3034 results for "Psilocybin"
Increased low-frequency brain responses to music after psilocybin therapy for depression
OpenAlex – February 15, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin therapy significantly enhances the brain's emotional response to music. Nineteen patients with depression underwent two psilocybin sessions, where music therapy is a key element. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) revealed increased activity in the temporal lobe and supramarginal gyrus during music listening post-treatment, compared to resting state fMRI. This suggests psilocybin, a psychedelic medicine, elevates responsiveness to this hedonic stimulus. These neuroscience findings in psychology highlight how psilocybin influences sensory processing, with activity correlating to subjective drug effects, offering insights for medicine and drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy with psilocybin is an emerging therapy with great promise for depression, and modern psychedelic therap...
Vorkommen von Psilocybin und Baeocystin in Fruchtkörpern vonPluteus salicinus
Planta Medica – June 01, 1987
Summary
A compelling finding reveals *Pluteus salicinus* mushrooms contain psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, with cap concentrations reaching an impressive 1.57%. This natural chemistry analysis, relevant for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, identified psilocybin and baeocystin, but not psilocin, in dried fruit body extracts. Caps consistently held more psilocybin than stems, alongside urea and tryptophan. The presence of these compounds offers insights for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies. A correlation between psilocybin and urea content was also observed, deepening our understanding of these fascinating compounds.
Abstract
Using HPLC and TLC, psilocybin and baeocystin but not psilocin were found in extracts of dried fruit bodies of PLUTEUS SALICINUS. Caps contain more...
Methyl transfer in psilocybin biosynthesis
Nature Communications – March 28, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a natural hallucinogen from “magic” mushrooms, shows promise in treating depression. Analyzing the enzyme PsiM, responsible for the final step in psilocybin production, revealed atomic resolution structures at 0.9 Å across various reaction stages. Insights indicate PsiM's origins from the METTL16 family of methyltransferases, with bound substrates resembling RNA. Limitations of this ancestral scaffold hinder psilocybin assembly efficiency and prevent trimethylation to aeruginascin. These findings pave the way for bioengineering enhanced psilocybin variants with superior therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin, the natural hallucinogen produced by Psilocybe (“magic”) mushrooms, holds great promise for the treatment of depression and se...
Patients’ Attitudes Toward Hallucinogenic and Non-Hallucinogenic Psilocybin for Mental Health Treatment
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – May 29, 2025
Summary
A compelling finding reveals that 62.4% of psychiatric patients are open to hallucinogenic psilocybin therapy, with 60.4% also accepting non-hallucinogenic forms. This suggests a significant shift in mental health perspectives regarding psychoactive substances. While those with major depressive disorder preferred the hallucinogen, patients with borderline personality disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder favored non-hallucinogenic options. Individuals with substance use disorder showed greater acceptance of both. This insight from Psychology and Psychiatry helps medicine tailor Psychedelics and Drug Studies, exploring chemical synthesis and alkaloids for mental health.
Abstract
This study examined patient perspectives on psilocybin therapy, specifically their acceptance and views on the therapeutic benefits of both halluci...
Separate or inseparable? Serotonin and dopamine system interactions may underlie the therapeutic potential of psilocybin for anorexia nervosa
Physiology & Behavior – May 20, 2025
Summary
Compelling neuroscience reveals psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, offers significant hope for anorexia nervosa. This powerful alkaloid enhances cognitive flexibility and improves cognition by modifying reward processing. Neurochemical actions involve neuroplasticity, altering neural circuits within the prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens. Data from animal models and human imaging studies show its influence on both serotonin and dopaminergic pathways, impacting dopamine. This complex neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, a key area in psychology and psychedelics and drug studies, underpins its therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, has emerged as a promising treatment for a range of mental health conditions, including anorexia nervosa. R...
Regulatory Alignment of Psilocybin Clinical Trials in Major Depressive Disorder on ClinicalTrials.gov: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Pharmacopsychiatry – April 17, 2025
Summary
Only four of eleven identified psilocybin clinical trial protocols for major depressive disorder (MDD) and treatment-resistant depression (TRD) adequately addressed regulatory standards. While superficially compliant, these trials, often using 25 mg of the alkaloid, overlooked critical drug interactions and potential biases like expectancy theory. Two protocols were double-blind. For psychiatry and psychology, ensuring rigorous oversight in medicine is crucial for psychedelics, understanding their neurotransmitter receptor influence. Patients with schizoaffective disorder were excluded, highlighting compliance gaps in these drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Regulatory compliance is crucial in the clinical development of psychedelic substances, including psilocybin. This study aimed to examine ...
Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin for Treating Neuropsychiatric Long COVID Symptoms: A Reddit Investigation
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – March 14, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, 78.2% of individuals with long COVID symptoms, a consequence of Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), reported improvement using the hallucinogen psilocybin. An analysis of 110 online accounts from the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic revealed 77.9% of those improving experienced lasting relief beyond the acute psychedelic effect. Common neuropsychiatric issues like fatigue (47.3%) and cognitive impairment (46.4%) were cited. This suggests a compelling avenue for Psychiatry, Medicine, and Psychology to explore psychedelics in post-pandemic care and Complementary/Alternative Medicine.
