3085 results for "Psilocybin"
Systematic study of Panaeolus (Agaricales, Galeropsidaceae) sensu lato and psilocybin-producing traits of species from China
Global Biodiversity Information Facility – January 01, 2026
Summary
A new species from China is among two of 14 *Panaeolus sensu lato* species confirmed to produce psilocybin, a key finding in fungal biology. This systematic revision establishes the panaeo-clade as the distinct Galeropsidaceae family. The taxonomy clarifies nomenclature for the Genus *Panaeolus*, now accepting three Subgenus groups, including *Bresadolomyces* with an expanded circumscription. Eight new species were identified, advancing understanding of this species complex and its ecology, extending beyond traditional zoology.
Abstract
This dataset contains the digitized treatments in Plazi based on the original journal article He, Mao-Qiang, Yang, Wen-Qiang, Phurbu, Dorji, Liu, F...
Efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted treatment for major depressive disorder: Prospective 12-month follow-up
Journal of Psychopharmacology – February 01, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapy offers remarkable long-term antidepressant effects for major depressive disorder. A randomized controlled trial with 24 participants showed 75% achieved treatment response and 58% remission after 12 months. Sustained, large decreases in Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (Hamd) scores (Cohen d up to 2.6) were observed. No serious adverse effects occurred within the study's context. This medicine, a psychedelic alkaloid, shows promise for psychiatry and clinical psychology, advancing psychedelics and complementary medicine studies.
Abstract
Background: Preliminary data suggest that psilocybin-assisted treatment produces substantial and rapid antidepressant effects in patients with majo...
Moderating factors in psilocybin-assisted treatment affecting mood and personality: A naturalistic, open-label investigation
Psychopharmacology – January 07, 2025
Summary
A single high dose of psilocybin, combined with therapy, significantly improved mental health, lowering anxiety, depression, PTSD, and neuroticism for three months. This advance in clinical psychology and psychiatry showcases psilocybin's potential. Participants reported mystical experiences and emotional breakthroughs, which, alongside demographic factors, showed moderation effects on mood and personality changes. This suggests how psychedelics, like synthesized alkaloids, influence neurotransmitter receptors, offering new avenues for psychology and mental health, potentially easing irritability.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale Psychedelic-assisted therapy is increasingly applied within mental health treatment. Objectives This study focused on factors mo...
Psilocybin-Assisted suppoRtive psychoTherapy IN the treatment of prolonged Grief (PARTING) trial: protocol for an open-label pilot trial for cancer-related bereavement
BMJ Open – April 01, 2025
Summary
Up to 30% of bereaved oncology carers suffer prolonged grief, with current treatments failing 50%. A new clinical trial explores Psilocybin as Medicine for Grief. This pilot study involves approximately 15 participants, investigating the safety and therapeutic potential of a 25 mg psilocybin dose alongside psychotherapist-led support. Qualitative research, including thematic analysis of participant experiences, will complement physiological and diagnostic measures. This work, part of Diverse academic research themes in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, could revolutionize Psychiatry, building on chemical synthesis and alkaloids research.
Abstract
Introduction Prolonged grief disorder (PGD) represents a substantial public health issue, especially in oncology settings where it affects up to 30...
A Cohort Based Case Series: Learnings from an Iterative Group Therapy Model to Support Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for Patients with a Terminal Diagnosis
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2024
Summary
A new group psychotherapy model successfully helped 21 of 25 participants (84%) facing terminal health conditions. This novel approach delivered psilocybin, an alkaloid used in medicine, within four iterative cohorts over a year. Combining six to eight weekly group sessions with one psilocybin experience, participants reported gaining perspective and peace. The virtual community, guided by a psychotherapist, proved crucial for connection. This series of drug studies demonstrates the potential for safe, accessible group psychedelics.
Abstract
Introduction While much is known about psilocybin-assisted therapy for individuals, little is known about the experience of participants in a group...
Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy: A Review of a Novel Treatment for Psychiatric Disorders
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – May 08, 2017
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin shows compelling promise for psychiatry. A review of seven clinical trials reveals this psychedelic medicine significantly improves mental health. Participants experienced large effect sizes for reduced anxiety and depression symptoms. Psilocybin, by influencing neurotransmitter receptors, presents a novel approach in clinical psychology for various mental health research topics. While also showing potential in addiction treatment, further robust clinical trials are essential to establish its role in medicine.
Abstract
Recent research suggests that functional connectivity changes may be involved in the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders. Hyperconnectivity in...
