3085 results for "Psilocybin"
Intravenous psilocybin induces dose-dependent changes in functional network organization in rat cortex
Translational Psychiatry – March 25, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin creates a unique brain signature for non-ordinary states of consciousness. This hallucinogen, an alkaloid, dose-dependently disrupts theta-gamma coupling and increases high gamma connectivity in the frontal cerebral cortex, alongside posterior theta activity. Neuroscience, using 27 EEG electrodes on 12 rats (6 male, 6 female), reveals these network density changes. Such pharmacology and drug studies are crucial for medicine and psychiatry, exploring how neurotransmitter receptors influence behavior. Understanding these effects, beyond chemical synthesis, offers deep insights into psychology.
Abstract
Psilocybin produces an altered state of consciousness in humans and is associated with complex spatiotemporal changes in cortical networks. Given t...
An Integrative Review of Measures of Spirituality in Experimental Studies of Psilocybin in Serious Illness Populations
American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine® – January 05, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapies for emotional distress frequently prompt mystical experiences and enhanced meaning. Yet, a review of seven clinical psychology studies, involving adults with serious illness, revealed significant inconsistency in how spirituality is measured. Across these studies, 12 different instruments were used, with the Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ30) and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Spirituality (FACIT-Sp-12) each appearing in four. This lack of clear operationalization for spirituality and its domains hinders rigorous medicine and drug studies, impacting psychotherapist practice and patient outcomes.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin-assisted therapies (PAT) are reemerging as a treatment for complex distress often prompting mystical experiences, enhanced m...
Psilocybin Exposures Reported to U.S. Poison Centers: National Trends Over a Decade.
The Journal of adolescent health : official publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine – May 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin exposures among young Americans have risen dramatically, with cases more than tripling in adolescents by 2022. Analysis of National Poison Data System (NPDS) surveillance reveals over 4,000 cases from 2013-2022, with most patients requiring medical care. While exposure rates remained stable until 2018, they surged significantly afterward, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Two-thirds of cases involved psilocybin alone, suggesting targeted rather than poly-substance use patterns.
Abstract
We describe trends in psilocybin exposures among adolescents and young adults as reported to US poison centers over the past decade. We queried the...
Effect of chemically synthesized psilocybin and psychedelic mushroom extract on molecular and metabolic profiles in mouse brain.
Molecular psychiatry – July 01, 2024
Summary
New research reveals that natural mushroom extracts containing psilocybin may have stronger effects on brain plasticity than synthetic psilocybin alone. Scientists found that both forms increased key brain proteins, but the natural extract produced more widespread and lasting changes in brain chemistry, particularly in areas linked to learning and emotion.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring, tryptamine alkaloid prodrug, is currently being investigated for the treatment of a range of psychiatric disorde...
Attenuation of psilocybin mushroom effects during and after SSRI/SNRI antidepressant use
Journal of Psychopharmacology – June 08, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin's effects are significantly diminished by certain antidepressants, a critical finding for psychiatry, psychology, and internal medicine. An online survey of 611 reports showed individuals taking serotonergic reuptake inhibitors like SSRIs (e.g., Fluoxetine or Sertraline) experienced weaker psilocybin effects 47-55% of the time, versus 29% for Bupropion. Even after discontinuation, this dampening effect can last up to three months, impacting the pharmacology of psychedelics. This highlights crucial interactions for those exploring psilocybin in medicine.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin is being studied for depression, but little is known about how it interacts with common antidepressants. Limited data sugges...
Psilocybin—Mediated Attenuation of Gamma Band Auditory Steady-State Responses (ASSR) Is Driven by the Intensity of Cognitive and Emotional Domains of Psychedelic Experience
Journal of Personalized Medicine – June 19, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, significantly alters brain activity linked to cognitive processing. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, 20 healthy volunteers (10M/10F) received an oral ingestion of psilocybin (0.26 mg/kg) or placebo. Electroencephalography, a tool in Audiology, revealed psilocybin decreased 40 Hz auditory steady-state responses, crucial for Cognition, compared to placebo. This effect, relevant to Psychology and Neuroscience, mirrored psychosis-like disruptions. This Medicine and Drug Studies finding highlights how psychedelics impact brain synchronization, offering insights into neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a classical serotoninergic psychedelic that induces cognitive disruptions similar to psychosis. Gamma activity is affected in psychos...
Mystical-type experiences occasioned by psilocybin mediate the attribution of personal meaning and spiritual significance 14 months later
Journal of Psychopharmacology – May 30, 2008
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, can occasion profound spiritual experiences with lasting impact. A follow-up of 36 adults, who received psilocybin under supportive conditions, revealed that 14 months later, 58% considered the experience among their five most personally meaningful, and 67% among their most spiritually significant. Furthermore, 64% reported increased well-being. These outcomes, relevant to Clinical Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, were strongly linked to the depth of mystical experience during the session, suggesting psilocybin's potential in fostering religious experience and spirituality, a key area for Psychology and Psychiatry.
