Psilocybin in the Management of Substance Use Disorders: A Summary ofCurrent Evidence
Current Psychopharmacologye – July 04, 2024
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, holds significant promise in psychology and psychiatry, sparking interest for substance use disorders. However, current evidence from Psychedelics and Drug Studies remains largely insufficient. Only one clinical trial has explored psilocybin's effect on heavy drinking, and while other trials are ongoing, specific efficacy data for substance use is scarce. Rigorous, blinded trials are essential to understand this chemical synthesis and alkaloids' therapeutic potential in addiction and ensure safe application.
Abstract
Background: Following clinical trials on psilocybin for the treatment of pain, anxiety, and depression in patients with cancer, scientific interest emerged in its use for substance use disorders. Methods: In this review of the literature, we summarize available trials looking at the use of psilocybin in addiction Results: One double-blind, randomized clinical trial looked at the effect of psilocybin on heavy drinking in adults diagnosed with alcohol dependence. Several trials are currently ongoing to assess psilocybin’s efficacy in the management of different SUDs. Otherwise, the current evidence is insufficient to derive any conclusions on the possible efficacy of psilocybin in substance use disorders. Conclusions: More well-powered, blinded, randomized controlled trials are needed to investigate the possible therapeutic effects of psilocybin in addiction while identifying the appropriate conditions that promote its safe use.