Abstract
Long COVID lacks effective pharmaceutical treatment options. Psychedelic treatment for long COVID has received attention given anecdotal reports of...
Amid magic and menace: psychiatrists’ attitudes to psilocybin therapy
Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine – November 07, 2024
Summary
A significant 81.5% of 151 psychiatrists in Ireland believe psilocybin therapy holds promise for psychiatric disorders. This potent hallucinogen, increasingly central to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, garnered support from 86.8% who would refer patients if licensed. While 78.1% would consider this medicine for themselves, only 40.0% felt knowledgeable about its application within psychiatry and psychology. Despite positive attitudes, a clear knowledge gap exists among practitioners, including psychotherapists, crucial for integrating this field, moving beyond its past as complementary medicine.
Abstract
Abstract Objectives: Understanding variations in knowledge and attitudes of psychiatrists to psilocybin therapy is important for the collective dis...
Pharmacokinetics of Psilocybin, a Tryptamine Alkaloid in Magic Mushroom ( Psilocybe cubensis ): A Systematic Review
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – September 10, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a Tryptamine alkaloid from traditional medicine sources, is a breakthrough therapy for major depressive disorder in Psychology. A review of 20 articles in Psychedelics and Drug Studies examined its pharmacokinetics: how the body processes it. This alkaloid, studied in Pharmacology and Chemical synthesis, acts as a prodrug, rapidly converting to psilocin. Its active form quickly peaks, with a 2-3 hour half-life, vital for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a major indole alkaloid found in magic mushrooms (Psilocybe cubensis), has recently drawn attention as a breakthrough therapy to treat ...
Psilocybin and 2C-B at Encoding Distort Episodic Familiarity.
Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging – October 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and 2C-B can significantly alter how our brains process and store memories. Research shows these substances affect episodic memory by distorting our sense of familiarity with past experiences. When people viewed emotional images under these psychedelics, they later showed increased false recognition, particularly for emotional content, while their ability to recall specific details decreased.
Abstract
As research on psychedelics (hallucinogenic serotonin receptor 2A agonists) progresses, it is important to delineate the reliability of supposedly ...
The 'PSILAUT' protocol: an experimental medicine study of autistic differences in the function of brain serotonin targets of psilocybin.
BMC psychiatry – April 25, 2024
Summary
Groundbreaking research explores how psilocybin affects the brains of autistic and non-autistic adults differently. Using neuroimaging and low doses of this psychedelic compound, scientists examine its interaction with brain serotonin systems. The study compares neural responses between groups, providing new insights into autism's biological basis.
Abstract
The underlying neurobiology of the complex autism phenotype remains obscure, although accumulating evidence implicates the serotonin system and esp...
LSD and psilocybin flatten the brain’s energy landscape: insights from receptor-informed network control theory
OpenAlex – May 17, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin significantly ease the brain's ability to transition between different activity states, promoting more varied dynamics. This finding from Functional Brain Connectivity Studies highlights how these compounds, central to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, effectively "flatten" the brain's energy requirements. LSD's impact correlates with more frequent state changes and increased brain diversity across individuals. This mechanism, vital for Mental Health Research Topics, is specifically driven by serotonin 2a receptors, enabling more fluid brain activity.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelics like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin offer a powerful window into the function of the human brain and mind, b...
An Improved, Practical, and Scalable Five-Step Synthesis of Psilocybin
Synthesis – January 08, 2020
Summary
Producing high-quality psilocybin for psychedelics and drug studies just became significantly easier. A new chemical synthesis streamlines the production of this vital alkaloid, achieving multigram quantities in five steps with an impressive 23% overall yield from an inexpensive starting material. This improved chemistry eliminates complex purification methods like chromatography, focusing instead on precise process control for impurity removal. Such advancements in alkaloid synthesis are crucial for pharmacology research.
Abstract
Described herein is an improved synthesis of 3-[2-(dimethylamino)ethyl]-1H-indol-4-yl dihydrogen phosphate (psilocybin). The protocol outlines: syn...
A systematic literature review and meta-analysis of the effect of psilocybin and methylenedioxymethamphetamine on mental, behavioural or developmental disorders
Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry – March 12, 2022
Summary
A meta-analysis in psychiatry reveals significant promise for psychedelics. MDMA, combined with psychological support, strongly reduced PTSD symptoms, with an effect size of -0.86 across four trials. Psilocybin in medicine proved equally effective as escitalopram for long-standing depression, also easing anxiety in life-threatening illness. These drug studies suggest clinical psychology could integrate such treatments, influencing neurotransmitter receptors to modify behavior. Unlike digital mental health interventions, these require supervised settings and intensive support.
Abstract
Objectives: There is an increasing interest in combining psilocybin or methylenedioxymethamphetamine with psychological support in treating psychia...
Overview and Specificity of Psilocybin Use in the Treatment of Mental Disorders: A Scientometric Analysis
Psychedelic Medicine – January 21, 2025
Summary
A global surge highlights Psilocybin's therapeutic promise in Psychiatry. Analysis of 853 publications (1963-2023) revealed a remarkable 52% growth between 2016 and 2023, mainly from high-income nations. This natural alkaloid, a powerful Hallucinogen, is increasingly explored in Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, including chemical synthesis and alkaloids. Meta-analyses indicate its efficacy for conditions like depression and anxiety, underscoring its emerging role in mental health treatment.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin is a natural alkaloid with therapeutic potential in the treatment of different mental disorders. Bibliometric information on...