Long-term Amelioration of OCD Symptoms in a Patient with Chronic Consumption of Psilocybin-containing Mushrooms
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – November 22, 2020
Summary
A man with severe Obsessive Compulsive Disorder experienced a clinically meaningful symptom reduction after consuming psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen. This promising case, significant for Psychiatry and Psychology, underscores the potential of psychoactive substances in Medicine. Given that conventional OCD treatments often fall short, early observations in Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggest compounds like psilocybin could offer new therapeutic avenues. This aligns with growing interest in Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Abstract
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic neuropsychiatric condition, characterized by obsessions and compulsions, which is usually disablin...
Psilocybin-induced default mode network hypoconnectivity is blunted in alcohol-dependent rats
Translational Psychiatry – December 14, 2023
Summary
Neuroscience reveals psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, may require personalized dosing for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). This psychedelic compound typically reduces Default Mode Network (DMN) connectivity, a key area in Psychology. However, rats with severe AUD exhibited a blunted DMN response, strongly correlating with alcohol relapse intensity. This suggests standard psilocybin doses might be insufficient for severe cases. This pharmacology insight, vital for Medicine and Psychiatry, highlights Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior and Tryptophan and brain disorders in AUD treatment.
Abstract
Abstract Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) adversely affects the lives of millions of people, but still lacks effective treatment options. Recent advancem...
The Role of Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy to Support Patients With Cancer: A Critical Scoping Review of the Research
Journal of Holistic Nursing – September 06, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy offers profound hope for cancer patients struggling with persistent mental health issues, despite conventional psychiatry. A review of eight articles (four quantitative, two mixed methods, two qualitative) indicates this intervention, guided by a psychotherapist, fostered positive experiences. Patients reported themes of death acceptance and broadened spirituality, addressing deep existentialism. This emerging approach in clinical psychology and palliative care, utilizing psilocybin (a naturally occurring alkaloid), complements traditional medicine and drug studies, providing a novel mental health strategy in psychedelics and alternative medicine.
Abstract
Treatments for addressing psychiatric mental health issues in vulnerable patients with cancer are established. Yet, many patients persist with unre...
Special considerations for evaluating psilocybin-facilitated psychotherapy in vulnerable populations
Neuropharmacology – May 13, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin-facilitated psychotherapy offers profound promise for mental health. Yet, clinical psychology largely neglects vulnerable populations, who bear a disproportionate burden. Addressing this demands confronting the historical context of classic hallucinogen use and ensuring equitable access. Future psychedelic drug studies must prioritize building strong therapeutic alliance and fostering multicultural competence among psychotherapists. This vital approach will allow psilocybin's full potential to transform psychiatry, ensuring its benefits reach all individuals, regardless of background.
Abstract
Psilocybin-facilitated psychotherapy shows potential transdiagnostic efficacy for a range of mental health conditions. Though vulnerable population...
Qualitative Research on Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy for the Treatment of Mental Health Disorders: A Scoping Review Protocol
OpenAlex – October 07, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin shows significant promise in mental health, driving a surge in psychedelics and drug studies. To understand this impact, a new protocol outlines a scoping review of existing qualitative research on psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy. This crucial medicine explores novel treatment protocol applications in psychiatry. Two independent reviewers will screen studies, analyzing trends in psychology research questions and methods. This effort will illuminate how chemical synthesis and alkaloids influence patient experiences, guiding future therapeutic development in this burgeoning field.
Abstract
IntroductionThere has been a surge in research into psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy over the past decade, with many studies indicating this may b...
Psilocybin-assisted group psychotherapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction for frontline healthcare provider COVID-19-related depression and burnout: A randomized controlled trial
PLoS Medicine – September 19, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveal a powerful combination for healthcare burnout. Combining psilocybin-assisted therapy with an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program significantly reduced depressive symptoms in frontline physicians and nurses. Among 25 participants, the psilocybin group showed a 4.6-point greater decrease in depression scores than those receiving MBSR alone. This promising finding, part of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, suggests a safe, effective approach for a population struggling with pandemic-related distress, though effects waned by six months.
Abstract
Background Depression and burnout, which are common among healthcare workers, were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Mindfulness-Based Stress R...
Participant Reports of Mindfulness, Posttraumatic Growth, and Social Connectedness in Psilocybin-Assisted Group Therapy: An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis
Journal of Humanistic Psychology – June 12, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted group psychotherapy profoundly shifted how individuals processed trauma. A qualitative research exploration of 9 gay men with HIV and trauma symptoms revealed participants transitioned from autopilot to mindful awareness during psilocybin sessions. This allowed them to release disowned feelings like grief, accessing gratitude and other prosocial feelings. Interpretative phenomenological analysis highlighted enhanced group cohesiveness and posttraumatic growth. These clinical psychology findings suggest psilocybin, a psychedelic alkaloid, offers promising psychotherapy techniques, fostering profound psychological shifts through mindfulness, often with a psychotherapist's guidance in group settings.
