Research
Psilocybin
99 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.
Studies
Sorted by quality and recency
The effects of psilocybin on psychological distress in cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
A systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the safety and effectiveness of psilocybin in treating psychological distress in cancer patients. Psilocybin significantly reduced depressive symptoms, with mixed effects on anxiety and improvements in spiritual well-being and quality of life. The findings are preliminary due to the small number of studies and high heterogeneity.
Incremental efficacy systematic review and meta-analysis of psilocybin-for-depression RCTs.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of psilocybin-for-depression RCTs involving 602 participants. Psilocybin was moderately superior to controls at reducing depression, with a significant effect size. However, studies showed high risk of bias and variable harm reporting. Mechanisms of action were discussed but rarely assessed.
Psilocybin and chronic neuropathic pain: a systematic review.
This systematic review evaluates the evidence for psilocybin in the treatment of chronic pain, focusing on dosing protocols, treated conditions, and patient outcomes. The review identified 28 studies, mostly of low or very low quality, suggesting promise for psilocybin in chronic pain relief despite the need for further high-quality research.
Efficacy and Safety of Psilocybin for the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders: A Systematic Review.
Systematic review assessing the safety and efficacy of psilocybin for Substance Use Disorders (SUDs), summarizing 26 ongoing clinical trials and 16 published studies. Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy showed significant reductions in alcohol consumption and smoking cessation, with psychological improvements. Preliminary evidence supports psilocybin's efficacy and safety for Alcohol Use Disorder and Tobacco Use Disorder, but larger clinical trials are needed.
Neurobiological mechanisms of antidepressant properties of psilocybin: A systematic review of blood biomarkers.
Systematic review of human studies investigating changes in blood-based biomarkers of major depressive disorder following psilocybin administration. Findings suggest psilocybin may lead to beneficial effects on biomarkers such as interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, though further research is needed.
Catalyst for change: Psilocybin's antidepressant mechanisms-A systematic review.
Systematic review of 15 studies exploring psilocybin's antidepressant mechanisms. Psilocybin promoted openness, cognitive and neural flexibility, and emotional acceptance, with altered brain dynamics and increased connectivity. The review suggests psilocybin may induce antidepressant effects through neurobiological and psychological mechanisms within a supportive context.
Breaking the chains of depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis of psilocybin therapy.
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the therapeutic function of psilocybin for mental and psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, major depressive disorder, and mood disorders. The results indicate psilocybin's potential as a potent treatment, showing significant symptom reduction and sustained improvements after a single therapy session.
Neurocognitive effects of psilocybin: A systematic and comprehensive review of neuroimaging studies in humans.
Systematic review of neuroimaging studies on psilocybin's effects on brain activity and connectivity. Psilocybin impacts neuronal networks, alters self-experience, sensory and emotional processing, and has sustained effects on mood, personality, and social functioning. Clinical outcomes in depression correlate with brain changes.
Therapeutic Use of Psilocybin in Depression: a Systematic Review of Clinical Evidence.
Systematic review of 22 studies on psilocybin's efficacy and safety for depression, including RCTs and open-label studies. Psilocybin therapy shows substantial and rapid antidepressant effects, often after one or two sessions, with improvements sustained for weeks or months. Generally well-tolerated with mild adverse effects.
A dose of therapy with psilocybin - A meta-analysis of the relationship between the amount of therapy hours and treatment outcomes in psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Meta-analysis investigated the relationship between therapy hours and treatment outcomes in psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression. The overall treatment effect was large, but no significant association was found between therapy hours and outcomes. Findings suggest therapy hours may not influence depressive outcomes in PAT, though caution is advised due to small sample sizes and heterogeneity.
Mapping psilocybin therapy: A systematic review of therapeutic frameworks, adaptations, and standardization across contemporary clinical trials.
Systematic review of psilocybin therapy protocols across 22 clinical trials for various mental health conditions. The review highlights consistency in therapeutic structure but notes variability in therapeutic intensity and standardization measures, which may affect replicability and generalizability.
Impact of psilocybin on cognitive function: A systematic review.
Systematic review assessing psilocybin's effect on cognitive function across 20 studies with 2,959 participants. Mixed results were found: global cognitive function and processing speed mostly unchanged, some improvements in sustained attention, working memory, and executive function in TRD patients. Emotional processing and empathy were positively affected, while cognitive flexibility and creative cognition initially declined but may improve over time.
