuticals – March 23, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin powerfully combats liver inflammation, a key finding from Psychedelics and Drug Studies. In an acute liver injury model, psilocybin (0.88 mg/kg) alone, or combined with eugenol (17.59 mg/kg), significantly reduced pro-inflammatory markers like Tumor necrosis factor alpha. This plant-based medicinal research highlights psilocybin's anti-inflammatory pharmacology, offering new medicine. Its efficacy, distinct from its known influence on tryptophan and brain disorders, even mitigated eugenol's potential adverse effects, suggesting broad therapeutic potential for liver conditions.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Liver inflammatory diseases are a major global health burden and are often exacerbated by inflammation driven by lipopolysac...
Psilocybin therapy for mood dysfunction in Parkinson's disease: an open-label pilot trial.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – April 09, 2025
Summary
In a groundbreaking development, psilocybin therapy shows promise for improving both mental and physical symptoms in Parkinson's disease patients. Twelve participants with mild to moderate Parkinson's received two doses of psilocybin alongside psychotherapy. The treatment proved safe and led to significant improvements in mood, anxiety, motor function, and cognitive performance. Benefits lasted up to three months, with no serious side effects or worsening of Parkinson's symptoms.
Abstract
Mood dysfunction is highly prevalent in Parkinson's disease (PD), a main predictor of functional decline, and difficult to treat-novel intervention...
Acute psilocybin and ketanserin effects on cerebral blood flow: 5-HT2AR neuromodulation in healthy humans.
Journal of cerebral blood flow and metabolism : official journal of the International Society of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism – February 26, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin reduces brain blood flow by 11.6% during peak effects, offering insights into how psychedelics affect brain function. Using arterial spin labelling MRI, researchers compared psilocybin with ketanserin (a blocking agent) in healthy volunteers. Psilocybin significantly narrowed the internal carotid artery and decreased cerebral blood flow, while ketanserin showed minimal effects. These findings help explain how psychedelics influence brain activity.
Abstract
Psilocin, the active metabolite of psilocybin, is a psychedelic and agonist at the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) that has shown positive therapeu...
Efficacy and safety of psilocybin in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): A dose-response network meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials.
Psychiatry research – February 01, 2025
Summary
A single 25mg dose of psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, shows remarkable promise in treating major depressive disorder. Analysis of clinical trials reveals that patients experienced significant mood improvements within 8-15 days after treatment. While higher doses proved most effective as a rapid-acting antidepressant, some participants reported temporary nausea. These findings suggest psilocybin could offer a breakthrough treatment option for those struggling with severe depression.
Abstract
Selecting the optimal dose of psilocybin for treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) is crucial for clini...
Enhanced visual contrast suppression during peak psilocybin effects: Psychophysical results from a pilot randomized controlled trial
Journal of Vision – November 05, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin profoundly alters visual perception, strengthening an effect called surround suppression where a high-contrast background reduces a central image's apparent contrast. A randomized controlled trial with 6 participants found a 25 mg psilocybin dose significantly increased this visual suppression compared to placebo. This finding, relevant to psychology and medicine, illuminates psilocybin's impact on sensory processing. The intensity of subjective psychedelic visuals correlated with this effect, offering insights for Psychedelics and Drug Studies into altered perception—relevant from audiology to paranormal experiences and beliefs—and informing complementary and alternative medicine.
Abstract
In visual perception, an effect known as surround suppression occurs wherein the apparent contrast of a center stimulus is reduced when it is prese...
Comparing Cannabis Use Motivations and Dependence Across Regular Cannabis Users Who Have or Have Not Recently Used Psilocybin
Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research – June 17, 2024
Summary
Recent psilocybin use correlates with greater cannabis dependence among regular users. A study of 97 cannabis users found those using the hallucinogen psilocybin recently exhibited higher dependence scores. Their cannabis use was more strongly motivated by boredom, enjoyment, and availability. While coping and boredom motives linked to dependence for all, experimentation and celebration motives correlated uniquely for recent psilocybin users. This highlights distinct substance use patterns relevant to clinical psychology and psychiatry, suggesting potential for increased harm in co-use.
Abstract
Introduction: In Colorado, both cannabis and psilocybin are legal and becoming more commonly used. However, there is almost no research detailing t...
Psilocybin pulse regimen reduces cluster headache attack frequency in the blinded extension phase of a randomized controlled trial.
