A Modern Overview of the Potential Therapeutic Effects of Psilocybin in the Treatment of Depressive Disorders, Treatment-Resistant Depression, and End-of-Life Distress

Psilocybin, a psychedelic alkaloid from Psilocybe mushrooms, shows therapeutic potential for conditions including treatment-resistant depression and end-of-life distress. This review consolidates current data on its efficacy, safety, therapeutic effects, indications, contraindications, drug interactions, adverse reactions, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and dosing regimens. The evidence suggests psilocybin can produce rapid and sustained antidepressant effects, though its use requires careful screening and professional supervision due to risks such as anxiety, transient hypertension, and potential for adverse psychological reactions. The review provides a comprehensive pharmaceutical reference for clinicians and researchers.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current findings and data on the therapeutic effects of psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic alkaloid primarily found in Psilocybe mushrooms. This review covers psilocybin's efficacy and safety profile, therapeutic effects, proposed indications and contraindications, drug-drug interactions, adverse reactions, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and dosing regimens as treatment guidelines. The goal is to offer a consolidated resource containing the essential pharmaceutical information on psilocybin currently available.