Abstract
Psilocybin has been used for centuries for religious purposes; however, little is known scientifically about its long-term effects. We previously r...
Structure–Activity Relationships for Psilocybin, Baeocystin, Aeruginascin, and Related Analogues to Produce Pharmacological Effects in Mice
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science – November 02, 2022
Summary
Only specific tryptamines, like the tertiary amine psilocybin, act as potent psychedelics. In drug studies, psilocybin and its active form psilocin, an agonist at the 5-HT receptor, induced psychedelic-like head twitches in mice (ED50 0.11-0.29 mg/kg). Other related tryptamines, despite their chemistry showing nanomolar affinity for serotonin receptors, lacked this hallucinogen effect. This pharmacology highlights how subtle chemical differences in these compounds dictate their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, revealing critical insights for future psychedelic research.
Abstract
4-Phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (psilocybin) is a naturally occurring tertiary amine found in many mushroom species. Psilocybin is a prodrug...
Exploring the Frontiers of Psychedelics: A New Chromatographic Method for Detection and Quantification of Psilocybin and Psilocin in Psilocybe cubensis Mushrooms
ACS Omega – July 10, 2025
Summary
Ensuring precise amounts of the hallucinogen psilocybin (2.57%) and psilocin (0.16%) in medicinal extracts is vital for safe therapies. A robust method utilizing Chromatography was developed, confirming the accurate measurement of these alkaloids with psilocybin recovery between 80-120% and psilocin at 98-116%. This advance in Chemistry and Chemical synthesis is crucial for drug studies involving Psychedelics, allowing for reliable application of these compounds in therapeutic contexts, highlighting progress in Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology.
Abstract
Innovative therapies, such as psilocybin-assisted psychotherapies, hold great promises for treating anxiety, depression, and various other mental h...
Evolution of the Toxins Muscarine and Psilocybin in a Family of Mushroom-Forming Fungi
PLoS ONE – May 23, 2013
Summary
Muscarine, a toxic alkaloid, evolved independently multiple times within *Inocybaceae* fungi, a key insight for evolutionary biology. Analysis of 30 new samples revealed its complex biology. Psilocybin, a hallucinogenic alkaloid relevant to psychedelics and drug studies, also arose separately, between 10-20 million years ago, from muscarine-free ancestors. Muscarine's chemical synthesis and pharmacology show it was ancestral for three of seven major lineages, around 60 million years ago, with its loss often preceding psilocybin's appearance.
Abstract
Mushroom-forming fungi produce a wide array of toxic alkaloids. However, evolutionary analyses aimed at exploring the evolution of muscarine, a tox...
Spatiotemporal Brain Dynamics of Emotional Face Processing Modulations Induced by the Serotonin 1A/2A Receptor Agonist Psilocybin
Cerebral Cortex – July 16, 2013
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin profoundly alters how the brain processes emotions. Neuroscience reveals this serotonergic psychedelic significantly reduces activity in key limbic areas like the amygdala and parahippocampal gyrus, and the temporal lobe. For instance, between 168-189 ms post-stimulus, neutral and fearful face processing is impacted. A later effect (211-242 ms) reduces activity for happy faces. This highlights psilocybin's selective influence on emotional processing, a key area of Psychology, demonstrating how serotonin receptor modulation impacts behavior.
Abstract
Emotional face processing is critically modulated by the serotonergic system. For instance, emotional face processing is impaired by acute psilocyb...
Distinctive Molecular and Metabolic Profiles of Chemically Synthesized Psilocybin and Psychedelic Mushroom Extract
OpenAlex – July 20, 2023
Summary
Natural psilocybin mushroom extracts demonstrate superior brain benefits compared to synthetic versions. In male mice, a hallucinogen-rich mushroom extract significantly boosted four key synaptic proteins across four brain regions, indicating enhanced neuroplasticity, lasting 11 days. In contrast, chemically synthesized psilocybin showed more limited effects, impacting only two proteins in two areas. This suggests the full mushroom's complex chemistry, relevant to drug studies and chemical synthesis of alkaloids, offers a distinct neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. This difference is vital for understanding psychedelics.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin, a naturally occurring, tryptamine alkaloid prodrug, is currently being investigated for the treatment of a range of psychiatri...
Brain-MGF: Multimodal Graph Fusion Network for EEG-fMRI Brain Connectivity Analysis Under Psilocybin
arXiv (Cornell University) – November 23, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin profoundly reorganizes brain connectivity, a compelling finding in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. An Artificial intelligence framework, rooted in Computer science, employs an artificial neural network for graph fusion of functional magnetic resonance imaging data. This machine learning model, constructed to recognize patterns, achieved 74.0% accuracy distinguishing psilocybin's effects during meditation and 76.0% during rest. By adaptively encoding complex brain patterns at each brain node using a softmax mechanism, it offers interpretability into neural changes. Such insights could aid Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, even illuminating profound subjective states.