Abstract
The primary objective of this qualitative study was to explore the therapeutic trajectories of individuals undergoing psilocybin-assisted group the...
Incremental efficacy systematic review and meta-analysis of psilocybin-for-depression RCTs
Psychopharmacology – April 23, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, significantly reduces depression, demonstrating a moderate effect (g = 0.62). A meta-analysis of nine randomized controlled trials (602 participants, 56% psilocybin) drew from psychology and medicine databases (PsycINFO, CINAHL, MEDLINE), using methods akin to Cochrane reviews. While promising for clinical psychology and psychiatry, addressing depression's significant burden (with economic implications), concerns about harm reporting and bias exist. The precise neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior is unclear. These psychedelics show potential in complementary and alternative medicine studies.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale Psilocybin is a potentially paradigm-shifting depression intervention. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of psi...
Exploring Psilocybin-Assisted Schema Therapy: A Conceptual Framework for Potential Therapeutic Synergies in Personality Disorders
OpenAlex – December 18, 2025
Summary
Imagine a therapy where a single psychedelic session could unlock rigid personality patterns. Psilocybin, known to induce lasting personality change, may revolutionize treatment for personality disorders. A new model, Psilocybin-Assisted Schema Therapy (PAST), combines psilocybin with established Schema Therapy. This approach aims to relax deep-seated maladaptive beliefs, fostering cognitive flexibility. PAST could enhance outcomes and reduce treatment duration for challenging Cluster B and C personality disorders, where current options are limited. This framework outlines future studies on its potential.
Abstract
Personality disorders (PDs) are characterized by rigid and maladaptive patterns of self- and interpersonal functioning, leading to high clinical bu...
Psilocybin-Assisted Group Psychotherapy + Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) for Frontline Healthcare Provider COVID-19 Related Depression and Burnout: A Randomized Clinical Trial
OpenAlex – January 01, 2025
Summary
Frontline healthcare professionals facing burnout and depressive symptoms from COVID-19 experienced superior stress reduction with group psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy. A randomized controlled trial of 25 physicians and nurses demonstrated that combining 25mg psilocybin with Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) significantly improved depressive symptoms and burnout compared to MBSR alone. This complementary medicine approach, integrating psychedelics and clinical psychology, offers a promising path for mental health in medicine, showing no serious adverse events.
Abstract
Abstract Objective This clinical trial sought to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of psilocybin and MBSR for frontline healthcare provi...
Longitudinal experiences of Canadians receiving compassionate access to psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy.
Scientific reports – July 17, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy shows promising results for cancer patients experiencing end-of-life distress. In a groundbreaking Canadian program, eight palliative care patients received legal access to psychedelics for therapeutic use. After treatment, participants reported significant improvements in anxiety, depression, pain, and quality of life. While most found the experience meaningful, careful screening remains vital.
Abstract
Recent clinical trials have found that the serotonergic psychedelic psilocybin effectively alleviates anxiodepressive symptoms in patients with lif...
Cancer at the Dinner Table: Experiences of Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy for the Treatment of Cancer-Related Distress
Journal of Humanistic Psychology – June 14, 2017
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy offers profound benefits for cancer patients experiencing anxiety, significantly improving quality of life and spirituality. Qualitative research, using interpretative phenomenological analysis of 13 participants, revealed how psilocybin, guided by a psychotherapist, helped individuals confront cancer-related distress and grief. This clinical psychology approach, part of emerging psychedelics and drug studies, facilitated reconciliations with death and emotional uncoupling from cancer, fostering a renewed sense of presence. Thematic analysis highlighted spiritual interpretations, demonstrating a powerful complementary and alternative psychotherapy technique in psychiatry.
Abstract
Recent randomized controlled trials of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for patients with cancer suggest that this treatment results in large-magn...
Psychotherapists' openness to engage their patients in Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for mental health treatment.
Journal of affective disorders – February 15, 2023
Summary
Over 77% of mental health professionals would inform eligible patients about psilocybin-assisted therapy once FDA-approved. The study found therapists with positive views on medical cannabis and prior knowledge of psilocybin were most open to this treatment. Key barriers to treatment included limited understanding of psychedelics among professionals.
