What are the effects of psilocybin?

Psilocybin, the active compound found in psychedelic mushrooms, has various effects on the brain and body, both during and after its consumption. Below are some key points about its effects and how they are studied and understood:

1. Brain Network Activation

• Psilocybin strongly affects several brain networks, notably the Default Mode Network, which is associated with daydreaming and self-referential thoughts. During a psilocybin experience, this network gets altered, which may lead to decreased ego sense and increased connectivity between brain regions that do not normally communicate as actively. These changes can have lingering effects even after the drug's influence has worn off, promoting a state of increased network communication 1.

2. Antidepressant Properties

• Research shows significant antidepressant effects of psilocybin, particularly in treating major depressive disorder. The substance enhances serotonin transmission in the brain, which plays a pivotal role in mood regulation. Clinical studies have reported that 50-70% of participants showed a significant improvement in their depressive symptoms after psilocybin therapy, suggesting its potential as a powerful treatment for depression 2.

3. Sensory and Cognitive Effects

• Psilocybin impacts sensory perception and cognitive processes. It can lead to enhanced sensory experiences and emotional responsiveness to stimuli like music. Users report changed perceptions, including increased appreciation of music and altered visual perceptions—these are linked to psilocybin's action on serotonin receptors, mainly in the visual cortex, which are abundant in the brain 3 4.
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    Psychedelics and Brain Connectivity

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    Psilocybin and Depression

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    Music and Psilocybin

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    Psilocybin Experience Insights

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    Psilocybin and Depression

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    Psychedelics and Mental Health

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4. Therapeutic Use and Brain Plasticity

• The therapeutic sessions involving psilocybin usually incorporate preparatory psychotherapy. The combined use of psilocybin and psychotherapy has been found notably more effective than traditional treatments alone. Psilocybin may promote neuroplastic changes that enhance brain connectivity, potentially alleviating symptoms of disorders like depression for extended periods post-treatment 5.

5. Risks and Side Effects

• While psilocybin has promising therapeutic potentials, it has risks, especially for individuals with predispositions to psychotic disorders. The experience can be destabilizing for some, leading to prolonged psychiatric issues in rare cases. It is crucial to screen participants carefully in clinical settings to mitigate such risks 6.

These insights highlight the profound impact psilocybin can have on the brain and its potential both for scientific study and therapeutic application, along with the critical importance of carefully controlled use in clinical environments.