Self-perception and self-recognition while looking in the mirror on psilocybin
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – September 19, 2023
Summary
Under **psilocybin**, individuals often perceive their own **face** positively, even when distorted. A **psychology** analysis of 89 Reddit posts (775 excerpts) on **face perception** during **psychedelics and drug studies** revealed that while self-recognition varied widely, people were significantly more positive than negative about their appearance. It was rare to see oneself as a different entity, yet equally common to see one's face as "real" or "distorted." This offers insights into **cognitive psychology** and **mental health** understanding, relevant for **mental health research topics**.
Abstract
Abstract Introduction It is not known how self-perception and self-recognition are influenced when one is highly self-focused under the influence o...
Real-World Psilocybin Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression: a Retrospective Observational Study
OpenAlex – December 10, 2025
Summary
Patients with severe treatment-resistant depression experienced significant symptom reduction after psilocybin treatment in a real-world setting. Nineteen patients in Switzerland saw average depression scores (MADRS) drop from 30.78 to 19.89, a large effect (Hedges’ *g* = 1.37). Another measure (BDI) showed scores decreasing from 32.33 to 23.28 (effect *r* = .80). A third achieved response (33.3% MADRS), with 22.2% achieving remission. No serious adverse events occurred, though these rates were lower than in controlled trials.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin has demonstrated promising antidepressant effects in depression and treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in controlled clinical...
Unexpected Detection of Psilocybin in a 100 mg Tramadol Tablet: A Forensic Case Report
SHILAP Revista de lepidopterología – December 01, 2025
Summary
A startling finding in Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis revealed a tablet labeled 100 mg Tramadol, an opioid analgesic medicine, contained a high concentration of Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen. This drug adulteration, identified via advanced chemistry, meant a patient expecting 100 mg of the pain-relieving opioid received only 60 mg, plus an undisclosed psychedelic. Such Pharmaceutical Quality and Counterfeiting poses severe public health risks. Understanding the pharmacology of these substances is vital for Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Background: Tramadol is a synthetic opioid analgesic prescribed for moderate pain. Psilocybin (4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine) is a natural...
Exploring the Effects of Psilocybin on Depression and the Mediating Role of the 5-HT2A Receptor: A Systematic Review
Acta Neuropsychiatrica – September 03, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers substantial, rapid antidepressant effects for Major Depressive Disorder. A systematic review of 20 studies, including randomized controlled trials, reveals that just one or two dosing sessions, combined with psychotherapist support, can sustain improvements for weeks or months. This pharmacology-based medicine shows promise in psychiatry, especially for those unresponsive to conventional antidepressants. While mild anxiety and transient headaches are noted as adverse effects, its clinical psychology application is a significant development in psychedelics and drug studies for mental health.
Abstract
Abstract Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a significant public health concern, and current treatments often have limitations in effec...
Usage of Psilocybin to Treat Huntington's Disease: A Research Protocol
Undergraduate Research in Natural and Clinical Science and Technology (URNCST) Journal – September 05, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen derived via chemical synthesis and alkaloids, offers significant hope for Huntington's disease, a devastating neurodegenerative disease. A scientific protocol outlines an experiment where several groups of mice mimicking HD will receive this drug, central to Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Expected results, analyzed with computer science techniques, suggest improved motor control—a key aspect in psychology—reduced neuron death, and increased synaptic density. This medicine could establish a vital new treatment to slow the disease's progression, enhancing quality of life.
Abstract
Introduction: Huntington’s Disease (HD) is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease that causes significant amounts of neuron death in the brain. I...
Exploring Psychotherapeutic Benefits of Psilocybin and Psychedelics In Controlled Medical Settings
Journal of Student Research – November 30, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, is revolutionizing Psychology's approach to mental health. Integrated with a psychotherapist's expertise, this psychedelic drug shows remarkable promise for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance abuse. Its unique action, rooted in chemical synthesis and alkaloids, offers longer-lasting effects with fewer dosages than current pharmaceuticals. Growing Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggest this therapeutic path could significantly improve patient outcomes, offering a new frontier in care, contingent on federal regulation.
Abstract
Psychedelics are emerging as an effective way to combat mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance abuse. Psychedelic...
Psilocybin reporting in media (PRiMe) for the treatment of depression
Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine – December 18, 2025
Summary
Online news portrays psilocybin for depression with a very positive sentiment, averaging 2.27 on a -5 to +5 scale. An analysis of 125 articles revealed a surge in coverage, with 43.2% appearing since 2022, predominantly from the USA (68%). While 90.4% cited experts, fewer articles addressed risks (47.2%), long-term evidence (46.4%), or patient perspectives (25%). This highlights how media shapes public discourse, suggesting a need for more balanced reporting to align understanding with scientific evidence.
Abstract
Abstract Objectives: Interest in psilocybin as a treatment for depression has risen over the past decade, fuelled by promising clinical trials and ...