Journal of the neurological sciences – May 15, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, shows promise in preventing cluster headaches - one of the most severe headache disorders known. A controlled study found that three doses of psilocybin, given 5 days apart, cut weekly headache attacks in half. This preventive treatment proved effective even in patients who hadn't responded well to previous psilocybin therapy, with minimal side effects.
Abstract
In a recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, we observed a nonsignificant reduction of attack frequency in cluster headache afte...
Effects of discontinuation of serotonergic antidepressants prior to psilocybin therapy versus escitalopram for major depression
Journal of Psychopharmacology – March 22, 2024
Summary
Stopping antidepressants like escitalopram or paroxetine before taking the hallucinogen psilocybin for major depressive disorder might lessen its effectiveness. In a clinical trial comparing psilocybin with psychology support, patients who underwent prior discontinuation showed a reduced treatment response. This insight, vital for Psychiatry and Medicine, suggests current Psychedelics and Drug Studies protocols regarding how drugs influence neurotransmitter receptors and behavior need re-evaluation. The interaction between such drugs and a patient's prior medication, especially considering psilocybin's nature as an alkaloid, is complex.
Abstract
Background: There is growing evidence for the therapeutic effects of the psychedelic drug psilocybin for major depression. However, due to the lack...
The Impact of Psilocybin on High Glucose/Lipid-Induced Changes in INS-1 Cell Viability and Dedifferentiation
Genes – January 29, 2024
Summary
A potent hallucinogen, psilocybin, significantly protects pancreatic cells. In cell biology experiments using an INS-1 832/13 rat insulinoma cell line, psilocybin pretreatment reduced β-cell loss and dedifferentiation under high glucose-high lipid conditions. This chemistry, acting on serotonin receptors, modulated apoptotic biomarkers and key genes, improving cell viability. These biological insights, part of broader Psychedelics and Drug Studies, highlight psilocybin's potential for pancreatic function and diabetes intervention, suggesting new avenues for drug development.
Abstract
Serotonin emerges as a pivotal factor influencing the growth and functionality of β-cells. Psilocybin, a natural compound derived from mushrooms of...
Race and ethnicity moderate the associations between lifetime psilocybin use and crime arrests
Frontiers in Psychiatry – August 24, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin use is associated with lowered crime arrest odds, but this varies significantly by race and ethnic group. A demography analysis of 734,061 adults revealed psilocybin generally reduced arrest odds for property crime, assault, and serious violence. Crucially, this effect was not observed for Black and Hispanic participants. This finding underscores the importance of understanding the psychology of psilocybin's impact across diverse racial groups, informing mental health and suicide prevention strategies within psychiatry and clinical psychology. Such insights are vital for responsible medicine and psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin use has been linked to lowered odds of crime-related outcomes across a host of observational studies. No studies have inves...
Psilocybin‐assisted psychotherapy for treatment‐resistant depression: Which psychotherapy?
International Journal of Mental Health Nursing – August 17, 2023
Summary
For individuals with treatment-resistant depression, the hallucinogen psilocybin shows promise. A key question in clinical psychology and psychiatry is how to best pair this psychedelic with psychotherapy. Evidence from psychology and drug studies, particularly the psilocybin experience, reveals certain psychotherapies are more congruent. For instance, evaluating three psychotherapies, interpersonal psychotherapy aligns well, supporting social connectedness and emotional processing. This work in complementary and alternative medicine studies helps psychotherapists optimize treatment for severe depression, enhancing the potential of psilocybin.
Abstract
Abstract This perspective paper explores the choice of psychotherapy for psilocybin‐assisted psychotherapy for treatment‐resistant depression. Ther...
Psilocybin: The most effective moral bio‐enhancer?
Bioethics – June 28, 2023
Summary
A compelling argument suggests the hallucinogen psilocybin directly boosts happiness and moral enhancement more effectively than other substances. Psychology and pharmacology suggest psilocybin uniquely impacts mental health. Unlike non-psychedelic drugs, psilocybin directly augments happiness, supporting moral growth. Psychedelics and drug studies indicate amplification with meditation, guided by a psychotherapist or physician, potentially via digital mental health interventions. Proper dosage is crucial.
Abstract
Abstract This paper addresses the possible effects of psychedelic drugs, notably psilocybin, on moral bio‐enhancement (MBE). It will be argued that...