Abstract
Psychedelics, such as psilocybin, reorganise large-scale brain connectivity, yet how these changes are reflected across electrophysiological (elect...
Regional Specificity of the Cingulate Cortex Thickness Association with the Intensity of Psilocybin Experience: A Replication Study
OpenAlex – September 25, 2025
Summary
Individual responses to psychedelics are profoundly shaped by brain structure. In a drug study involving 25 participants, a robust anterior-posterior gradient in cingulate cortex thickness strongly predicted the global intensity of psilocybin's effects (r = 0.549). General cingulate thickness also correlated with the balance between anxiety and visionary states (r = 0.495). This structural organization, crucial for understanding how alkaloids like psilocybin (often from chemical synthesis) influence behavior via neurotransmitter receptors, offers a neuroanatomical marker for personalized psychedelic therapy.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale: Individual variability in psilocybin response is a major challenge for psychedelic-assisted therapy, with structural brain feat...
Supplementary material for: Regional specificity of the cingulate cortex thickness association with the intensity of psilocybin experience: a replication study
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – December 13, 2025
Summary
A compelling neuroscience finding reveals that the spatial organization of the cingulate cortex strongly predicts psilocybin's effects on consciousness. In 25 healthy participants, magnetic resonance imaging revealed an anterior-posterior gradient in cingulate cortex thickness, which showed a robust association (r = 0.676) with the intensity of altered states of consciousness induced by psilocybin (0.26 mg/kg). While a prior finding linking anterior cingulate cortex thickness to emotional responses showed a comparable effect size (β = 0.523) in this replication, it lacked statistical significance. This psychology research highlights brain mapping of the cortex.
Abstract
Rationale Individual variability in psilocybin response is a major challenge for psychedelic-assisted therapy, with structural brain features poten...
Die subakuten Effekte des Psilocybin auf Persönlichkeit, Achtsamkeit und die Auflösung des Selbst
OpenAlex – January 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin significantly reduces neuroticism and anxiety, improving life satisfaction. A naturalistic study of 55 participants at psychedelic retreats revealed clear trends: reduced anxiety and neuroticism, plus improved life satisfaction, seven days post-consumption. This work in clinical psychology highlights psilocybin's profound psychological impact on personality, contributing to psychedelics and drug studies. Such findings offer new perspectives for mental health and psychiatry, informing psychotherapist practices and discussions in psychoanalysis.
Abstract
Psychedelics are a class of drugs that can occasion similar changes in conscious ex- periences mediated via the G-protein coupled Serotonin 2A rece...
Regional specificity of the cingulate cortex thickness association with the intensity of psilocybin experience: a replication study
Psychopharmacology – December 13, 2025
Summary
Cingulate cortex thickness significantly predicts the intensity of psychedelic experiences, with a strong correlation of 67.6% identified in a study involving 25 healthy participants. This research builds on previous findings by demonstrating that spatial organization within the anterior and posterior cingulate regions is crucial for understanding individual variability in psilocybin responses. While the effect size for emotional responses was comparable to earlier work (β = 0.523), it underscores the need to consider broader cortical patterns over isolated measurements for predicting outcomes in psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Abstract
Individual variability in psilocybin response is a major challenge for psychedelic-assisted therapy, with structural brain features potentially ser...
Psilocybin increases emotional empathy in patients with major depression.
Molecular psychiatry – June 01, 2025
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin significantly boosted emotional empathy in people with depression, particularly their ability to connect with positive emotions in others. When combined with psychological support, the treatment helped participants better understand and share others' feelings for at least two weeks, compared to those who received a placebo. This improvement in social connection may help explain why psilocybin shows promise as a depression treatment.
Abstract
Empathy plays a crucial role in interpersonal relationships and mental health. It is decreased in a variety of psychiatric disorders including majo...
Less is more? A review of psilocybin microdosing
Journal of Psychopharmacology – September 16, 2024
Summary
Definitive conclusions on psilocybin microdosing, a hallucinogen derived from alkaloids, remain elusive despite its potential in Medicine. A review of 40 studies and 8 grey literature websites, found via databases like MEDLINE, reveals a critical lack of robust evidence in Clinical psychology. Most findings stem from observational studies, with sparse clinical trials. Future Psychedelics and Drug Studies must address these gaps, including dose-response and psychological testing, to validate psilocybin's use as a Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Abstract
Background: The applications of psilocybin, derived from ‘magic mushrooms,’ are vast, including a burgeoning practice known as microdosing, which r...