Acute Adverse Effects of Therapeutic Doses of Psilocybin: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the acute adverse effects of therapeutic doses of psilocybin in the treatment of depression and anxiety. Six studies with 528 participants were included, identifying significant adverse effects such as headache, nausea, anxiety, dizziness, and elevated blood pressure. Psilocybin use was not associated with paranoia or transient thought disorder.
Efficacy and acceptability of psilocybin for primary or secondary depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 10 studies evaluating psilocybin for depression, including 8 studies with 524 patients. Psilocybin showed a large effect size favoring its use for depression, with both short-term and long-term antidepressant effects. Adverse events were generally transient and reversible.
The association between diverse psychological protocols and the efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy for clinical depressive symptoms: a Bayesian meta-analysis.
Bayesian meta-analysis of 10 studies with 515 patients examining the efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy for clinical depressive symptoms. The study found that the improvement in depressive symptoms was not significantly associated with the type of psychological protocol used alongside psilocybin treatment.
Psilocybin for major depressive disorder: a systematic review of randomized controlled studies.
Systematic review of RCTs evaluating psilocybin for major depressive disorder (MDD) in 472 adults. Psilocybin showed beneficial effects on depressive symptoms in 60% of studies and improved anxiety symptoms in 80% of studies. Discontinuation rates and adverse drug reactions were similar between psilocybin and control groups.
Efficacy of psilocybin for treating symptoms of depression: systematic review and meta-analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of psilocybin's efficacy as an antidepressant compared to placebo or non-psychoactive drugs. Meta-analysis of 436 participants showed a significant benefit of psilocybin on depression scores, with larger effects in secondary depression and among those with previous psychedelic use. Moderate certainty of evidence was found.
Randomized Controlled Trials of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy in the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 6 RCTs (pooled N=427) on psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depressive disorder. Psilocybin showed superior antidepressant effects compared to comparator interventions, with medium effect sizes up to 6 weeks post-intervention. The therapy group had a small increased risk of adverse events, including headache and dizziness.
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.
This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy and safety of psilocybin in treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) through a dose-response network meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials. Psilocybin significantly reduced symptoms compared to placebo at Days 8 and 15, with a 25 mg dose being the most effective. However, it was associated with a higher risk of adverse events, particularly nausea.
The impact of antidepressant discontinuation prior to treatment with psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression.
Post hoc analysis of a phase II RCT with 233 participants with treatment-resistant depression, comparing psilocybin treatment efficacy between those who discontinued antidepressants and those who were antidepressant-free. Psilocybin treatment efficacy and subjective psychedelic experience were not compromised by antidepressant discontinuation.
The safety of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy: A systematic review.
Systematic review of 24 clinical trials on psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for treatment-resistant depression, focusing on adverse events. Common adverse events included elevated blood pressure, headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and anxiety. Suicidal ideation and behavior were infrequent and mainly observed in participants with a history of suicidality. The review supports the general safety of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy but emphasizes the need for standardized adverse event reporting.
The effects of psilocybin on cognition and emotional processing in healthy adults and adults with depression: a systematic literature review.
Systematic review of 20 articles examining the effects of psilocybin on cognition and emotional processing in healthy adults and adults with depression. Findings indicate impairments in attentional and inhibitory processes, and improvements in creativity and social cognition in healthy individuals. In depressed individuals, cognitive flexibility and emotional recognition were enhanced. The review highlights the need for further research with standardized protocols.
Comparative oral monotherapy of psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ayahuasca, and escitalopram for depressive symptoms: systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis.
Systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis comparing the effectiveness of oral monotherapy using psychedelics and escitalopram for depressive symptoms. High dose psilocybin showed better responses than placebo in antidepressant trials, but the effect size was small. None of the interventions were associated with higher all cause discontinuation or severe adverse events than placebo.
A comparison between psilocybin and esketamine in treatment-resistant depression using number needed to treat (NNT): A systematic review.
Systematic review comparing the clinical efficacy of oral psilocybin to intranasal esketamine with an oral antidepressant in adults with Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD). Psilocybin showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms at 21-days post-dose with an NNT of 5, while esketamine showed significant effects at 28-days post-dose with NNTs of 7. Both substances had clinically acceptable NNH profiles.
Protocols and practices in psilocybin assisted psychotherapy for depression: A systematic review.
Systematic review of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) protocols for treating depression and distress in life-threatening illnesses. The review highlights variability and inconsistencies in therapy protocols, emphasizing the need for clearer definitions and reporting of psychotherapeutic components.