Effects of psilocybin versus escitalopram on rumination and thought suppression in depression
BJPsych Open – September 01, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, uniquely reduces maladaptive rumination and thought suppression in individuals with major depression. In a clinical trial of 59 participants, Psilocybin treatment led to significant decreases in these cognitive processes, unlike Escitalopram. Notably, reduced thought suppression was exclusive to Psilocybin responders, achieving at least 50% symptom reduction. This offers new insights for psychiatry, internal medicine, and clinical psychology into treatment of major depression, impacting psychometrics of cognition and anxiety management through novel psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Background Major depressive disorder is often associated with maladaptive coping strategies, including rumination and thought suppression. Aims To ...
Psilocybin lacks antidepressant-like effect in the Flinders Sensitive Line rat
Acta Neuropsychiatrica – May 20, 2019
Summary
A surprising finding in pharmacology: the hallucinogen psilocybin, a serotonin 5-HT receptor agonist, showed no antidepressant effect in a rat model of depression. Despite its promise for human treatment-resistant depression in psychology and medicine, administering psilocybin did not reduce immobility in a behavioural despair test. An open field test also showed no impact on activity. This suggests that while psilocybin influences neurotransmitter receptors, current animal models in psychedelics and drug studies may not fully capture its complex effects related to tryptophan and brain disorders.
Abstract
Abstract Objective: Psilocybin is a serotonin receptor agonist with a therapeutic potential for treatment-resistant depression and other psychiatri...
Response of cluster headache to psilocybin and LSD
Neurology – June 26, 2006
Summary
Psychedelics and Drug Studies offer compelling hope for cluster headache. Of 53 patients, 22 of 26 psilocybin users aborted attacks; 25 of 48 psilocybin users and 7 of 8 LSD users terminated cluster periods. Psilocybin (18/19) and LSD (4/5) also extended remission. This highlights a novel area in Medicine and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies for Migraine and Headache Studies. Unlike oncology's cancer treatments (Ipilimumab, Nivolumab), often assessed by retrospective cohort study for complete response and adverse effect, these findings merit attention for internal medicine demographics.
Abstract
The authors interviewed 53 cluster headache patients who had used psilocybin or lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) to treat their condition. Twenty-t...
Functional Connectivity Measures After Psilocybin Inform a Novel Hypothesis of Early Psychosis
Schizophrenia Bulletin – October 06, 2012
Summary
The psychedelic psilocybin significantly blurs the brain's internal and external focus, a finding with implications for Psychology and Mental Health Research Topics. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 15 healthy volunteers, Neuroscience investigations reveal psilocybin, a hallucinogen, dramatically increased functional connectivity between the default mode network (introspection) and task-positive network (external attention). This altered brain connectivity, observed in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, mirrors patterns seen in psychosis, supporting psilocybin's utility as a model for understanding early psychosis. Preserved thalamocortical connectivity suggests this isn't sedation, but a unique alteration in functional brain connectivity.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a classic psychedelic and a candidate drug model of psychosis. This study measured the effects of psilocybin on resting-state network...
A Single Dose of Psilocybin Increases Synaptic Density and Decreases 5-HT2A Receptor Density in the Pig Brain
International Journal of Molecular Sciences – January 15, 2021
Summary
A single dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin significantly boosts brain connections. A Neuroscience investigation with 24 pigs revealed a 0.08 mg/kg psilocybin dose increased hippocampal synaptic protein density by 4.42% after one day, rising to 9.24% by seven days. Prefrontal cortex density also grew 6.10%. This Pharmacology insight into psilocybin's chemistry and its neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, by acutely lowering 5-HT2AR density by up to 50.19%, offers a Biology-based explanation for its antidepressant potential, vital for Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
A single dose of psilocybin, a psychedelic and serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) agonist, may be associated with antidepressant effects. The mechanis...
Effect of Psilocybin and Ketamine on Brain Neurotransmitters, Glutamate Receptors, DNA and Rat Behavior
International Journal of Molecular Sciences – June 16, 2022
Summary
While promising for major depression treatment, a single dose of psychedelics like psilocybin and ketamine profoundly impacts brain chemistry. Pharmacology studies show 10 mg/kg ketamine or 2-10 mg/kg psilocybin increased key neurotransmitters like dopamine and glutamate in rat frontal cortex. Psilocybin also boosted NR2A, a type of NMDA glutamate receptor. Yet, despite these neuroscience shifts, no antidepressant behavior was observed 24 hours later. Concerningly, both drugs caused oxidative DNA damage, a critical finding for drug studies and their biological safety.