No evidence of immediate or persistent analgesic effect from a single dose of psilocybin in three mouse models of pain
Nature Communications – January 22, 2026
Summary
Challenging popular belief, a pharmacology study suggests the hallucinogen psilocybin may not be a direct analgesic for chronic pain. Despite its use in some psychedelics and drug studies, experiments with male and female mice across various neuropathic and inflammatory pain models, using doses from 0.3 to 10 mg/kg, found no true pain management or raised threshold of pain. While an apparent reduction in cold sensitivity occurred, this was attributed to profound hypothermia, not genuine nociception modulation. Thus, this drug may not function as a direct medicine for pain.
Abstract
The psychedelic psilocybin may have lasting therapeutic effects for patients with chronic pain syndromes. Some preclinical data suggest these putat...
Premorbid Characteristics of the SAPAP3-Mouse Model of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Behavior, Neuroplasticity, and Psilocybin Treatment
OpenAlex – September 23, 2024
Summary
Juvenile mice modeling obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) display significant anxiety, spending less time in open maze arms, *before* developing compulsive behaviors. This parallels human Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders. Psychology and Neuroscience observations showed Psilocybin (4.4 mg/kg), a focus in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, did not alleviate this early anxiety. However, adult male mice modeling OCD showed increased neuroplasticity-related proteins like GAP43 and synaptophysin in emotion-regulating brain regions, unlike their juvenile counterparts. This highlights age-dependent brain changes relevant for psychotherapist-led early interventions.
Abstract
Abstract Background SAPAP3-knockout (KO) mice develop excessive self-grooming behavior at 4-6 months of age, serving as a model for obsessive-compu...
Low-income group psilocybin assisted therapy for depression: An Oregon feasibility study
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – February 12, 2026
Summary
Group psilocybin therapy shows promise for low-income adults with depression, achieving an impressive 4.8 out of 5 satisfaction rating among participants. In a cohort of 26, 19 completed the treatment without severe adverse effects. Notably, Hamilton Depression scores dropped significantly, indicating a strong effect size of 1.89. Additionally, all eight domains of the PROMIS-29 demonstrated substantial improvements, with effect sizes ranging from 0.667 to 1.774. These findings highlight the potential for accessible psychedelic interventions in mental health care.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Despite growing popularity and increasing legal access, psychedelic therapy remains financially inaccessible to many. ...
Neurobiological mechanisms of antidepressant properties of psilocybin: A systematic review of blood biomarkers.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 10, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin shows promising effects on key blood biomarkers linked to depression treatment. Analysis of multiple studies reveals that this compound increases brain-growth factors and beneficial hormones while reducing inflammation markers in the body. For people with treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder, these biological changes may explain how psilocybin provides relief.
Abstract
Psilocybin represents a novel therapeutic approach for individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) who do not respond to conventional antidepr...
Race and ethnicity moderate the associations between lifetime psilocybin use and past year hypertension
Frontiers in Psychiatry – June 24, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin use appears linked to better cardiovascular health, but this benefit isn't universal across all racial and ethnic groups. A large demography study analyzed data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2005–2014), revealing Non-Hispanic White individuals who used psilocybin had 17% reduced odds of past-year hypertension (odds ratio: 0.83). This suggests that the impact of psychedelics like psilocybin on medicine varies significantly by race and ethnic group, a vital consideration for future clinical applications.
Abstract
Background Hypertension is a major source of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly for racial and ethnic minorities who face higher rates...
Brain dynamics predictive of response to psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression.
Brain communications – January 01, 2024
Summary
Scientists have discovered specific brain regions that determine whether psilocybin treatment will effectively treat depression. Using large-scale brain modelling, researchers identified key neural patterns in patients before treatment that predicted success. Those who responded well showed distinct brain activity in areas rich in serotonin receptors - the same regions where psilocybin acts. This breakthrough explains why the treatment works for some but not others.
Abstract
Psilocybin therapy for depression has started to show promise, yet the underlying causal mechanisms are not currently known. Here, we leveraged the...
Psilocybin for treatment resistant depression in patients taking a concomitant SSRI medication.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – September 01, 2023
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, combined with standard antidepressants, showed promising results for people with hard-to-treat depression. In this groundbreaking approach, patients maintained their regular antidepressants while receiving psilocybin therapy. After three weeks, 42% of participants experienced significant improvement or complete remission, with minimal side effects.
Abstract
Psilocybin is being investigated as a treatment in adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Withdrawal from serotonergic antidepressant dr...
Assessment of the Acute Effects of 2C‐B vs. Psilocybin on Subjective Experience, Mood, and Cognition
Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics – May 30, 2023
Summary
While the hallucinogen 2C-B, derived from mescaline, impacts cognition similarly to psilocybin, its psychological effects differ. In a 22-participant double-blind study, 2C-B (20mg) and psilocybin (15mg) both impaired psychomotor speed versus placebo. Yet, psilocybin caused greater dysphoria and auditory alterations, relevant to audiology. As a serotonergic compound, 2C-B’s effects resolved within six hours. These psychedelics and drug studies inform clinical psychology's understanding of mood, anhedonia, and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, crucial for developmental psychology insights.
Abstract
2,5‐dimethoxy‐4‐bromophenethylamine (2C‐B) is a hallucinogenic phenethylamine derived from mescaline. Observational and preclinical data have sugge...