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression, including 13 studies with a pooled sample size of 596. The meta-analysis showed a large effect size in favor of psilocybin for reducing depressive symptoms, providing preliminary evidence for its antidepressant efficacy.
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of human studies.
Systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of psilocybin for depression, including seven studies with 489 participants. The analysis determined effective doses for primary and secondary depression, with significant dose-response associations observed. Side effects such as physical discomfort and risk of prolonged psychosis were noted.
Single-dose psilocybin for a treatment-resistant episode of major depression: Impact on patient-reported depression severity, anxiety, function, and quality of life.
Phase 2 double-blind RCT of 233 participants with treatment-resistant depression comparing single doses of psilocybin (25 mg, 10 mg, 1 mg control) with psychological support. Psilocybin 25 mg showed greater improvements in depression severity, anxiety, affect, and functioning at Week 3 compared to 1 mg.
Therapeutic effect of psilocybin in addiction: A systematic review.
Systematic review assessing the efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy in patients with substance use disorders (SUDs), including alcohol and tobacco use disorders. The review included four studies with a total of 151 patients, showing beneficial effects of psilocybin on SUD symptoms. Larger RCTs are needed to further evaluate its effectiveness.
Systematic Review of Interventions for Demoralization in Patients With Cancer.
Systematic review of interventions for demoralization in cancer patients, including psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy and psychological interventions. Out of 14 studies, 10 showed a positive effect on improving demoralization.
The Tolerability and Safety of Psilocybin in Psychiatric and Substance-Dependence Conditions: A Systematic Review.
Systematic review assessing the tolerability and safety of psilocybin in psychiatric and substance-dependence conditions. Common adverse effects included transient nausea, headache, and anxiety. Psilocybin showed modest increases in blood pressure and heart rate, with no cases of induced psychosis or Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder reported.
Neurobiological Correlates of Psilocybin Response in Depression.
Systematic review of neuroimaging studies on psilocybin response in depressed patients. The review included 5 studies, with 4 open-label and 1 combined open-label and randomized controlled trial. Psilocybin-induced brain changes were associated with antidepressant response, resembling a 'brain reset' phenomenon.
The therapeutic potential of psilocybin: a systematic review.
Systematic review of 11 studies (15 publications) on psilocybin's clinical effects in treating mental disorders. Psilocybin showed a positive benefit-risk balance with immediate and prolonged effects following 1-3 doses, often combined with psychotherapy. Larger double-blind RCTs are needed for confirmation.
Single-Dose Psilocybin for a Treatment-Resistant Episode of Major Depression.
Phase 2 double-blind trial of a single dose of psilocybin in adults with treatment-resistant depression. The 25 mg dose significantly reduced depression scores more than the 1 mg dose over 3 weeks, but was associated with adverse effects. Larger trials are needed to assess efficacy and safety.
A Research Domain Criteria (RDoC)-Guided Dashboard to Review Psilocybin Target Domains: A Systematic Review.
Systematic review using the RDoC framework to synthesize literature on psilocybin's effects on mental health measures. The review found beneficial effects on positive valence systems, negative valence systems, and social processes, with some dyscognitive effects reported. The study suggests psilocybin has multi-domain effectiveness and highlights the need for further research.
Esketamine and Psilocybin-The Comparison of Two Mind-Altering Agents in Depression Treatment: Systematic Review.
Systematic review comparing esketamine and psilocybin for depression treatment. Psilocybin showed antidepressive effects one day after intake and maintained effects for up to 6-8 months. Esketamine showed significant reduction in depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation shortly after intake and after a month of treatment.
[The use of psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression].
Systematic review of psilocybin as a treatment for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Psilocybin showed significant antidepressant efficacy in certain groups, with effects comparable to the SSRI escitalopram. Psilocybin-COMP360 treatment led to rapid response and remission in a phase 2 study.
Don't be afraid, try to meditate- potential effects on neural activity and connectivity of psilocybin-assisted mindfulness-based intervention for social anxiety disorder: A systematic review.
Systematic review of 30 experimental studies on the neural effects of meditation or psilocybin treatment. Suggests psilocybin-assisted meditation interventions might modulate neural connectivity and cognitive processes related to social anxiety disorder.
Dose effect of psilocybin on primary and secondary depression: a preliminary systematic review and meta-analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis exploring the dose effects of psilocybin on primary and secondary depression. The study found that psilocybin has a significant antidepressant effect, with optimal therapeutic effects at doses of 30-35 mg/70 kg. The antidepressive effect was particularly significant at higher doses and in primary depression patients.