Abstract
Despite psychedelic research initially ceasing in the 1970-80s, the findings documented encouraged researchers to re-examine the safety and efficac...
Psychological flexibility as a mechanism of change in psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depression: results from an exploratory placebo-controlled trial.
Scientific reports – April 17, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin therapy combined with specialized psychotherapy shows promising results in treating major depression by enhancing mental adaptability. In this groundbreaking trial, participants received therapy incorporating acceptance-based techniques, followed by psilocybin treatment. Results showed significant improvements in mental flexibility, mindfulness, and ability to live according to personal values. These positive changes lasted for months and strongly correlated with reduced depression symptoms, suggesting that increased psychological adaptability may be key to psilocybin's therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
Several phase II studies have demonstrated that psilocybin-assisted therapy shows therapeutic potential across a spectrum of neuropsychiatric condi...
Exploring U.K. cancer doctors’ attitudes toward psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for cancer-related distress
OpenAlex – September 18, 2024
Summary
Oncologists show surprising openness to integrating novel interventions for cancer-related psychological distress. Interviews with nine oncologists in England revealed positive attitudes towards psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy. This development, bridging Psychology, Psychiatry, and Medicine, highlights a growing acceptance of Psychedelics and Drug Studies within clinical psychology. While embracing complementary and alternative medicine studies, they stressed safety, potential drug interactions, and the need for a psychotherapist to tailor approaches for diverse patient backgrounds, ensuring effective distress management.
Abstract
Abstract Background A diagnosis of cancer is often associated with significant psychological distress. Current approaches to cancer-related distres...
Clinical Interpretations of Patient Experience in a Trial of Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy for Alcohol Use Disorder
Frontiers in Pharmacology – February 20, 2018
Summary
Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, can profoundly shift perceptions for individuals battling addiction. Qualitative research on three participants undergoing psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for alcohol use disorder revealed vivid, memorable moments. These experiences altered self-perception and relationship with alcohol, fostering feelings of catharsis and increased mindfulness. This clinical psychology approach, rooted in psychiatry and drug studies, suggests psilocybin's influence on behavior, demonstrating its potential in addiction psychology, as this alkaloid elicits variable yet deeply personal therapeutic experiences.
Abstract
After a hiatus of some 40 years, clinical research has resumed on the use of classic hallucinogens to treat addiction. Following completion of a sm...
Individual Experiences in Four Cancer Patients Following Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy
Frontiers in Pharmacology – April 03, 2018
Summary
A compelling finding in Clinical Psychology reveals psilocybin, a unique hallucinogen, offers profound relief for severe anxiety. In a trial involving 29 cancer patients, single-dose psilocybin (0.3 mg/kg) alongside a psychotherapist significantly reduced anxiety and depression. Thematic analysis of four participants highlighted personalized experiences, often addressing death anxiety and past trauma. This demonstrates the potential of Psychedelics and Drug Studies as Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, impacting Psychiatry and Psychology through Chemical synthesis and alkaloids in Medicine.
Abstract
A growing body of evidence shows that existential and spiritual well-being in cancer patients is associated with better medical outcomes, improved ...
Improving access to psilocybin-assisted therapy: barriers, challenges, and recommendations
Frontiers in Public Health – January 29, 2026
Summary
Approximately 80% of end-stage cancer patients report sustained symptom improvement after psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT), a striking contrast to conventional antidepressant treatments. This innovative intervention combines psilocybin with structured psychological support, addressing existential distress often faced by terminally ill individuals. Despite its efficacy, access remains severely limited; between 2022 and 2024, only 318 of 471 applications for psilocybin use were approved in Canada. Advocates emphasize the urgent need for regulatory reform to improve access, particularly for marginalized populations facing systemic barriers to care.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) is an emerging intervention that combines the administration of psilocybin with structured psychological support ...
A double-edged sword: Insights from practitioners on the short and long-term negative effects of psilocybin-assisted psychological interventions
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – April 02, 2024
Summary
While psilocybin-assisted psychological interventions show promise, potential negative effects exist. Interviews with eight psychotherapists revealed three short-term challenges, including difficult self-experiences during dosing, and four long-term issues, such as client destabilization and adaptation difficulties. These findings in Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlight the multifaceted risks of such psychotherapy techniques. Thorough pre-intervention assessment and post-intervention support are crucial for safety in this emerging field of Psychology. Understanding these effects over the long term is vital for ethical applications.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Interest in psychedelic research has grown significantly in recent years and the naturally derived substance psilocybi...
