Psilocybin for anorexia nervosa: If it helps, let's learn how.
Evelyn Attia, Joanna E Steinglass
Med (New York, N.Y.) September 8, 2023 DOI: 10.1016/j.medj.2023.08.003 via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractCurrent treatments for adults with anorexia nervosa have limited effectiveness. A small open trial by Peck and colleagues indicated that psilocybin is safe and tolerable for people with anorexia nervosa, suggesting a new direction for research into the brain mechanisms underlying the disorder.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Open trial Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Adults with anorexia nervosa |
| Intervention | Psilocybin |
| Topics | Psychedelic-assisted therapy |
| Keywords | Eating disorders Mental health treatment Psilocybin research Clinical trials |
| Citations | 7 |
| Key finding | Psilocybin was safe and tolerable for adults with anorexia nervosa in a small open trial. |
Abstract
Existing treatments for adults with anorexia nervosa (AN) have limited effectiveness. AN is a brain-based disorder with behavioral and cognitive features leading to severe undernourishment. Peck et al. conducted a small open trial suggesting safety and tolerability of psilocybin for AN,1 opening an avenue for further investigation into the neural mechanisms involved.