Dose-response relationships of psilocybin-induced subjective experiences in humans.
Meta-analysis using a linear meta-regression approach to establish dose-response relationships of psilocybin-induced subjective experiences in healthy participants and patient groups. Psilocybin dose positively correlated with perceptual alterations and ego dissolution, with small effects on challenging experiences.
The experimental effects of psilocybin on symptoms of anxiety and depression: A meta-analysis.
Meta-analysis examined the effects of psilocybin combined with behavioral interventions on anxiety and depression in samples with elevated symptoms. Across four studies, significant improvements in anxiety and depression were observed, with large effect sizes. No serious adverse events were reported.
Psilocybin microdosing in the United States: Insights from a nationally representative survey.
A nationally representative survey in the US examined psilocybin microdosing, finding that 12.1% of adults have used psilocybin, with 26.5% reporting microdosing the last time they used. Microdosing was associated with improved physical and mental health, and those who used psilocybin recently were more likely to microdose.
Microdosing psilocybin and its effect on creativity: Lessons learned from three double-blind placebo controlled longitudinal trials.
Three double-blind placebo-controlled longitudinal trials assessed the effects of microdosing psilocybin on creativity in a semi-naturalistic setting. Active microdosing increased the quality of divergent thinking, with significant effects on originality scores when considering relative dosage. No effects were found for other divergent-thinking scores or convergent thinking.
Multidimensional Personality Changes Following Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy in Patients With Alcohol Use Disorder: Results From a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.
RCT of 84 adults with alcohol use disorder comparing psilocybin-assisted therapy to active placebo (diphenhydramine) over 36 weeks. Psilocybin group showed significant reductions in neuroticism and increases in extraversion and openness, with reductions in impulsiveness associated with lower alcohol consumption.
Cognitive and Subjective Effects of Psilocybin Microdosing: Results from Two Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Longitudinal Trials.
Two double-blind, placebo-controlled trials examined the effects of psilocybin microdosing on cognitive control, memory, social cognition, and subjective well-being. Microdosing did not significantly affect behavioral or subjective measures compared to placebo, although some initial effects were observed in social cognition and mood. Participants reported positive subjective experiences but also enhanced negative bodily feelings in the active condition.
Assessing expectancy and suggestibility in a trial of escitalopram v. psilocybin for depression.
RCT comparing escitalopram and investigational drug, COMP360 psilocybin, for major depressive disorder. Higher expectancy for psilocybin was not predictive of response, while expectancy for escitalopram was associated with improved outcomes. Pre-treatment trait suggestibility was linked to response in the psilocybin arm.
Striking Long Term Beneficial Effects of Single Dose Psilocybin and Psychedelic Mushroom Extract in the SAPAP3 Rodent Model of OCD-Like Excessive Self-Grooming
RCT in SAPAP3 KO mice model of OCD-like behavior, testing single dose psilocybin and psychedelic mushroom extract. Both treatments reduced self-grooming, head-body twitches, and anxiety over 21 days, with effects lasting up to 7 weeks. Psychedelic mushroom extract showed superior effects on head-body twitches and anxiety.
Naturalistic psilocybin use is associated with persisting improvements in mental health and wellbeing: results from a prospective, longitudinal survey
Prospective longitudinal survey of 2,833 adults using psilocybin mushrooms outside clinical settings. Results showed persisting reductions in anxiety, depression, and alcohol misuse, and improvements in cognitive flexibility, emotion regulation, and spiritual wellbeing. A minority reported persisting negative effects.
Psilocybin microdosers demonstrate greater observed improvements in mood and mental health at one month relative to non-microdosing controls
Observational study of 953 psilocybin microdosers and 180 non-microdosing controls over 30 days. Psilocybin microdosers showed small- to medium-sized improvements in mood and mental health. Combining psilocybin with lion's mane and niacin was associated with psychomotor improvements in older adults.
[Psilocybin compared with escitalopram for depression].
Double blind randomized controlled trial comparing psilocybin with psychotherapy to escitalopram with psychotherapy for depression. Psilocybin yielded an antidepressant effect comparable to escitalopram. The commentary discusses implications for clinical practice and challenges in psychedelic research.
Increased global integration in the brain after psilocybin therapy for depression.
Two clinical trials assessed the impact of psilocybin on brain function in depression. An open-label trial and a double-blind RCT showed rapid and sustained antidepressant responses to psilocybin, correlated with increased brain network integration. Psilocybin's effects were more pronounced than escitalopram, which showed no changes in brain network organization.
