Psilocybin during the postpartum period induces long-lasting adverse effects in both mothers and offspring
Nature Communications September 30, 2025 Cassandra J. Hatzipantelis, Min Liu, A. H. G. Love et al. 2 citations
Psilocybin, which increases social connectedness and shows promise for treating mental illness, was tested in a mouse model of peripartum mood disorders. Social stress caused maternal withdrawal and increased stress-related behaviors, and psilocybin did not alleviate these effects. Weeks later, psilocybin-treated mothers were more anxious, regardless of prior stress exposure, while virgin females were unaffected. Reproductive status did not alter psilocybin metabolism, but serotonin receptor transcription and 5-HT2A receptor-dependent responses were reduced in mothers. Offspring exposed to psilocybin through breastfeeding showed anhedonia in adulthood. The findings indicate that both parous parents and their children may be uniquely vulnerable to psychedelic treatment during the postpartum period.