B - 61 Psilocybin as a First-Line Treatment of ADHD in Adult Populations

Microdosing psilocybin may offer an alternative treatment for adult ADHD with fewer side effects than standard stimulant medications, which act on dopamine and noradrenaline receptors and often cause significant adverse effects. This literature review examined research from several journals and found that psilocybin, acting primarily on serotonin receptors, not only produces fewer adverse effects but also provides a different therapeutic pathway when stimulants fail. The review highlights the neurological underpinnings—including 5-HT receptor involvement and neural plasticity—that may explain its potential success. Limitations of stimulant medications are also discussed. The findings suggest psilocybin microdosing could benefit adults seeking symptom management with reduced side effects.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Objectives The first line for symptom management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a class of medications that act on dopamine and noradrenaline receptors, which leads to symptom reduction at the cost of significant side effects. These side effects have led to community searching for alternative methods that manage ADHD symptoms in adults that lead to less side effects. Microdosing Psilocybin has emerged as a course of treatment that could provide benefits for those who may experience serious side effects to stimulant medication. Method This literature review was conducted using search terms such as, ADHD attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, psychedelic treatment, stimulant treatment of ADHD, naturalistic treatment of ADHD, 5-HT, neural plasticity. Journals that reported about the benefits and concerns of Psilocybin use for ADHD are Neurochemistry International, American College of Neuropharmacology, European Psychology, Movement and Nutrition in Health and Disease, Journal of Psychopharmacology, and Psychiatry Research. Results Research shows that not only does microdosing Psilocybin have less adverse effects than stimulant medications when being used to treat ADHD, but it also leads to an alternative method that focuses on serotonin receptors when other avenues are unsuccessful. Conclusions This poster illustrates the alternative use of Psilocybin for treatment in ADHD and highlights neurological underpinnings that may lead to explaining success. Limitations of stimulant medications are also reviewed.