Validation of the revised Mystical Experience Questionnaire in experimental sessions with psilocybin
Journal of Psychopharmacology – October 06, 2015
Summary
Psilocybin, a synthesized alkaloid and potent hallucinogen, induces mystical experiences predicting enduring positive changes. Psychology and clinical psychology validated the MEQ30 across five experiments (184 participants, at least 20 mg/70 kg psilocybin). Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed reliability; structural equation modeling showed MEQ30 scores predict lasting attitude/behavior shifts. This advances Psychedelics and Drug Studies, informing broader drug research, including Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research.
Abstract
The 30-item revised Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ30) was previously developed within an online survey of mystical-type experiences occasio...
Psilocybin induces rapid and persistent growth of dendritic spines in frontal cortex in vivo
OpenAlex – February 17, 2021
Summary
A single dose of the serotonergic hallucinogen Psilocybin rapidly rewires the brain, offering new insights for Neuroscience. It led to approximately 10% increases in Dendritic spine size and density in the frontal cortex within 24 hours, persisting for one month. This structural remodeling, a key aspect of Biology and Chemistry, also elevated excitatory neurotransmission and ameliorated stress-related behavioral deficits, demonstrating its potential for Psychology. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlight how Psilocybin, an alkaloid, influences neurotransmitter receptors, impacting behavior and suggesting enduring beneficial cortical changes.
Abstract
Summary Psilocybin is a serotonergic psychedelic with untapped therapeutic potential. There are hints that the use of psychedelics can produce neur...
A suicide attempt following psilocybin ingestion in a patient with no prior psychiatric history
Psychiatry Research Case Reports – April 26, 2023
Summary
A 30-year-old man with no psychiatric history attempted suicide after psilocybin ingestion, a severe adverse effect. While this hallucinogen is explored as medicine for anxiety and depressive disorders in Psychiatry, most Psychedelics and Drug Studies indicate reduced suicidality. This single case highlights the need for robust Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis to understand such adverse effects. Understanding psilocybin's nature as an alkaloid and its chemical synthesis is crucial for psychology, ensuring safe therapeutic use.
Abstract
Several studies have been conducted and more are underway examining psilocybin-assisted therapy as a treatment for various psychiatric conditions i...
Cell-type specific transcriptional modulation by psilocybin induces sustained plasticity in mouse medial prefrontal cortex
OpenAlex – January 08, 2025
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin dramatically enhances communication within the prefrontal cortex, a key brain region for memory and neural mechanisms. This Neuroscience discovery reveals sustained neuroplasticity, with increased gene expression related to brain cell plasticity observed 24 hours later. Specifically, a deep layer neuron cell type, L5/6 NP, drives this biology. Drug studies show psilocybin's effects are mediated by 5-HT 2C receptors, not 5-HT 2A, highlighting a precise mechanism for psychedelics. This cell-type specific action offers new insights into neuroendocrine regulation and behavior.
Abstract
Abstract Despite enormous interest in psychedelics for psychiatric interventions, potential underlying biological mechanisms remain unclear. Here, ...
Development of a PBPK model of psilocybin/psilocin from Psilocybe cubensis (magic mushroom) in mice, rats, and humans.
Scientific reports – April 21, 2025
Summary
Scientists have mapped how magic mushrooms' active compounds move through the body, revealing that psilocybin rapidly converts to psilocin - the substance responsible for psychedelic effects. This mathematical model tracks how Psilocybe cubensis compounds are processed across species, from mice to humans, showing precise distribution patterns in the brain and other organs. The findings help optimize therapeutic dosing strategies.
Abstract
Psilocybin is an active alkaloid found in magic mushrooms (Psilocybe cubensis). It is classified as a Class I Psychoactive Substance due to its psy...
Psilocybin decreases neural responsiveness and increases functional connectivity while preserving pure-tone frequency selectivity in mouse auditory cortex
Journal of Neurophysiology – May 29, 2024
Summary
Remarkably, psilocybin profoundly alters how the brain processes sound. A recent neuroscience investigation, conducted in awake mice, reveals this hallucinogen modulates the auditory cortex's response to external stimuli versus internal neural activity. This serotonergic psychedelic reshapes perception, offering insights into its therapeutic potential. While much psychology research on psychedelics focuses on the visual cortex, these drug studies highlight broader neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. For instance, other research explores nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, demonstrating diverse mechanisms in drug studies.
Abstract
Recent studies have shown promising therapeutic potential for psychedelics in treating neuropsychiatric conditions. Musical experience during psilo...
Investigation of the Structure–Activity Relationships of Psilocybin Analogues
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science – December 14, 2020
Summary
Psychedelic drug studies reveal that 4-acetoxy tryptamines, often from chemical synthesis, likely function as prodrugs *in vivo*. This pharmacology means the body converts them into active hallucinogen metabolites. Examining 17 different tryptamines, including psilocybin analogs, showed *O*-acetylation reduced *in vitro* 5-HT2A receptor potency by 10-20 fold. Yet, *in vivo* effects were similar. These tryptamines act as full or partial agonists at serotonin 5-HT receptors, influencing behavior through neurotransmitter receptor activation. Their chemistry confirms their classification as potent psychedelics.