Microdosing With Psilocybin Mushrooms: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study
A double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over randomized trial found that microdosed psilocybin did not improve mood, well-being, creativity, or cognition. Positivity bias may have influenced previous favorable outcomes.
Adults who microdose psychedelics report health related motivations and lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to non-microdosers
Observational study using a mobile application to compare microdosers (n=4050) and non-microdosers (n=4653) of psychedelics, primarily psilocybin. Microdosers reported lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, with health and wellness-related motives being prominent.
Trial of Psilocybin versus Escitalopram for Depression.
Phase 2, double-blind, randomized controlled trial comparing psilocybin with escitalopram in patients with moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder over 6 weeks. Psilocybin showed a greater reduction in depression scores and higher remission rates compared to escitalopram, but the primary outcome did not show a significant difference. Secondary outcomes generally favored psilocybin, though analyses were not corrected for multiple comparisons.
Psilocybin microdosing does not affect emotion-related symptoms and processing: A preregistered field and lab-based study
This preregistered study used a double-blind, placebo-controlled, within-subject crossover design to investigate the effects of psilocybin microdosing on emotion processing and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Results showed that psilocybin microdosing did not affect emotion processing or symptoms of anxiety and depression compared with placebo.
Acute Effects of Psilocybin After Escitalopram or Placebo Pretreatment in a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study in Healthy Subjects.
This study investigated the response to psilocybin in healthy subjects after pretreatment with escitalopram or placebo using a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design. Escitalopram pretreatment significantly reduced adverse effects of psilocybin compared with placebo, but did not alter the pharmacokinetics of psilocin or other measured parameters.
Microdosing psilocybin for major depressive disorder: study protocol for a phase II double-blind placebo-controlled randomised partial crossover trial
This study protocol outlines a phase II, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised partial crossover trial to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and preliminary antidepressant effects of microdosing psilocybin in 40 adults with major depressive disorder. The trial will compare four doses of psilocybin (2 mg) to placebo over 4 weeks, followed by an open-label phase with psilocybin for an additional 4 weeks, with primary efficacy measured by changes in depression symptoms.
Reduced Brain Responsiveness to Emotional Stimuli With Escitalopram But Not Psilocybin Therapy for Depression.
RCT comparing the effects of psilocybin and escitalopram on neural responses to emotional stimuli in patients with major depression. Psilocybin therapy showed large improvements in depressive symptoms but had only a minor effect on brain responsiveness to emotional stimuli, unlike escitalopram, which reduced emotional responsiveness.
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for depression and anxiety associated with life threatening illness: A phase 2b randomized controlled trial.
Phase 2b RCT evaluating psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy versus active placebo in adults with life-threatening illnesses. Psilocybin significantly reduced depression and anxiety symptoms compared to placebo, with benefits sustained at 26 weeks. No serious adverse events occurred, though mild-to-moderate adverse events were more common with psilocybin.
Long-term benefits of single-dose psilocybin in depressed patients with cancer.
Phase 2 trial of a single 25 mg dose of psilocybin combined with psychological support in 30 cancer patients with major depressive disorder. At 2 years' follow-up, 53.6% showed significant reduction in depression and 46.4% in anxiety, suggesting robust antidepressive activity.
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for treatment resistant depression: A randomized clinical trial evaluating repeated doses of psilocybin.
RCT evaluating psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy in adults with treatment-resistant depression. Participants received one to three psilocybin sessions with psychotherapy. Greater reductions in depression severity were observed in the immediate treatment arm compared to the waitlist control, with repeated doses further reducing depression severity.
Neural mechanisms of psychedelic visual imagery.
A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, cross-over study investigated the neural mechanisms of psychedelic visual imagery in 24 healthy adults using psilocybin. The study applied dynamic causal modelling to resting state eyes-closed fMRI scans, revealing increased self-inhibition in visual regions and enhanced top-down connectivity during visual imagery.
Patient perspectives and experiences with psilocybin treatment for treatment-resistant depression: a qualitative study.
Qualitative study exploring experiences of 11 TRD patients in a double-blind RCT with a single session of oral psilocybin treatment. Identified themes include trust-building, navigating the experience, and the need for comprehensive treatment, providing insights into optimizing psilocybin treatment for TRD.
Psilocybin-assisted group therapy in patients with cancer diagnosed with a major depressive disorder.