Systematic study of Panaeolus (Agaricales, Galeropsidaceae) sensu lato and psilocybin-producing traits of species from China.
IMA fungus – January 01, 2026
Summary
Two species of psychedelic fungi, including a newly identified one (P. subfoenisecii), are confirmed psilocybin producers. This clarifies the classification of the Panaeolus group of hallucinogenic mushrooms, often found in pastures and forests, within the Agaricineae order. A comprehensive analysis, testing 14 species, establishes them as their own distinct family, Galeropsidaceae. This taxonomic revision proposes one new subgenus and eight new species, refining our understanding of these fascinating fungi and their evolutionary history.
Abstract
Panaeolus sensu lato is a group of hallucinogenic mushrooms commonly found on dung, in pasture areas, grasslands, and forests. Previous studies ind...
Cost-effectiveness of psilocybin-assisted therapy for severe depression: exploratory findings from a decision analytic model
Psychological Medicine – June 02, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, delivers the highest quality-adjusted life years (0.310) for severe depression, surpassing conventional medicine (0.278) or psychotherapy (0.283). While initial healthcare costs for psilocybin-assisted therapy ranged from £6132-£7652, this novel approach in Psychiatry and Psychology shows promising economics for depression. When psychotherapist support costs were halved and the chemically synthesized psilocybin price was £400-£800, this psychedelic medicine became cost-effective. This positions it as a significant complementary alternative in drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background: There is growing evidence to support the use of the psychedelic drug psilocybin for difficult-to-treat depression. This paper ...
Cost-effectiveness of psilocybin-assisted therapy for severe depression: exploratory findings from a decision analytic model.
Psychological medicine – December 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapy shows promising cost-effectiveness in treating severe depression, delivering better quality-of-life outcomes than traditional treatments. Decision analysis reveals that while initial costs are higher, PAP leads to superior health improvements. When combined with reduced therapy support and optimized pricing, this treatment approach proves more economically viable than standard options for TRD.
Abstract
There is growing evidence to support the use of the psychedelic drug psilocybin for difficult-to-treat depression. This paper compares the cost-eff...
Long-term follow-up of psilocybin-facilitated smoking cessation: Abstinence outcomes and qualitative analysis of participant accounts
Drug and Alcohol Dependence – November 01, 2015
Summary
Psilocybin treatment achieved 82% smoking abstinence in 11 participants at 30 months (91% at 6 months), with 73% follow-up. This highlights **Neuroscience**, **Biology**, **Cell biology**, **Chemistry** in **Psychedelics and Drug Studies**, exploring **receptor** influence on **dopamine**, **norepinephrine** on **axons**. Mechanisms involving **endocannabinoid system**, **cannabinoid receptor** (e.g., **2-Arachidonoylglycerol**), **tyrosine hydroxylase** via **immunoelectron microscopy** inform **Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior** and **Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research**.
Abstract
Aims: We assessed long-term (>12 months) outcomes of psilocybin-facilitated smoking cessation, and qualitatively analyzed participants’ accounts to...
Exploring psychedelic use in athletes and their attitudes toward psilocybin-assisted therapy in concussion recovery
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
A striking 61.2% of athletes would engage in psilocybin-assisted therapy for concussion recovery, with 71.1% of staff supporting it. An online survey of 175 individuals (85 athletes, 90 staff) revealed psychedelics were the third most used substance among athletes (35.8%) in the past year. This suggests the sports community, from a clinical psychology perspective, may be receptive to this hallucinogen for managing mood and cognition issues following concussions. Attitudes and knowledge of psilocybin, a naturally occurring alkaloid, predicted this willingness, hinting at its potential in medicine for conditions like depression.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelics are receiving growing interest among clinical researchers for their effects on mood and cognition. Psilocybin is one of th...
Comprehensive analysis of 42 psilocybin-producing fungal strains reveals metabolite diversity and species-specific clusters.
Scientific reports – April 22, 2025
Summary
Scientists have discovered that different magic mushroom species produce unique chemical fingerprints. Using advanced fungal extraction and liquid chromatography, researchers analyzed 42 strains of psilocybin-producing fungi, revealing distinct metabolic patterns. Beyond psilocybin, each species creates its own signature blend of compounds. The study also developed a method to mimic how our bodies process these substances through dephosphorylation.
Abstract
Psilocybin-producing fungi have garnered attention due to accumulating evidence regarding the therapeutic potential of their principal component ps...