Abstract
The 5-HT2A receptor is thought to be the primary target for psilocybin (4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine) and other serotonergic hallucinogen...
Exposure‐Response Analysis to Assess the Concentration‐QTc Relationship of Psilocybin/Psilocin
Clinical Pharmacology in Drug Development – April 06, 2020
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows promise as a medicine for major depressive disorder, with heart safety being a key focus in its pharmacology. Analysis revealed that even at a clinical dose of 25 mg, the mean QT interval change was only 2.1 milliseconds. Even at a supraclinical concentration of 60 ng/mL, the mean change remained low at 9.1 milliseconds. This low proarrhythmic risk is crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, building on insights from traditional medicine and the chemical synthesis of such alkaloids. The short four-hour half-life prevents drug accumulation, supporting its therapeutic application.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin is being developed for treating major depressive disorder. Psilocybin is readily dephosphorylated to psilocin upon absorption. ...
Psilocybin’s effect on human brain synaptic plasticity
OpenAlex – October 10, 2025
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, a potent psychedelic compound, significantly boosts brain connectivity when administered in a therapeutic-like environment. Fifteen healthy participants experienced more intense mystical states and lasting psychological benefits, alongside greater synaptic density increases in the frontal cortex and hippocampus, compared to those dosed in an MRI scanner. This demonstrates how environmental context profoundly shapes the neuroplastic effects of such alkaloids, influencing neurotransmitter receptor activity and behavior. These findings have crucial implications for future drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelics such as psilocybin have been linked to enhanced neuroplasticity and symptom relief in affective disorders, but the neurobiolo...
Psilocybin occasioned mystical‐type experiences
Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental – June 23, 2020
Summary
Psilocybin-occasioned mystical experiences profoundly correlate with therapeutic benefits for psychiatric conditions. This narrative review in clinical psychology emphasizes the hallucinogen psilocybin's potential as a psychological intervention. Since 2006, medicine and psychiatry have seen significant advancements in psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy. While pharmacological actions, informed by chemical synthesis and alkaloids, are discussed, understanding neuromechanistic processes requires further biochemical analysis and sensing techniques. Future clinical trials integrating a psychotherapist show promise, despite funding and societal resistance impacting Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Abstract Objective Research into psychedelic therapy models has shown promise for the treatment of specific psychiatric conditions. Mystical‐type e...
Wherefore the magic? The evolutionary role of psilocybin in nature
OpenAlex – December 19, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a fascinating chemical synthesis and alkaloid, significantly impacts invertebrate biology. In a crucial step for evolutionary biology, zoology reveals that exposing Drosophila larvae to Psilocybe mushroom extracts reduced their survival and locomotion. Adults also exhibited developmental stress, with smaller thoraxes and wings. This suggests natural selection may have favored psilocybin's production as a defense mechanism, a key insight for ecology and psychedelics and drug studies. Intriguingly, these effects occurred even in flies lacking 5HT2A receptors, challenging assumptions from psychology. This work grounds our understanding of psilocybin's ancient role.
Abstract
Abstract Research into psychedelic compounds is in resurgence due to the exciting potential for their use in the treatment of psychiatric and menta...
Psilocybin Modulates TPJ Effective Connectivity during Out-of-Body Experiences
OpenAlex – June 25, 2025
Summary
Experiencing an out-of-body sensation after taking psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, correlates with specific brain changes. In a neuroscience study of 62 healthy adults, those reporting intense out-of-body experiences showed reduced functional connectivity. Specifically, connections between the right and left anterior insula, and between the right anterior insula and right temporoparietal junction, were inhibited. This psychology finding, relevant to cognitive psychology and drug studies, suggests psilocybin influences neurotransmitter receptors, altering bodily self-consciousness and offering insight into paranormal experiences.
Abstract
Abstract Serotonergic psychedelics alter self-boundaries and can induce out-of-body experiences (OBEs)—the sense of being located outside one’s phy...
Psilocybin as Transformative Fast‐Acting Antidepressant: Pharmacological Properties and Molecular Mechanisms
Fundamental and Clinical Pharmacology – July 16, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, is re-emerging as a promising antidepressant medicine for severe depression, echoing its initial study in the 1950s-60s before being halted in the 1970s. Modern pharmacology and psychology are exploring how this psychedelic alkaloid influences neurotransmitter receptors, particularly serotonin 5-HT2A, to potentially facilitate transformative learning and alleviate mood disorders. Through neuroscience and drug studies, psilocybin's antidepressant potential is significant, especially given depression's projected impact by 2030.