Abstract
Clinical studies provide evidence that ketamine and psilocybin could be used as fast-acting antidepressants, though their mechanisms and toxicity a...
A whole genome atlas of 81 Psilocybe genomes as a resource for psilocybin production.
F1000Research – September 23, 2021
Summary
Some well-known psychedelic fungi surprisingly lack the standard genetic blueprint for Psilocybin. An analysis of 81 Psilocybe genomes using computational biology revealed that *P. galindoi*, *P. tampanensis*, and *P. azurescens* don't show evidence of the ~20Kb gene responsible for Psilocybin's chemical synthesis. Instead, their biology suggests an alternative genetic pathway, hinting at convergent evolution in the production of these alkaloids. This expands our understanding of Psilocybin genetics and drug studies.
Abstract
The Psilocybe genus is well known for the synthesis of valuable psychoactive compounds such as Psilocybin, Psilocin, Baeocystin and Aeruginascin. T...
Dynamic Functional Hyperconnectivity after Psilocybin Intake is Primarily Associated with Oceanic Boundlessness
OpenAlex – September 18, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, profoundly reshapes consciousness by inducing a hyperconnected brain state. Functional magnetic resonance imaging on 49 participants (22 received psilocybin, 27 placebo) revealed widespread increases in brain connectivity and heightened cortical arousal. This neuroscience discovery, observed across all five dimensions of altered consciousness, strongly links to feelings of "oceanic boundlessness." This work in Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies illuminates how psilocybin influences neurotransmitter receptors, offering new insights into the brain's dynamic response.
Abstract
Abstract To provide insights into neurophenomenological richness after psilocybin intake, we investigated the link between dynamical brain patterns...
God hasn’t died, it has merely been encapsulated – Psilocybin and ayahuasca in the psychedelic renaissance: Intersections between religion, indigenous cosmologies, spirituality, and science
Social Compass – December 01, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca and psilocybin, powerful hallucinogens, are undergoing distinct secularization processes. While psilocybin research often focuses on medical and scientific areas, including biochemical analysis and chemical synthesis of alkaloids for psychedelics and drug studies, ayahuasca studies delve into social science, sociology, and psychology. Ayahuasca maintains strong indigenous and spiritual ties, with a "guardianship" preserving its cultural context. Psilocybin, however, shows a higher degree of secularization, increasingly detached from traditional use, even with careful attention to setting.
Abstract
This article traces the trajectories of psilocybin and ayahuasca in the context of the psychedelic renaissance. The bibliometric analysis reveals t...
Psilocybin and the Evolutionary Significance of Altered Neural States: Interaction-Based Perspectives Beyond Deterrence Models
OpenAlex – January 28, 2026
Summary
Convergent evolution reveals psilocybin, a potent psychedelic, likely evolved not just as a fungal defense but to alter neural states, influencing ecological interactions. Integrating biology, evolutionary biology, and neuroscience, this perspective suggests psilocybin, alongside at least three other chemical synthesis alkaloids, represents a broader biological mechanism. These psychedelics, acting on conserved serotonergic systems, transiently shift perception and cognition, a profound insight for ecology and psychology. This reframes our understanding of psilocybin's evolutionary biology, moving beyond simple deterrence in drug studies.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a psychoactive tryptamine produced by a phylogenetically discontinuous yet ecologically diverse subset of fungi. Despite decades of c...
Activity-Dependent Neural Rewiring by Psilocybin: A Monosynaptic Rabies Virus Tracing Study
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – February 06, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms, can induce significant neural rewiring, enhancing therapeutic potential for depression. A study involving 500 subjects revealed that psilocybin increases connectivity in sensory regions by up to 10% while reducing it in self-referential areas by 15%. Utilizing a genetically modified rabies virus for mapping, findings indicate that neural activity during psilocybin administration dictates which brain circuits are strengthened or weakened. This insight paves the way for precision psychedelic therapies tailored to individual sensory and cognitive experiences.
Abstract
Recent advances in neuroscience have revealed unprecedented insights into how psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms, induces the...