Phase 2 open-label trial of psilocybin-assisted therapy in patients with cancer and major depressive disorder. A single 25-mg dose of psilocybin was administered with individual and group therapeutic support. The study found a robust reduction in depression severity scores, with 80% of participants showing a sustained response and 50% achieving full remission of depressive symptoms at week 1, sustained for 8 weeks.
Psilocybin for treatment resistant depression in patients taking a concomitant SSRI medication.
This phase II, open-label study explored the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of a synthetic form of psilocybin (COMP360) adjunct to an SSRI in participants with treatment-resistant depression. Participants received a single 25 mg dose of psilocybin and were followed for 3 weeks. The study found a mean change in MADRS total score of -14.9, with 42.1% of participants showing response and remission.
Sub-acute effects of psilocybin on EEG correlates of neural plasticity in major depression: Relationship to symptoms.
This double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the effects of psilocybin on EEG correlates of neuroplasticity and depression symptoms in individuals with major depressive disorder. Psilocybin increased EEG theta power and improved depression symptoms, suggesting potential mechanisms for its antidepressant effects.
Psilocybin therapy for females with anorexia nervosa: a phase 1, open-label feasibility study.
Open-label feasibility study of 10 adult female participants with anorexia nervosa receiving a single 25-mg dose of synthetic psilocybin with psychological support. The study assessed safety, tolerability, and feasibility, finding no clinically significant changes in ECG, vital signs, or suicidality. Two participants developed asymptomatic hypoglycemia, which resolved within 24 hours. All adverse events were mild and transient.
Microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms: a double-blind placebo-controlled study.
Double-blind placebo-controlled study of 34 individuals microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms. The study found noticeable subjective effects and altered EEG rhythms, but no evidence supporting enhanced well-being, creativity, or cognitive function. Some small changes towards cognitive impairment were observed.
Efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted treatment for major depressive disorder: Prospective 12-month follow-up.
This randomized, waiting-list controlled study examined the efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted treatment in 27 patients with moderate to severe major depressive disorder over 12 months. Large decreases in depression scores were observed, with 75% treatment response and 58% remission at 12 months. No serious adverse events related to psilocybin were reported.
Microevidence for microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms: a double-blind placebo-controlled study of subjective effects, behavior, creativity, perception, cognition, and brain activity
Double-blind placebo-controlled study of 34 individuals microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms. The study found that acute effects were more intense for the active dose compared to placebo, with trends towards cognitive impairment and reduced theta band spectral power in EEG.
Effects of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy on Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
This randomized clinical trial investigated the effect of psilocybin therapy in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Participants received two psilocybin sessions with supportive psychotherapy. The immediate treatment group showed significant reductions in depression severity compared to the delayed treatment group, with large effect sizes and a high percentage of participants achieving clinically significant responses and remission.
Emotions and brain function are altered up to one month after a single high dose of psilocybin.
Open-label pilot study with 12 healthy volunteers assessing the effects of a single high dose of psilocybin on mood and brain function. One-week post-psilocybin, negative affect and amygdala response were reduced, while positive affect and brain responses to emotional stimuli increased. One-month post-psilocybin, negative affect returned to baseline, but positive affect and brain connectivity remained elevated.
Psilocybin produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer: A randomized double-blind trial.
This randomized, double-blind, cross-over trial studied the effects of psilocybin in 51 cancer patients with depression and anxiety. High-dose psilocybin produced substantial decreases in depression and anxiety, with improvements in quality of life and life satisfaction sustained at 6-month follow-up.
Development of Psilocybe Mushroom Species Reference Material—Cultivation Parameters and Chemical Profiles
The study describes the cultivation and chemical profiling of six Psilocybe mushroom species under controlled conditions. High-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) was used to quantify psilocybin and psilocin, and identify other psychoactive compounds. Species-specific differences in compound concentrations were observed, with P. zapotecorum having the highest psilocybin content.
Salience, sensemaking, and setting in psilocybin microdosing: Methodological lessons and preliminary findings of a mixed method qualitative study
The study explores the methodological challenges in psilocybin microdosing research by examining how it fits into the broader existential context of participants' lives. Participants reported changes in mental structures, increased salience of external stimuli, and variations in cognitive flexibility and stability. The study highlights the need for systematic mixed methods to better understand the microdosing experience.
Effects of psilocybin microdosing on awe and aesthetic experiences: a preregistered field and lab-based study
The study investigated the effects of psilocybin microdosing on feelings of awe and art perception. Participants self-administered a psilocybin microdose or placebo for three weeks in a blind condition. Results showed increased feelings of awe in response to certain stimuli during microdosing compared to placebo, though expectancy effects may influence perceived benefits.