Abstract
ABSTRACT In the 1950s–60s, serotonergic psychedelic drugs were studied as potential adjuvants to psychotherapy to treat addiction and alcoholism. H...
The occurrence of the psychotomimetic agent psilocybin in an Australian agaric, Psilocybe subaeruginosa
Australian Journal of Chemistry – April 01, 1970
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent psychotomimetic hallucinogen, was first isolated from the Mexican mushroom *Psilocybe mexicanu*. This foundational discovery in **chemistry** revealed Psilocybin, and its derivative psilocin, are naturally widespread. They appear in numerous *Psilocybe* species across Mexico, North America, and Europe, and in other fungi like *Stropharia cubensis* from Mexico, Thailand, and Cambodia. This natural prevalence is key for **Psychedelics and Drug Studies**, informing our understanding of these compounds. However, some *Psilocybe* species notably lack these unique chemicals.
Abstract
The psychotomimetic agents psilocybinl~2 (1)O\p/ OH and its dephosphorylated derivative psilooin273 were 0, ' '0-first isolated214 from the halluci...
Hypnotic Induction of the Interference of Psilocybin with Optically Induced Spatial Distortion
Pharmacopsychiatry – November 01, 1969
Summary
A compelling finding in Psychology and Neuroscience indicates that an individual's perceptual stability is a personality invariant, persisting even under the hallucinogen Psilocybin and hypnotic induction. This small study, involving four individuals given 160–200 µg/kg psilocybin (a chemical synthesis and alkaloid), explored its effect on spatial distortion thresholds. It suggests personality structure dictates perceptual reproducibility, showing minimal Interference from drug-induced changes. This work contributes to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, demonstrating how neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior doesn't alter this core stability, offering insights for Medicine beyond simple music distortion.
Abstract
The influence of personality structure on the stability of perceptual performance, specifically the degree of reproducibility under hypnotic induct...
Novel qNMR Methodto Quantify Psilocybin and Psilocinin Psychedelic Mushrooms
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – November 10, 2025
Summary
Significant variability exists in the psychoactive tryptamines, psilocybin and psilocin, found in psychedelic mushrooms. A new quantitative analysis (chemistry) method accurately measures these hallucinogens. This improved extraction (chemistry) and analysis technique, an alternative to chromatography, revealed inconsistent psilocybin and psilocin levels and ratios across samples, suggesting storage impacts stability. This robust approach aids quality control in emerging Psychedelics and Drug Studies, and Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, ensuring precise dosing for clinical investigations into depression treatments.
Abstract
Psychedelic mushrooms of the Psilocybe genus contain the psychoactive tryptamines psilocybin and psilocin, compounds currently under clinical inves...
Novel qNMR Method to Quantify Psilocybin and Psilocin in Psychedelic Mushrooms
ACS Omega – November 10, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic mushrooms exhibit significant variability in their active compounds, psilocybin and psilocin. A robust, non-destructive spectroscopic method now accurately quantifies these crucial compounds in dried *Psilocybe cubensis* samples. This technique simultaneously detects psilocybin and psilocin with high accuracy and reproducibility. Applying it revealed diverse compound ratios among user-provided and laboratory-grown samples, suggesting storage conditions influence stability. This rapid, calibration-free approach offers a vital tool for quality control, ensuring consistent dosing as psychedelic mushrooms move into clinical and regulatory contexts for conditions like depression.
Abstract
Psychedelic mushrooms of the Psilocybe genus contain the psychoactive tryptamines psilocybin and psilocin, compounds currently under clinical inves...
Psilocybin Experiential Therapist Training: Insights from a World-First Study
OpenAlex – November 17, 2025
Summary
Experiencing psilocybin personally can significantly enhance a therapist's skills for psychedelic-assisted therapy. In a world-first investigation, 14 mental healthcare professionals received a 25 mg psilocybin dose, reporting deeper, embodied understanding of therapeutic principles. They also noted increased empathy and attunement. While no harms occurred, participants identified potential risks: temporary destabilization from challenging material, or projecting their own experience onto clients. Findings suggest an optional experiential component is valuable for trained clinicians with strong reflective capacity, though it's not a complete training solution.
Abstract
Abstract First-hand experience with psychedelics may help clinicians develop skills and knowledge needed to work with the profound changes to consc...
Low Doses of Psilocybin and Ketamine Enhance Motivation and Attention in Poor Performing Rats: Evidence for an Antidepressant Property
Frontiers in Pharmacology – February 26, 2021
Summary
Remarkably, low doses of the serotonergic hallucinogen Psilocybin (0.05-0.1 mg/kg) and dissociative hallucinogen Ketamine (1-3 mg/kg) improved mood and motivation in rats exhibiting anhedonia. Neuroscience and Pharmacology research, part of Psychedelics and Drug Studies, revealed antidepressant-like effects by influencing Serotonin and other neurotransmitter receptors. Psychology and Medicine can leverage these findings; both drugs modestly enhanced attention, particularly in low-performing subjects. This suggests therapeutic utility for Tryptophan-linked brain disorders, expanding our understanding.
