Magic mushrooms are one of the oldest forms of hallucinogenic consumables in history. And as such, they are treated with caution due to the risks of addiction and abuse. However, recent research has found that their key compound may yet have potential as an alternative to antidepressants currently on the market.
The compound in question is called psilocybin and has already been subject to a number of small trial studies in recent years.
For instance, a Phase II clinical trial by the Imperial College London tested 59 volunteers over a span of six weeks. The results showed that both the common antidepressants and psilocybin had roughly equal degrees of effectiveness.
Another notable aspect of the study was that the use of either substance was combined with psychological therapy, and could possibly open new doors for researching better forms of intervention.
Still, other researchers advise that many of these studies are still in their trial phase, and that it might still be too early to tell just how far the magic mushroom ingredient can go.
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Research is young, but hopeful
One such researcher is Dr. Mark Bolstridge, an honorary research associate at UCL, who also initiated a psilocybin trial with the approval of the U.K. Medical Research Council. In an interview with Vice, he states that there are still many more factors to be considered (such as the specific amount of each dose, as well as administration).
On the other hand, many of these trial studies are conducted because of the limited effectiveness of mainstream antidepressants and the lack of answers as to why. A great number of participants are people who have had very little success with common prescriptions (as well as difficult responses to psychotherapy).
The side effects of mainstream antidepressants are also a concern, with patients grappling with insomnia, sexual dysfunction, weight gain and even bone loss.
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More research about side effects needed
Those conducting research on psilocybin argue that the compound will serve as an alternative while also carrying none of these risks. However, the taboo surrounding the use of magic mushrooms creates plenty of obstacles (both legal and scientific).
Psilocybin may not result in the same negative side effects, but it is still prone to combined substance abuse alongside alcohol and other drugs.
And in any case, all studies conclude there is still much research to be done overall regarding the impact of substances on the brain's physiology. A few other studies on psilocybin even suggest that the hallucinogenic experiences are not even linked to its capacity as a possible antidepressant.
The so-called 'mystical experiences' created by the drug's effects are likely unnecessary (and even prove counterintuitive to the goal of making it as another compound for medication).
For real progress to be made, researchers continue to advocate for strong psychotherapy measures to go along with drug administration. It provides the necessary monitoring and careful dosage, regardless of the specific medication being prescribed.
Furthermore, the presence of a licensed professional is an effective deterrent against harmful self-medication and provides resources for intervention.
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