The evolution and ecology of psilocybin in nature.
Fungal genetics and biology : FG & B – June 01, 2023
Summary
Certain fungi produce psilocybin, a specialized metabolite that mimics serotonin in animal brains. Research reveals this compound's evolution across diverse mushroom species isn't random - it's a strategic adaptation. By affecting neurotransmitters in insects and other organisms, psilocybin likely helps fungi survive and thrive in their ecosystems through chemical defense and ecological interactions.
Abstract
Fungi produce diverse metabolites that can have antimicrobial, antifungal, antifeedant, or psychoactive properties. Among these metabolites are the...
Underground small-group therapy of treatment-resistant depression and complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) with psilocybin—A retrospective case study
OpenAlex – March 10, 2023
Summary
A woman with 30 years of treatment-resistant depression found lasting relief through psilocybin. After prior medications caused adverse effects and discontinuation, she engaged in six psilocybin sessions over 1.5 years. This approach in clinical psychology helped interrupt dissociative trauma responses. A 2.5-year follow-up confirmed remission, suggesting a multi-dose strategy with psychedelics can offer profound psychological healing. This case highlights how psilocybin, an alkaloid influencing neurotransmitter receptors, may resolve severe depression where traditional psychiatry failed, particularly for those experiencing early life trauma and feelings of abandonment.
Abstract
While a relatively large body of research exists on many aspects of psychedelic therapy, articles describing a complete, successful treatment proce...
Quality of Acute Psychedelic Experience Predicts Therapeutic Efficacy of Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant Depression
Frontiers in Pharmacology – January 17, 2018
Summary
The quality of a psychedelic experience profoundly impacts long-term mental health. A clinical trial with 20 patients found that receiving psilocybin, an alkaloid hallucinogen, for treatment-resistant depression yielded significant results. Specifically, mystical-type experiences during a 25mg psilocybin session predicted reduced depression symptoms five weeks later. This pharmacology insight, reflecting psilocybin's neurotransmitter receptor influence, suggests optimizing the acute experience is crucial for effective medicine in drug studies.
Abstract
Introduction: It is a basic principle of the "psychedelic" treatment model that the quality of the acute experience mediates long-term improvements...
Psilocybin Enhances Cued Fear Extinction and Extinction Recall in Stress-Naïve, Acutely Stressed, and Chronically Stressed Mice
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science – September 11, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveal psilocybin, a compound derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, powerfully enhances fear extinction and recall. In male mice, psilocybin improved the ability to overcome fear memories across all groups, including stress-naïve animals and those with prior acute or chronic stress. This Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior demonstrates psilocybin's therapeutic promise isn't hindered by past environmental stressors. Interestingly, while stress-naïve mice displayed transient corticosterone increases, stressed mice did not.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics have shown promise in clinical trials for treating an array of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, an...
Increased nature relatedness and decreased authoritarian political views after psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression
Journal of Psychopharmacology – January 17, 2018
Summary
Psilocybin appears to reduce authoritarian political views, a striking finding from clinical psychology. Seven patients with treatment-resistant depression received two oral psilocybin dosing sessions (10 mg, 25 mg) with psychological support. One week later, authoritarianism significantly decreased, and nature relatedness increased, shifts that largely persisted for 7-12 months. Seven healthy controls showed no such changes. This pilot suggests psychedelics, like psilocybin, hold promise in psychiatry and politics, potentially offering new avenues in complementary medicine for lasting attitudinal changes.
Abstract
Rationale: Previous research suggests that classical psychedelic compounds can induce lasting changes in personality traits, attitudes and beliefs ...
Enzymatic Synthesis of Psilocybin
Angewandte Chemie International Edition – August 01, 2017
Summary
For decades, the enzymatic chemistry behind psilocybin, the psychedelic compound in "magic mushrooms," remained a mystery. Now, four key enzymes have been characterized, revealing its complex biosynthesis. These enzymes, including a novel Tryptophan decarboxylase, orchestrate the transformation of Tryptophan into psilocybin, a tryptamine-derived alkaloid. This breakthrough in biochemistry outlines the precise stereochemistry of the process. Understanding this enzymatic pathway is crucial for future chemical synthesis and biotechnological production, especially given renewed interest in psilocybin for drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin is the psychotropic tryptamine‐derived natural product of Psilocybe carpophores, the so‐called “magic mushrooms”. Although its ...
Spontaneous and deliberate creative cognition during and after psilocybin exposure
Translational Psychiatry – April 08, 2021
Summary
A compelling finding in cognitive psychology reveals that the hallucinogen psilocybin uniquely impacts creativity. Administering 0.17 mg/kg psilocybin acutely increased spontaneous creative insights while decreasing deliberate task-based creativity. Seven days later, individuals showed more novel ideas, demonstrating lasting effects on cognition. These changes in creativity, a key psychological construct, were predicted by default mode network connectivity. This work from Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggests psilocybin, an alkaloid, offers a tool to understand the neural basis of cognitive flexibility.
Abstract
Abstract Creativity is an essential cognitive ability linked to all areas of our everyday functioning. Thus, finding a way to enhance it is of broa...
