Esketamine and Psilocybin—The Comparison of Two Mind-Altering Agents in Depression Treatment: Systematic Review
International Journal of Molecular Sciences September 28, 2022 Dominika Psiuk, Emilia Magdalena Nowak, Natalia Dycha et al. 36 citations
A systematic review of 12 studies examined two psychoactive compounds, psilocybin and esketamine, for treating depression. Esketamine, a laboratory-made substance, showed significant reduction in depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation shortly after intake and after one month, compared to baseline and standard antidepressants. Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic, produced antidepressant effects one day after intake and after 6–7 weeks, with benefits lasting up to 6 or 8 months. One study suggested psilocybin's effects are comparable to and may be superior to escitalopram. Both compounds demonstrated rapid and sustained effects, indicating potential as novel antidepressant agents after addressing limitations.