Age and cannabis co-use moderate experience and perceived benefits of psilocybin

Age and cannabis co-use influence the acute effects and therapeutic outcomes of psilocybin. In a cross-sectional study of 365 current psilocybin users aged 18–77, younger participants reported more adverse experiences, while older adults had milder subjective effects. However, age did not significantly affect mystical experiences, psychological insight, or psychological outcomes. Polysubstance use patterns varied by age, with younger adults more likely to co-use nicotine. Cannabis co-use was associated with greater improvements in quality of life, anxiety, depression, and alcohol abuse, suggesting potential synergies between psilocybin and THC.

Study at a glance

Abstract

As psychedelic use increases, understanding how demographic and behavioral factors influence the effects of psychedelics is essential for both research and public health. This cross-sectional study examined 365 current psilocybin users, analyzing differences in acute experiences, psychological outcomes, and substance co-use patterns. Participants were categorized into young (18-25), middle-aged (26–54), and older (55-77) adults. Results showed that younger participants reported significantly more adverse experiences while older adults had milder subjective effects. Despite differences in adverse experiences, age did not significantly impact mystical experiences, psychological insight, or psychological outcomes. Polysubstance use patterns also varied by age, as younger adults were more likely to co-use nicotine with psilocybin. Cannabis co-use specifically was associated with greater improvements in quality of life, anxiety, depression, and alcohol abuse, suggesting potential synergies between psilocybin and THC. These findings emphasize that age and cannabis co-use may modulate aspects of psilocybin’s acute effects and therapeutic outcomes. Given the increasing legalization and accessibility of psychedelics, future research should further investigate mechanisms underlying individual differences and assess the impact of polysubstance use with psychedelics.