Human brain changes after first psilocybin use
OpenAlex – October 14, 2024
Summary
A single 25mg dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin profoundly alters the human brain, yielding lasting benefits. In a Drug Studies investigation with 28 psychedelic-naive individuals, anatomical and functional brain changes persisted for up to one month. Neuroscience revealed more integrated brain networks, correlating with improved well-being and psychological insight. This suggests psilocybin's potential in Mental Health and Psychiatry, enhancing cognitive flexibility. These effects were exclusive to the 25mg dose, underscoring psilocybin's specific impact on psychology.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Psychedelics have robust effects on acute brain function and long-term behavior but whether they also cause enduring functional and anatom...
A potential role for psilocybin in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – June 01, 2020
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin shows compelling promise for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a condition often resistant to conventional medicine. Building on its potential in mood and addiction, recent psychology and psychiatry reviews highlight psilocybin's therapeutic role. This psychedelic drug influences brain function by impacting neurotransmitter receptors, which may alleviate severe OCD symptoms. Clinical psychology and drug studies confirm psilocybin's physiological safety when administered by a psychotherapist. While current evidence is limited, these indications point towards a new avenue in medicine for managing this debilitating condition.
Abstract
Abstract The recent revivification of interest in the therapeutic use of psychedelics has had a particular focus on mood disorders and addiction, a...
The Effects of Psilocybin on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation in THP-1 Human Macrophages
Psychoactives – January 28, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin significantly reduces inflammation in a dose-dependent manner, offering new insights for Psychedelics and Drug Studies. When a THP1 cell line, stimulated with 500 ng/mL Lipopolysaccharide to induce inflammation, was exposed to psilocybin, it inversely correlated with proinflammatory cytokine production. This suggests psilocybin's potential to modulate neuroinflammation, a key mechanism in Neurodegeneration Mechanisms and various brain disorders linked to tryptophan metabolism.
Abstract
Psilocybin, an innate compound produced by mushrooms belonging to the Psilocybe genus, is primarily known for its agonistic effects on the serotoni...
Co-administration of midazolam and psilocybin: Differential effects on subjective quality versus memory of the psychedelic experience
OpenAlex – June 13, 2024
Summary
The profound psychological benefits of the serotonergic hallucinogen psilocybin may depend on remembering the experience. In a pharmacology experiment, 8 healthy participants received 25mg Psilocybin alongside Midazolam, a drug causing memory impairment. While consciously experiencing the psychedelic effects, participants showed reduced memory. Crucially, greater memory impairment tended to lessen positive psychological outcomes like insight and well-being. This neuroscience finding suggests neuroplasticity-related memory processes are integral to psilocybin's lasting effects in medicine, influencing behavior via neurotransmitter receptor influence.
Abstract
Abstract Aspects of the acute experience induced by the serotonergic psychedelic psilocybin predict symptomatic relief in multiple psychiatric diso...
Behavioural Effects of High Doses of Psilocybin in Female Rats
OpenAlex – November 21, 2024
Summary
Globally, 3.8% of the population experiences depression, and 0.4-3.6% anxiety, highlighting a critical need in medicine and psychiatry. While psilocybin shows promise in clinical psychology, pre-clinical studies, especially with female subjects, are scarce. Using adult female rats, a study explored psilocybin's effects (4, 8, 16 mg/kg) on anxiety and depression-like behaviors via open field tests. Locomotor activity increased at 3 and 24 hours. No robust effects on anxiety or depression were seen, but trends emerged. Intriguingly, small groups suggested female hormones might offer a protective effect against psilocybin's impact on depression.
Abstract
<p><strong>Depression and anxiety are two of the most predominant mental disorders and leading causes of disability. The World Health O...
Psilocybin ameliorates neuropathic pain-like behaviour in mice and facilitates gabapentin-mediated analgesia
OpenAlex – September 17, 2025
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, provided sustained pain relief in a model of chronic nerve injury pain in mice. This finding, crucial for Pain Mechanisms and Treatments, showed psilocybin's effects were partly mediated by 5-HT 2A receptors. Furthermore, this alkaloid significantly boosted the pain-reducing potential of gabapentin, a common drug. These initial drug studies suggest psilocybin could offer a valuable new approach for managing chronic pain, potentially by establishing lasting changes in neural processing.
Abstract
Abstract Chronic pain states are challenging to control with current drug therapies. Here, we demonstrate that a single dose of psilocybin can prod...
Hormonal Influences on Psilocybin Responsivity Across the Female Lifespan: Toward Personalized Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
Psychoactives – November 02, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin holds significant therapeutic potential for mood and cognitive dysregulation, yet its efficacy may be profoundly influenced by sex hormones. Affective disorders are notably more prevalent in females, and drug responses often show sex-based differences. A literature review emphasizes how estrogen critically impacts the serotonergic system, which psilocybin targets. This suggests a female's fluid hormonal states across reproductive phases could significantly alter serotonin dynamics and the optimal timing for psilocybin therapy, necessitating tailored treatment strategies.
Abstract
Today’s research highlights the therapeutic potential of the hallucinogen psilocybin in the treatment of pathologies associated with mood, cognitiv...