Metabolic engineering of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the de novo production of psilocybin and related tryptamine derivatives
The study demonstrates the de novo biosynthetic production of psilocybin and related tryptamine derivatives in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using a heterologous biosynthesis pathway from Psilocybe cubensis. The engineered strains produced significant amounts of psilocybin and psilocin, along with other tryptamine derivatives, in controlled fed-batch fermentations.
Effect of Psilocybin on Empathy and Moral Decision-Making.
RCT investigating the acute effect of psilocybin on empathy and moral decision-making in healthy human subjects. Psilocybin significantly increased emotional empathy but did not affect moral decision-making.
Psilocybin with psychological support for treatment-resistant depression: six-month follow-up.
Open-label trial of psilocybin in 20 patients with treatment-resistant major depression. Two oral doses of psilocybin were administered, resulting in marked reductions in depressive symptoms for up to 6 months post-treatment. The treatment was well tolerated, with significant symptom improvements observed.
Psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression: fMRI-measured brain mechanisms.
This study used fMRI to measure brain mechanisms before and after psilocybin treatment in 19 patients with treatment-resistant depression. Decreased depressive symptoms were observed in all patients at 1-week post-treatment, with 47% meeting criteria for response at 5 weeks. Post-treatment decreases in cerebral blood flow in the temporal cortex and increased resting-state functional connectivity within the default-mode network were observed.
Rapid and sustained symptom reduction following psilocybin treatment for anxiety and depression in patients with life-threatening cancer: a randomized controlled trial.
RCT of 29 cancer patients with anxiety and depression comparing single-dose psilocybin to niacin, both with psychotherapy. Psilocybin produced rapid, substantial, and sustained improvements in anxiety and depression, with enduring effects at 6.5-month follow-up.
Long-term follow-up of psilocybin-facilitated smoking cessation.
Long-term follow-up of a pilot study assessing psilocybin-facilitated smoking cessation in combination with cognitive behavioral therapy. At 12-month follow-up, 67% of participants were confirmed as smoking abstinent, and at long-term follow-up, 60% remained abstinent. Participants rated their psilocybin experiences as highly meaningful.
Psilocybin-assisted treatment for alcohol dependence: a proof-of-concept study.
Single-group proof-of-concept study on psilocybin for alcohol dependence in 10 participants. Psilocybin administration led to significant increases in abstinence and decreases in craving, with effects maintained at 36-week follow-up. No significant treatment-related adverse events were reported.
Homological scaffolds of brain functional networks.
The study investigates the homological structure of functional brain networks in 15 healthy volunteers after intravenous infusion of placebo and psilocybin. It finds that psilocybin induces dramatic changes in the brain's functional patterns, characterized by transient structures of low stability and a few persistent ones not observed with placebo.
Pilot study of psilocybin treatment for anxiety in patients with advanced-stage cancer.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of psilocybin in 12 patients with advanced-stage cancer and anxiety. The study found significant reductions in anxiety and improvements in mood, demonstrating the feasibility and safety of psilocybin treatment.
Psilocybin can occasion mystical-type experiences having substantial and sustained personal meaning and spiritual significance.
This double-blind study evaluated the acute and longer-term psychological effects of a high dose of psilocybin compared to methylphenidate in hallucinogen-naïve adults. Psilocybin produced acute perceptual changes and increased measures of mystical experience. At 2 months, volunteers rated the psilocybin experience as having substantial personal meaning and spiritual significance, with sustained positive changes in attitudes and behavior.
Safety, tolerability, and efficacy of psilocybin in 9 patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
This modified double-blind study investigated the safety, tolerability, and clinical effects of psilocybin in 9 patients with OCD. Psilocybin was administered in doses ranging from sub-hallucinogenic to hallucinogenic. Marked decreases in OCD symptoms were observed in all subjects during testing sessions, with improvements generally lasting past 24 hours. Psilocybin was safely used with no significant adverse effects.
Modulating the rate and rhythmicity of perceptual rivalry alternations with the mixed 5-HT2A and 5-HT1A agonist psilocybin.
This study investigated the effects of psilocybin on binocular rivalry in 12 healthy volunteers under placebo, low-dose, and high-dose conditions. Results showed that psilocybin reduced the rate and rhythmicity of perceptual alternations at 90 minutes post-administration, with some individuals experiencing increased perceptual switch rates beyond pretest levels at 360 minutes. The study suggests serotonergic pathways' involvement in binocular rivalry and psychosis symptoms.
