Summarised by Centrist
Psilocybin, the active ingredient in “magic mushrooms,” is showing promise as an alternative to standard antidepressants.
A recent study comparing psilocybin to the SSRI escitalopram (a drug similar to Prozac) found that both treatments improved depression symptoms over six months, but psilocybin offered better social functioning and a stronger sense of meaning in life.
The study, conducted by researchers at Imperial College London, involved 59 patients with moderate to severe depression.
Thirty patients received a single dose of psilocybin, while 29 were treated with escitalopram for six weeks. Both groups received around 20 hours of psychological support.
At the six-month mark, patients who took psilocybin reported better psychosocial outcomes, while SSRIs are known for causing side effects like reduced libido, which psilocybin appeared to improve.
Although psilocybin is still experimental and not yet approved for general use, the researchers suggest that it could offer a more holistic approach to treating depression.
Co-author Dr David Erritzoe noted that psilocybin’s ability to enhance connectedness and meaning in life could significantly improve long-term mental health and well-being. However, while psilocybin has potential, it is not without risks. It has unpredictable effects sometimes seen in recreational use.
Whether psilocybin will be widely approved remains to be seen.