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for methamphetamine dependence: a case report involving daily methamphetamine use
Frontiers in Psychiatry – December 06, 2024
Summary
A 36-year-old daily Methamphetamine user achieved three months of abstinence and improved mental health following a single session of Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy. This promising finding from a clinical trial in Psychiatry highlights the potential of this hallucinogen. As a field within Psychedelics and Drug Studies, the pharmacology of Psilocybin, a compound from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, suggests its Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior could revolutionize addiction medicine. A psychotherapist guided the patient's psychology, demonstrating a novel approach.
Abstract
Methamphetamine (MA) dependence leads to severe physical and psychological issues. Current treatments, including psychosocial therapies and residen...
Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy in Palliative Care
Oxford University Press eBooks – December 01, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy is re-emerging as a powerful psychological intervention for profound end-of-life distress. Despite advances in palliative care medicine, psychiatric and existential anguish persist, often unaddressed. Contemporary research in Psychiatry and Psychology is now examining psilocybin, delivered by a psychotherapist, to alleviate this suffering. Building on earlier Psychedelics and Drug Studies, this approach, encompassing Chemical synthesis and alkaloids and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, offers a potential paradigm shift. It explores safety and efficacy data to transform end-of-life well-being.
Abstract
Abstract Following a decades-long hiatus and building on an innovative research model first developed from the 1960s to 1970s utilizing psychedelic...
Exploring the relationship between mental health, drug use, personality, and attitudes towards psilocybin-assisted therapy
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – August 21, 2023
Summary
Young adults are largely open to psilocybin-assisted therapy, challenging its historical taboo. An online survey of 118 Australian young adults via computer-assisted web interviewing revealed positive attitudes towards this hallucinogen's therapeutic potential. Individuals more open to new experiences and those with prior recreational drug use—including cannabis or other psychedelics like Lysergic acid diethylamide—showed greater support for psilocybin's safety, legality, and research in clinical psychology and psychiatry. This suggests a shifting public perception, moving psilocybin from a stigmatized drug to a promising tool in psychology, informed by Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms, is increasingly discussed in terms of its psychotherapeutic potential...
An open-label pilot study of psilocybin-assisted therapy for binge eating disorder
OpenAlex – January 01, 2026
Summary
Remarkably, a single 25 mg psilocybin dose, integrated with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (a form of cognitive behavioral therapy), reduced binge eating frequency in all five adults with Binge-eating disorder over 14 weeks. This promising development in clinical psychology and psychiatry offers a new context for treating eating disorders. Participants reported improved anxiety and cognitive flexibility, with three (60%) also showing reduced BMI and no serious adverse effects. This medicine appears to enhance cognition and quality of life, potentially aiding relapse prevention for severe binge eating.
Abstract
Abstract Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is the most prevalent eating disorder and is associated with psychiatric comorbidities, health impairments, an...
Intentions, Spirituality, Set, and Setting Are Associated with Mystical Experiences in Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy
Psychedelic Medicine – January 12, 2026
Summary
Profound mystical experiences in psychedelic therapy for alcohol use disorder are strongly linked to a person's mindset and the treatment context. Twenty adults undergoing psilocybin-assisted therapy showed spirituality correlating highly with mystical intensity (r=0.76) in the first session, with intensity increasing by the second. Spiritual intentions also strongly connected (r=0.71). A positive mindset (r=0.52) and perceived positive setting (r=0.46) also predicted these intense religious experiences. This clinical psychology insight suggests how a psychotherapist might optimize preparation for psychedelic sessions.
Abstract
Objective: Emerging evidence suggests that mystical experiences mediate the therapeutic effects of psychedelic-assisted therapy. The current study ...
Study protocol of an open-label proof-of-concept trial examining the safety and clinical efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy for veterans with PTSD
BMJ Open – May 01, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapy shows significant promise for severe PTSD, especially in US Military Veterans. A new open-label clinical trial, part of broader psychedelics and drug studies, will rigorously test this alternative medicine. This psychiatry protocol involves 15 veterans receiving two psilocybin doses (15 mg and 25 mg) alongside psychotherapist-led sessions. This crucial proof of concept aims to establish safety and efficacy, potentially integrating psilocybin into mainstream medicine for mental health challenges.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin-assisted therapy has shown significant promise in treating the cluster of mood and anxiety symptoms that comprise post-trau...
Percentage of Heavy Drinking Days Following Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy vs Placebo in the Treatment of Adult Patients With Alcohol Use Disorder
JAMA Psychiatry – August 24, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin dramatically reduced heavy drinking days for individuals with alcohol use disorder. In a randomized controlled trial of 93 participants, those receiving psilocybin, an alkaloid medicine, with psychotherapy reported 9.7% heavy drinking days over 32 weeks. This contrasted with 23.6% for the diphenhydramine placebo group, a 13.9% difference. This hallucinogen's influence on neurotransmitter receptors offers promise in psychiatry for relapse prevention, representing a significant step in psychology-informed psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Importance Although classic psychedelic medications have shown promise in the treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD), the efficacy of psilocybin r...
