Thursday, 15 April 2021

Putting Fungi Back After Depression?

A combination of Psilocybin and Psychological therapy may be as effective as treatment with antidepressants (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/apr/14/magic-mushroom-psilocybin-show-promise-treatment-depression-clinical-trial-finds). A study (Imperial College London) compared giving a combination of the active factor in 'magic mushrooms' and 'talking therapy' with a more 'traditional' Escitalopram treatment. The combination seemed as effective, in treating depression, as application of the antidepressant. The hallucinogen did not, however, appear to act on brain chemistry in the same way as Escitalopram. The study was, however, relatively small and the patients were rather self-selecting, in terms of treatments received. The study could be expanded and made 'double blind', to establish if Psilocybin could replace antidepressants in some patients. This might, of course, be resisted, as 'magic mushrooms' are class A drugs, under UK law. Drug companies are also likely to be unenthusiastic (antidepressants make good profits). It's all a bit too counter-culture for the funding agencies?

2 comments:

Unknown said...

I've read and heard a lot of reports (directly and indirectly) from people who 'microdose' very small amounts of psilocybin as part of their morning routine. The general consensus I've gathered is that it has helped to make them happier, more creative and more productive in their daily life.

Sadly the war on drugs has definitely had a huge negative impact on the research into these substances that are considered illegal, when there is massive potential for medical benefit. More obviously would be Cannabis, which is now widely accepted to have many therapeutic benefits. Interestingly it is very difficult and expensive to obtain a prescription for it in the UK, yet we are the world's largest exporter of medicinal cannabis...

Paul Brain said...

The designation of psychoactive compounds as 'legal' or 'illegal' drugs, has always seemed somewhat arbitrary! Perhaps, the media have too great a role?

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