426. THE MGLUR2/3 ANTAGONIST ENHANCES THE BEHAVIORAL AND CELLULAR ANTIDEPRESSANT-LIKE EFFECTS OF PSILOCYBIN AND SCOPOLAMINE
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – August 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and scopolamine demonstrate powerful antidepressant effects, significantly amplified by targeting specific brain receptors. Pharmacology reveals a low dose of a Metabotropic glutamate receptor 2 antagonist dramatically enhanced psilocybin's antidepressant action in mice, with benefits lasting up to 7 days. This neuroscience insight suggests combining these agents could lower doses and reduce hallucinogenic side effects, a crucial development for Medicine. Such drug studies, exploring Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, offer new pathways for treating depression, leveraging chemical synthesis and alkaloids like psilocybin for improved psychological outcomes.
Abstract
Abstract Background Numerous data indicates that hallucinogens from various groups such as ketamine, scopolamine or psilocybin exert rapid antidepr...
THE EFFECT OF PSILOCYBIN AND EUGENOL ON LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE INDUCED INFLAMMATION IN SMALL AND LARGE INTESTINE OF MICE
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – March 01, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin and eugenol show promise in reducing intestinal inflammation, particularly in the large intestine. In experiments involving lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce inflammation, psilocybin effectively reduced inflammatory cytokines pre- and post-treatment in the large intestine, while it was effective only post-treatment in the small intestine. Eugenol demonstrated similar effects but was effective only after inflammation onset. Different ratios of psilocybin to eugenol (1:10, 1:20, 1:50) proved beneficial for large intestine inflammation, highlighting distinct responses between intestinal regions.
Abstract
Intestinal inflammation is a complex gastrointestinal condition, arising from immune dysfunction, epithelial cell abnormalities, and gut microbiota...
Replication and extension of a model predicting response to psilocybin.
Psychopharmacology – November 01, 2019
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Recent research demonstrated the potential of psychedelic drugs as treatment for depression and death-related anxiety and as an enhancement for wel...
Clinical conceptualisation of PTSD in psilocybin treatment: disrupting a pre-determined and over-determined maladaptive interpretive framework
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – June 08, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers a compelling new direction in clinical psychology for treating severe anxiety and other stressor-related disorders like PTSD. This review synthesizes literature on how this naturally derived chemical synthesis and alkaloid may disrupt rigid cognition patterns. Administered under a psychotherapist's guidance, psilocybin's unique properties are explored within psychiatry and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, proposing a framework for its therapeutic potential. This aligns with Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, highlighting its role in transforming maladaptive psychological frameworks.
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and associated trauma and stressor-related disorders are common and debilitating, presenting significant trea...
Single-dose psilocybin alters resting state functional networks in patients with body dysmorphic disorder
Psychedelics. – September 24, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin shows promise for Body dysmorphic disorder, a severe psychiatric condition. After a single 25 mg oral dosing with psychology support, 8 adults with BDD saw symptom reductions lasting 12 weeks. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) revealed that increased resting state fMRI connectivity within brain networks, including connections to the Default mode network's Precuneus and the Insula, predicted this improvement. These findings, relevant to Medicine, Psychiatry, and Body Image and Dysmorphia Studies, highlight psilocybin's potential in Psychosomatic Disorders and Their Treatments, advancing Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a severe psychiatric condition characterized by preoccupation with perceived flaws in one's appearance, which the...
Exploring psilocybin's role in mental health and palliative medicine: a path to improved well-being.
Expert opinion on emerging drugs – June 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a compound found in psychedelic mushrooms, shows remarkable potential in treating severe depression where traditional medications fail. Clinical evidence reveals rapid improvements in treatment-resistant patients, with benefits lasting months after just one or two supervised sessions. The compound also helps terminal patients in palliative care find peace and acceptance, reducing anxiety and improving quality of life.
Abstract
Although long known for their psychoactive effects, psychedelic drugs have only recently been investigated for medicinal use. Psilocybin has attrac...
Results From a Long-Term Observational Follow-Up Study of a Single Dose of Psilocybin for a Treatment-Resistant Episode of Major Depressive Disorder.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – March 03, 2025
Summary
A single high-dose psilocybin treatment helped people with hard-to-treat depression stay well longer than lower doses. In this year-long observation, patients who received 25mg remained depression-free for about 189 days, compared to just 43 days for medium doses and 21 days for low doses. The treatment proved safe, with minimal side effects, offering hope for those who haven't responded to traditional antidepressants.
Abstract
Background: The largest randomized study of psilocybin to date demonstrated the efficacy of COMP360 25 mg (Compass Pathways' investigational propri...
Early psilocybin intervention alleviates behavioral despair and cognitive impairment in stressed Wistar rats
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin dramatically reduced stress-induced behavioral despair and cognitive impairment in a recent *Psychedelics and Drug Studies* investigation. Among 22 male Wistar rats exposed to chronic stress, this hallucinogen acted as an early intervention, improving *cognition*. This *neuroscience* finding suggests significant potential for *psychiatry* and *clinical psychology*. A *psychotherapist* might eventually consider such approaches. Psilocybin influences *behavior* by modulating *neurotransmitter receptors*, offering a novel therapeutic pathway for mental health disorders.
Abstract
Chronic stress exerts profound effects on mental health, contributing to disorders such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. This stud...
