A new study published this week is the latest to show that psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, can be an effective treatment for depression. A randomized phase II trial found that a single dose of psilocybin in combination with therapy significantly reduced symptoms of depression compared with placebo over 6 weeks. Those taking psilocybin also experienced significant improvements in quality of life.
The research published Published in JAMA magazine on Thursday. The study involved 104 adults diagnosed with at least moderate clinical depression. Volunteers were randomly assigned to receive a single dose of 25 milligrams of psilocybin or niacin in conjunction with several treatment sessions. Niacin was chosen as a placebo because it can induce temporary physical sensations such as skin flushing, making it difficult for volunteers to know which group they belong to. . The therapy included a dosing day session and a “post-dosing integration session” where people were encouraged to talk about their experiences.
Both groups were followed for 43 days, or only about 6 weeks. By the end of the study period, the researchers found that combining psilocybin and treatment yielded “rapid and durable antidepressant effects.”
Based on standard measurement scales, the group taking psilocybin reported significantly lower levels of depression on average compared to placebo. The observed therapeutic responses also appeared to be longer lasting in patients taking psilocybin. And the psilocybin group reported significant improvements in daily functioning and overall quality of life. People taking psilocybin experienced a higher rate of adverse events, but no serious events clearly related to treatment were documented, the authors say.
Phase II trials alone cannot provide conclusive evidence that a drug or treatment works as intended. but, Research continues to suggest that psilocybin adjuvant therapy may be a viable option for some depressed patients.A similar phase II trial published For example, last November, patients with treatment-resistant depression were found to experience significant relief after taking a single dose of psilocybin along with psychological support.
“These findings add to the evidence that psilocybin may hold promise as a new intervention for depression when administered with psychological support,” the authors of the latest paper say. ing. Research wrote.
Based on these promising results, at least one group launched A large phase III trial of psilocybin adjuvant therapy will be conducted this year. If these trials are positive, they will provide the necessary evidence for regulatory approval of psilocybin for depression. Other researchers are studying psilocybin for other conditions such as: alcohol use disorder. There are also local efforts underway in the United States. legalize psilocybin Medicinal.