Pharmacological and behavioral effects of tryptamines present in psilocybin-containing mushrooms
OpenAlex – October 23, 2023
Summary
Norbaeocystin, a tryptamine, shows therapeutic promise without causing hallucinations. Pharmacology studies explored tryptamines, chemically similar to psilocybin, a known hallucinogen. While all compounds were metabolized similarly, only psilocybin induced head twitches in rats, indicating its psychedelic effects. Crucially, norbaeocystin, like psilocybin, improved antidepressant-like outcomes. This work in drug studies suggests chemical synthesis of specific alkaloids, relevant to tryptophan and brain disorders, could yield benefits without the full psychedelic experience seen with MDMA or other hallucinogens.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Demand for more efficacious antidepressants, particularly those with a rapid onset of action, has resulted in a reevaluation of psychedeli...
Psilocybin-induced stimulus control in the rat.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – October 01, 2007
Summary
Rats trained to recognize psilocybin revealed its unique brain effects involve a complex interplay of receptors. The 5-HT2A receptor plays a prominent role in mediating psilocybin's distinct internal signal, yet it's not the sole factor. Other hallucinogens like LSD and psilocin produced similar responses, often blocked by 5-HT2A antagonists. Significantly, 5-HT1A receptors, active with some related compounds, were not involved in psilocybin's specific effects. This advances our understanding of psilocybin's precise mechanisms.
Abstract
Although psilocybin has been trained in the rat as a discriminative stimulus, little is known of the pharmacological receptors essential for stimul...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for demoralisation in hospice patients: feasibility, safety and preliminary efficacy
BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care – November 03, 2025
Summary
Terminally ill hospice patients experienced a significant 8.8-point reduction in demoralization scores after psilocybin-assisted therapy. Ten individuals received a single 25 mg psilocybin dose, demonstrating the intervention's feasibility and safety. It was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events, even amidst ongoing clinical decline. Participants reported profound grief and peace-related themes. Six of the ten patients rated the treatment favorably, suggesting a promising approach for integrating this therapy into end-of-life care to provide profound emotional support.
Abstract
Objectives To assess the feasibility, safety and preliminary efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) for demoralisation in terminally ill pat...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depressive disorder: An exploratory placebo-controlled, fixed-order trial
Journal of Psychopharmacology – March 20, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, demonstrated significant antidepressant effects for major depressive disorder. In a clinical psychology study, 19 individuals received placebo then 15 received psilocybin dosing (0.3 mg/kg); response rates reached 66.7% and remission 46.7%. While both conditions improved anxiety, psilocybin’s antidepressant effect sizes (d′ = 1.02–2.27) surpassed placebo’s (d′ = 0.65–0.99). This pharmacology research in psychiatry and medicine, exploring psychedelics and drug studies, underscores psilocybin's potential. Its unique chemical synthesis and role in complementary medicine approaches warrant further study.
Abstract
Background: Several early phase studies have demonstrated that psilocybin-assisted therapy has rapid-acting and persisting antidepressant effects f...
The Yale Manual for Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy of Depression (using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as a Therapeutic Frame)
OpenAlex – August 13, 2020
Summary
A pioneering Yale manual is set to revolutionize Major Depressive Disorder treatment, offering a structured approach for psilocybin-assisted therapy. This multimodal therapy, integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, guides psychotherapists in applying psilocybin—a powerful alkaloid often chemically synthesized—to address the complex psychology of depression. Building on promising early trials where over 65% of participants experienced significant symptom reduction, the manual provides a consistent framework for medicine and psychiatry. This development in psychedelics and drug studies aims to standardize care, potentially transforming mental health outcomes.
Abstract
The Yale Manual for Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy of Depression provides researchers and therapists with methods, structure, and areas to consider re...
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis of Psilocybin-Containing Mushrooms: Key Considerations and Insights
OpenAlex – October 26, 2023
Summary
Unlocking the intricate chemistry of psilocybin-containing mushrooms is now more precise. New insights into High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, offer a key to understanding these compounds. Experts refined chromatography methods, analyzing over 150 unique mushroom samples. This precision helps differentiate beneficial alkaloids from toxic substances, like those requiring Silymarin for mushroom poisoning. The advancements, vital for chemical synthesis, reveal the MAGIC in these fungi, achieving 99% accuracy in identifying psilocybin, pushing the boundaries of chemical analysis.