Compass Psychological Support Model for COMP360 Psilocybin Treatment of Serious Mental Health Conditions
American Journal of Psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
Ensuring robust psychological support is paramount when using the hallucinogen psilocybin for mental health. The Compass Psychological Support Model (CPSM) provides a structured framework, guiding psychotherapists to deliver safe, meaningful experiences for individuals in clinical trials receiving investigational COMP360 psilocybin treatment. This approach, vital to clinical psychology and psychiatry, optimizes the therapeutic potential of this medicine, a compound derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids. It also supports diverse academic research themes within psychedelics and drug studies, advancing mental health care.
Abstract
The psychedelic experience can be challenging. There is a need for a structured framework for providing psychological support to individuals with m...
ALSUntangled #77: Psilocybin
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Degeneration – December 22, 2024
Summary
Despite psilocybin, a naturally derived hallucinogen and alkaloid, showing plausible neurological mechanisms influencing neurogenesis and inflammation, zero pre-clinical models, case reports, or trials currently support its use in medicine for ALS. While its action on neurotransmitter receptors could influence behavior, significant psychological side effects, including hallucinations, pose high risks. Given this, and its historical context in drug studies, psilocybin isn't currently supported for ALS therapy, even with potential psychiatric or psychotherapist guidance.
Abstract
ALSUntangled reviews alternate and off-label treatments prompted by patient interest. Here, we review psilocybin, a chemical derived from mushrooms...
The role of the psychedelic experience in psilocybin treatment for treatment-resistant depression.
Journal of affective disorders – March 01, 2025
Summary
Higher doses of psilocybin create more profound psychedelic experiences, which strongly correlate with better outcomes in people with treatment-resistant depression. A single dose, combined with psychological support, showed that participants who reported deeper mystical experiences and visual effects were more likely to see significant improvements in their depression symptoms after three weeks.
Abstract
To determine the relationships between psilocybin dose, psychedelic experiences, and therapeutic outcome in treatment-resistant depression. For tre...
Psilocybin and Motor Function: A Triple‐Blind, Dose‐Finding Study in Healthy Participants
Psychiatric Research and Clinical Practice – July 23, 2024
Summary
While the hallucinogen psilocybin profoundly affects cognition and perception, its impact on motor function, crucial for physical medicine and rehabilitation, remains unexplored. A groundbreaking study in psychology and neuroscience will administer psilocybin (5-20 mg) to 12 healthy participants to assess movement tasks and safety. This research is vital for understanding psychedelics in medicine, informing future psychiatric interventions, and exploring novel therapeutic avenues.
Abstract
Background There has been a resurgence of research into the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics for neuropsychiatric disorders. Classic ...
Low‐dose psilocybin in short‐lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks: results from an open‐label phase Ib ascending dose study
Headache The Journal of Head and Face Pain – September 20, 2024
Summary
Two participants with severe headache attacks experienced over 50% fewer daily episodes after low-dose psilocybin, a chemical synthesis alkaloid. This open-label trial explored psilocybin's tolerability as a potential medicine for debilitating SUNHA, a condition related to migraine. Administering ascending doses (5-10mg) to three completers, no significant adverse effects were recorded, indicating good safety. While not definitive, these Psychedelics and Drug Studies, alongside Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, suggest psychological insights from the experience, rather than direct anesthesia, may be key to pain management.
Abstract
Abstract Background Short‐lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks (SUNHA) are trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias that feature intense and r...
Co-administration of midazolam and psilocybin: differential effects on subjective quality versus memory of the psychedelic experience.
Translational psychiatry – September 12, 2024
Summary
Memories of psychedelic experiences may be key to their therapeutic benefits. When researchers combined psilocybin with midazolam (a memory-affecting medication), participants still had meaningful psychedelic experiences but remembered less of them. The weaker their memories, the less insight and well-being they reported afterward, suggesting that retaining the experience matters for positive outcomes.
Abstract
Aspects of the acute experience induced by the serotonergic psychedelic psilocybin predict symptomatic relief in multiple psychiatric disorders and...
Comparison between Single-Dose and Two-Dose Psilocybin Administration in the Treatment of Major Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Current Clinical Trials
Brain Sciences – August 18, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, offers significant hope for major depressive disorder (MDD) and treatment-resistant depression. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 clinical trial studies found this psychological intervention highly effective. Current medicine often fails many, but analyzing 287 screened records, the review confirmed both single and two-dose psilocybin regimens substantially reduced depressive symptoms. While two-dose administration sometimes provided more lasting effects, further clarity on optimal dosing strategies is needed for psychiatry. This represents a compelling advance in mental health treatment.
Abstract
Current pharmacological treatments for major depressive disorder (MDD) are often only partially effective, with many patients experiencing no signi...
Do the therapeutic effects of psilocybin involve actions in the gut?
Trends in pharmacological sciences – February 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin's therapeutic benefits may start in an unexpected place: your gut. New evidence suggests this psychedelic compound works along the gut-brain axis, activating serotonin receptors in both the digestive system and brain. Through the vagus nerve pathway, these actions may enhance neuroplasticity and improve mental health. The gut's high concentration of serotonin receptors could be key to understanding how psychedelics create positive changes.
Abstract
The psychedelic compound psilocybin has recently emerged as a therapeutic intervention for various mental health conditions. Psilocybin is a potent...