Psilocybin Rapidly Eases Depression Symptoms

A new study conducted by researchers at Karolinska Institute in Sweden, published in JAMA Network Open and JAMA Psychiatry, found that a single dose of psilocybin, combined with psychotherapy, significantly eased symptoms of moderate-to-severe recurrent depression within days, with benefits lasting over three months. The trial involved 35 participants who received either 25 mg of psilocybin or an active placebo (niacin). Results showed a noticeable improvement in mood for the psilocybin group by day eight, with 53% achieving remission at six weeks compared to 6% in the placebo group. While the long-term effects beyond three months became less distinct as the placebo group also improved, the study highlights psilocybin's potential as a rapid and relatively long-lasting treatment for a broader range of depression patients, not just those with treatment-resistant forms. Lead author Hampus Yngwe and senior author Johan Lundberg emphasized the promising results but also cautioned about potential side effects, such as severe anxiety experienced by two participants, underscoring the need for controlled clinical settings and careful patient selection. The study was funded by the Sweden — Swedish Research Council and Norrsken Foundation.