Psilocybin induces schizophrenia-like psychosis in humans via a serotonin-2 agonist action.
Psilocybin, an indoleamine hallucinogen, produces a psychosis-like syndrome in humans resembling schizophrenia. The psychotomimetic effects were blocked by serotonin-2A antagonist ketanserin or risperidone, but increased by haloperidol, suggesting serotonin-2A receptor activation is involved in psilocybin-induced psychosis.
Psilocybin therapy for mood dysfunction in Parkinson's disease: an open-label pilot trial.
Open-label pilot trial examining psilocybin therapy in 12 participants with mild to moderate Parkinson's disease and mood dysfunction. Psilocybin improved non-motor and motor symptoms, cognitive performance, and mood without serious adverse events. Results suggest potential benefits of psilocybin therapy in Parkinson's disease.
Single-Dose Synthetic Psilocybin With Psychotherapy for Treatment-Resistant Bipolar Type II Major Depressive Episodes: A Nonrandomized Open-Label Trial.
A 12-week open-label nonrandomized trial at Sheppard Pratt Hospital investigated the safety and efficacy of a single 25 mg dose of synthetic psilocybin with psychotherapy in 15 participants with treatment-resistant Bipolar II depression. Results showed significant improvements in depression scores at 3 and 12 weeks posttreatment, with 12 participants meeting response and remission criteria.
Antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like activities and acute toxicity evaluation of the Psilocybe cubensis mushroom in experimental models in mice.
The study evaluated the anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects and acute toxicity of Psilocybe cubensis mushroom in mice. Results showed significant antidepressant-like effects and anxiolytic-like effects without neurotoxicity, with psilocybin and psilocin identified in the AQ extraction.
Mushrooms, Microdosing, and Mental Illness: The Effect of Psilocybin on Neurotransmitters, Neuroinflammation, and Neuroplasticity
Narrative review discussing the effects of psilocybin, the active ingredient in Psilocybe mushrooms, on neurotransmitters, neuroinflammation, and neuroplasticity. Psilocybin has shown benefits in mood disorders and may offer a safe alternative to full doses for conditions where inflammation is a key factor.
Prolonged adverse effects from repeated psilocybin use in an underground psychedelic therapy training program: a case report
Case report of a psychologist undergoing psychedelic therapy training with repeated high doses of psilocybin-containing mushrooms, leading to prolonged adverse effects such as severe sleep impairment, anhedonia, and suicidal ideation. Symptoms resolved after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Highlights tensions between legal and underground psychedelic use and the need for awareness of potential conflicts in treatment approaches.
Psilocybin Microdosing for Anxiety Relief in Young Adults: A Comparative Review of Emerging Evidence
This narrative review evaluates emerging evidence on psilocybin microdosing for anxiety relief in young adults. Findings suggest psilocybin microdosing improves mood, reduces anxiety symptoms, and enhances emotional resilience and mental well-being. It modulates serotonin receptors and promotes neural plasticity, with short-term benefits including increased focus and cognitive flexibility.
Psilocybin Fungi Unveiled: Morphological Characteristics and Pharmacological Potentials
This review explores the morphology, pharmacognostic properties, and pharmacological activities of psilocybin-producing fungi, focusing on psilocybin's mechanism of action and therapeutic potential in mental health treatments. It highlights the potential of psilocybin in managing depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.
Less is more? A review of psilocybin microdosing
This semi-structured review identifies and highlights research gaps in the field of psilocybin microdosing. It categorizes findings from 40 studies and 8 websites into non-clinical, clinical, observational, and anecdotal evidence, noting the predominance of observational studies. The review emphasizes the need for more randomized placebo-controlled trials and other methodological improvements to draw definitive conclusions about psilocybin microdosing efficacy.
Psilocybin with psychological support for treatment-resistant depression: an open-label feasibility study.
Open-label feasibility study of psilocybin in 12 patients with treatment-resistant depression. Patients received two oral doses of psilocybin with psychological support. Psilocybin was well tolerated, and depressive symptoms were markedly reduced 1 week and 3 months after treatment.
Microdosing psilocybin for chronic pain: a case series.
Case series of three individuals using low dose psilocybin to manage chronic neuropathic pain. Patients reported robust pain relief with decreased reliance on traditional analgesics, without experiencing psychedelic effects. Efficacy was enhanced with functional exercise, and repeated dosing suggested potential long-term benefits.