Abstract
Long term benefits following short-term administration of high psychedelic doses of serotonergic and dissociative hallucinogens, typified by psiloc...
Occurrence of Psilocybin in Various Higher Fungi from Several European Countries
Planta Medica – October 01, 1985
Summary
Out of over 100 European fungal species, a compelling finding reveals only 10 contained the hallucinogen psilocybin or related tryptamine derivatives. Using thin layer chemistry, this biological investigation for psychedelics and drug studies identified *Psilocybe semilanceata* and *Panaeolus subbalteatus* as the key sources. These alkaloid-rich species are the sole ones available in significant quantities in Middle and Northern Europe. Understanding their stereochemistry and potential for chemical synthesis is vital for fungal biology and applications, guiding future studies on these potent compounds.
Abstract
Using high performance liquid and thin-layer chromatographic methods more than 100 species of fungi from Europe belonging to 18 genera were analyse...
Bridging the reporting gap: Application of the ReSPCT guidelines in psilocybin clinical trial protocols.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – January 16, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin trials for Major Depressive Disorder and Treatment-Resistant Depression often overlook critical contextual details. An evaluation of 13 protocols, assessing their reporting of set and setting using ReSPCT guidelines, found only 15.6% of 390 items fully compliant. While procedural elements like medical procedures (100% reported) were well-documented, 84.6% of protocols lacked cultural competence information, and 92.3% omitted details on the therapeutic environment. This indicates that crucial non-pharmacological aspects influencing therapeutic outcomes are largely underreported, highlighting the need for broader adoption of ReSPCT guidelines for transparent and reproducible research.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted therapies are increasingly studied for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), and methodolog...
Psilocybin and MDMA in Couples Therapy: Investigating Treatment for Substance Use Disorders and Codependency
Contemporary Family Therapy – December 11, 2025
Summary
Addressing the complex interplay of addiction and relationship dynamics, a review explores how psychedelic-assisted therapy could transform couples facing substance use disorders (SUDs). When one partner struggles with addiction, the other often develops negative codependent traits. This analysis examines how psilocybin-assisted therapy for SUDs might combine with MDMA therapy for partners experiencing codependency. Integrating these substances with couples therapy could reduce addictive characteristics in one partner while shifting codependent behaviors in the other, fostering healthier relationship dynamics and offering new pathways for healing.
Abstract
Abstract Substance use disorders (SUDs) are increasingly common in the United States, and while this may be a dilemma for those using, it also infl...
Facing Mortality Together: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Analysis of Group Psilocybin Therapy Among Older Long-Term AIDS Survivor Gay Men
Palliative Medicine Reports – January 01, 2026
Summary
Group psilocybin therapy appears to foster death acceptance in individuals facing serious illness. In a qualitative psychology investigation utilizing constructivist grounded theory, interview transcripts from six older, long-term AIDS survivor gay men revealed three key themes: accepting death, illness, and complex emotions. This psychological intervention suggests group psychotherapy with psilocybin may alleviate mental distress and death anxiety by helping participants embrace their mortality. Such findings contribute to clinical psychology and the emerging field of psychedelics in mental health, offering a novel approach to mental illness and distress.
Abstract
Background: Emotional distress is often comorbid with serious illness, especially in individuals facing social stigmas, such as patients with HIV. ...
Homebrewed psilocybin: can new routes for pharmaceutical psilocybin production enable recreational use?
Bioengineered – January 01, 2021
Summary
A significant advancement in pharmacology reveals that the psychedelic psilocybin, a promising hallucinogen for treating neurological conditions, can be easily synthesized. Using a recombinant *E. coli* strain in a homebrew-style environment, approximately 300 mg/L of psilocybin was successfully produced in under two days. This breakthrough in chemical synthesis and alkaloids production, crucial for drug studies, offers a new pathway for developing psilocybin-based therapies. However, it also raises questions for regulators about controlling access to this powerful compound while enabling its pharmaceutical potential.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a drug most commonly recognized as a recreational psychedelic, is quickly gaining attention as a promising therapy for an expanding ran...
Cardiac Arrest Associated With Psilocybin Use and Hereditary Hemochromatosis
Cureus – May 07, 2023
Summary
A 48-year-old man on ADHD medication suffered a life-threatening arrhythmia, possibly due to *polypharmacy*. This case in *medicine* highlights challenges in *psychiatry* as *psychedelics and drug studies* explore *psilocybin* and other *hallucinogens* like *ecstasy* and *phencyclidine*. Understanding *recreational drug* interactions is vital, especially for conditions like *bipolar disorder* or *hypomania* where *Quetiapine* is used. Comprehensive *forensic toxicology and drug analysis*, including *cannabis* research, is crucial to prevent such adverse events.
