Potential Therapeutic Effects of Psilocybin: A Systematic Review.
Cureus October 1, 2022 Dev B Goel, Sarju Zilate 24 citations
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, has been used ceremonially by indigenous peoples for centuries and was studied in mid-20th-century psychiatry before falling out of favor due to non-medical use. Renewed 21st-century interest, driven by encouraging studies, has focused on its therapeutic potential. Three controlled trials found that a single dose of psilocybin may reduce depression and anxiety symptoms in cancer patients for at least six months. A small open-label study reported fewer depressive and anxiety symptoms three months after two doses in treatment-resistant depression. Small pilot studies on addiction showed promising results for alcohol and cigarette dependence.