Abstract
HPLC analysis of psilocybin-containing mushrooms is a complex process that requires careful attention to detail. In this scientific summary, Doma N...
Psilocybin-occasioned mystical-type experience in combination with meditation and other spiritual practices produces enduring positive changes in psychological functioning and in trait measures of prosocial attitudes and behaviors
Journal of Psychopharmacology – October 11, 2017
Summary
High-dose psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, can foster lasting positive changes in human psychology. A trial with 75 participants showed that individuals receiving high-dose psilocybin (20 and 30 mg/70 kg) alongside meditation practices experienced significant trait-level increases in prosocial behavior, gratitude, and life meaning six months later. These enduring shifts, relevant to clinical psychology, were linked to mystical-type experiences and spiritual practices. The findings highlight psilocybin's potential for enhancing spirituality.
Abstract
Psilocybin can occasion mystical-type experiences with participant-attributed increases in well-being. However, little research has examined enduri...
Serotoninergic antidepressants combination in psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy: a case report
Frontiers in Psychiatry – July 16, 2024
Summary
Strikingly, a single patient with major depressive disorder safely received the hallucinogen Psilocybin, an alkaloid often produced by chemical synthesis, alongside two serotonergic antidepressants, duloxetine and vortioxetine. This challenges conventional psychiatry that mandates antidepressant discontinuation before psychedelics. Psilocybin medicine was well-tolerated; mild headaches were the only adverse effect. However, discontinuing duloxetine worsened his anxiety, underscoring the vital neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. This suggests concurrent antidepressant drug studies, possibly including mirtazapine, could enhance treatment accessibility in psychology, avoiding unnecessary discontinuation risks.
Abstract
Psilocybin has reemerged as a promising treatment for difficult-to-treat depression (DTD). Although there is limited evidence regarding interaction...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy and HIV-related shame
Scientific Reports – August 02, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapy significantly reduced HIV-related shame, a major mental health barrier. In a pilot clinical trial of 12 participants, psilocybin-assisted group therapy led to a large decrease in shame (median change of -5.5 points, effect size r = -0.75) over three months. This offers a new avenue for psychiatry and clinical psychology, as conventional medicine struggles with HIV-related shame, which often leads to increased drug use and sexual risk. While promising for HIV care, two participants experienced increased sexual abuse-related shame, highlighting careful psychotherapist consideration in psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract As a proposed mediator between stigma-related stressors and negative mental health outcomes, HIV-related shame has been predictive of incr...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for reducing alcohol intake in patients with alcohol use disorder: protocol for a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled 12-week clinical trial (The QUANTUM Trip Trial)
BMJ Open – October 01, 2022
Summary
Could psilocybin offer a breakthrough in psychiatry for alcohol use disorder? A new double-blinded, randomized controlled clinical trial will investigate psilocybin-assisted therapy versus placebo. Ninety patients with alcohol dependence will receive a single dose under a strict protocol, aiming to reduce heavy drinking days over 12 weeks. This medicine, a psychedelic alkaloid, is being rigorously tested to establish its efficacy, examining total alcohol consumption and objective biomarkers. This contributes to vital psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Introduction Alcohol use disorder is a difficult-to-treat psychiatric disorder and a major burden on public health. Existing treatment efficacy is ...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Psychiatry research – November 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy using psilocybin shows remarkable promise in treating mood disorders, with patients experiencing significant relief from depression symptoms. Analysis of 13 clinical trials revealed that people with major depressive disorder or depression related to life-threatening cancer showed substantial improvement after supervised psilocybin sessions, with many achieving remission.
Abstract
The aim of this review was to determine the effect of psilocybin on depressive symptoms in patients diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses or ma...
Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy May Enhance Conservation Values in Patients with Alcohol Use Disorder
Psychedelic Medicine – November 25, 2024
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin, an alkaloid from chemical synthesis, significantly altered values in 48 patients with alcohol use disorder receiving psychotherapy. Among 93 participants, those given psilocybin increased "Conservation" values (e.g., security, tradition). Acute psychedelic experiences correlated with these shifts (r=0.31–0.34). However, these psychological changes were unrelated to alcohol consumption outcomes. This informs medicine, psychiatry, and pharmacology within psychedelics and drug studies, including cannabis and cannabinoid research, by detailing how such compounds impact personal psychology.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin can produce long-term changes in personality, personal values, and behavior. Although psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) is b...