Abstract
Recreational drug use is a significant public health concern in various countries. It is well understood that usage of psychedelics/hallucinogens, ...
Neurobiological and Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin in Psychiatric Disorders
Journal of Pharma Insights and Research. – October 05, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin offers rapid, sustained antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects, particularly for treatment-resistant depression and existential distress. Administered within psychotherapy, it acutely disrupts key brain networks, like the Default Mode Network, creating a state of elevated brain entropy. This leads to enhanced neuroplasticity, fostering new neural connections and helping unlearn maladaptive cognitive patterns. Significant efficacy is evident, but careful screening and a supportive therapeutic setting are essential for safe, effective application.
Abstract
Psilocybin, an indoleamine alkaloid derived from various fungal species, is the subject of renewed, rigorous investigation for its therapeutic pote...
Protocols and practices in psilocybin assisted psychotherapy for depression: A systematic review.
Journal of psychiatric research – August 01, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin combined with psychotherapy shows remarkable promise in treating severe depression. Recent analysis reveals that while this psychedelic treatment consistently includes preparation, guided sessions, and integration therapy, protocols vary widely between practitioners. Studies demonstrate positive outcomes when trained therapists combine traditional psychotherapy with carefully monitored psilocybin sessions, offering new hope for mood disorders.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) is a promising treatment option for depression, with randomized controlled trials (RCTs) providing prelimin...
Study Protocol for ‘PsilOCD: A Pharmacological Challenge Study Evaluating the Effects of the 5-HT2A Agonist Psilocybin on the Neurocognitive and Clinical Correlates of Compulsivity’
Cureus – January 29, 2025
Summary
Unlocking the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, new research targets Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. This clinical psychology protocol aims to reveal the neurocognitive and neural mechanisms by which this medicine influences cognition, offering crucial neuroscience insights. Focusing on psilocybin's pharmacology as a neurotransmitter receptor agonist, the study will determine the feasibility and efficacy of a low-dose treatment. This work, part of broader psychedelics and drug studies, seeks to establish specific response percentages and tolerability rates, informing psychiatry and potentially related fields like body image and dysmorphia studies.
Abstract
This study's results are expected to offer critical insights into the neural mechanisms underlying the effects of psilocybin-assisted therapy in tr...
Clinical Pharmacokinetics of Psilocin After Psilocybin Administration: A Systematic Review and Post-Hoc Analysis
Clinical Pharmacokinetics – January 01, 2025
Summary
The predictable way psilocybin is processed by the body, known as its pharmacokinetics, shows remarkable consistency across various drug studies. This stable pharmacology, crucial for understanding neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, establishes a solid foundation for its use in medicine. Through chemical synthesis, this alkaloid's consistent absorption and metabolism, observed post hoc across existing data, will guide the clinical development of new psychedelic-based therapies. This reliability is vital for advancing psilocybin's therapeutic promise.
Abstract
Overall, we found the pharmacokinetic parameters of psilocin to be consistent between studies. This review may guide the further clinical developme...
Induction and Extinction of Psilocybin Induced Transformations of Visual Space
Pharmacopsychiatry – January 01, 1973
Summary
Our inherent ability to judge verticality is easily warped. A single dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin (160 µg/kg) profoundly amplified this spatial misjudgment in 16 college-age volunteers, a key finding for cognitive psychology and neuroscience. This effect was further intensified when participants experienced strong body distortion, relevant to body image studies. Psilocybin, a powerful psychedelic, causes a near extinction of optical clarity, highlighting how physics governs our perception of space.
Abstract
There is a “natural” tendency to misjudge the position of the visual as compared to the gravitational vertical. A 160 µg/kg psilocybin-induced acce...
Novel psilocin prodrugs with altered pharmacological properties as candidate therapies for treatment-resistant anxiety disorders
OpenAlex – May 18, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a natural hallucinogen, offers significant promise as medicine for severe depression and anxiety. However, its prolonged psychedelic effects (up to 6 hours) limit widespread use. Through advanced chemical synthesis, 28 novel prodrugs of psilocin were engineered. Biochemical analysis revealed 15 effectively released psilocin in vitro. Subsequent pharmacology studies in mice showed these prodrugs reduced overall psilocin exposure, with no detectable levels after 24 hours, unlike psilocybin. Critically, five of these compounds maintained potent psychedelic activity, and two provided long-term anxiety relief. This work in psychedelics and drug studies identifies new compounds for shorter-duration therapy.
Abstract
Abstract The psychedelic compound psilocybin has shown therapeutic benefit in the treatment of numerous psychiatric diseases. A recent randomized c...