Psilocybin – mechanism of action and clinical evidence – systematic review

Abstract

Background. Research into the potential therapeutic applications of psilocybin has been ongoing for decades, with recent studies showing promising results in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and addiction. Methods. The clinical trials that have been conducted so far regarding the therapeutic effects of psilocybin on psychiatric disorders were systematically reviewed in this article. PubMed, MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases were searched from January 1980 to March 2023. 17 articles met the eligibility criteria after identification and screening for title and abstract. Results. Articles were divided into groups according to the psychiatric disorder addressed. 13 articles studied the efficiency of psilocybin in the treatment of depressive symptoms. 10 articles were randomized or open-label trials with a range of 12 to 59 patients and 3 were follow-ups. 5 out of the 13 articles explored psilocybin efficiency in patients with anxiety and depression disorders in correlation to life-threatening diseases (different stages of cancer or HIV). Only one open-label trial addressed psilocybin effect in patients with obsessive compulsive disorder. 3 studies assessed psilocybin efficiency regarding addictions treatment: alcohol addiction (one open-label trial) and tobacco addiction (one open-label trial and one follow-up). Conclusions. Psilocybin shows promise as a potential therapeutic agent for various mental health conditions. Further research on larger groups of patients is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of psilocybin and to optimize dosing protocols and minimize potential adverse effects.