psilocybin

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum:

psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushroom species often referred to as “magic mushrooms,” undergoes a transformation within the body when ingested, converting into psilocin. Psilocin is the active compound responsible for the profound psychoactive effects associated with psilocybin use.

psilocybin and its metabolite, psilocin, exert their primary influence on serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor. This interaction leads to noticeable shifts in perception, mood alterations, and changes in thought patterns. Users frequently encounter vivid hallucinations, intense emotional states, and a distorted sense of time and space. Psilocybin is known to induce a diverse array of mental effects, including a heightened sense of interconnectedness, increased creativity, introspection, and a feeling of unity with the natural world or the cosmos.

During a psilocybin experience, individuals often report visual hallucinations and alterations in the perception of colors and shapes. Some describe seeing intricate geometric patterns or experiencing synesthesia, where their senses merge, such as seeing sounds or hearing colors. Psilocybin can intensify emotions, leading to both positive and negative experiences. Users may encounter euphoria, profound bliss, or deep emotional insights. Conversely, unresolved issues may surface, and some individuals may grapple with anxiety or paranoia.

Some users describe experiencing profound spiritual or mystical moments while under the influence of psilocybin. These experiences often involve a profound sense of unity with the universe, encounters with divine entities, or a feeling of transcendence beyond ordinary reality.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined

Paranoia
Fear
Confusion
Hallucination
High blood pressure
Headache
Nausea

Black Box Warning

None

Contraindication / Caution

Caution/Contraindications of psilocybin:

Psychiatric Disorders: Individuals with a history of psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, should avoid psilocybin, as it can exacerbate their condition.

Heart Conditions: Psilocybin can increase heart rate and blood pressure. People with heart issues should be cautious.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There’s limited research on the effects of psilocybin during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it’s best to avoid it.

Medication Interactions: Psilocybin can interact with certain medications, particularly MAOIs (Monoamine oxidase inhibitors) and SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors). Combining them can be dangerous.

Mental State: Individuals in an unstable or anxious mental state should avoid psilocybin, as it can intensify emotions and thoughts.

Age: Psilocybin should be used with caution by minors, as their brains are still developing.

Substance Abuse History: People with a history of substance abuse may be at a higher risk of problematic psilocybin use.

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:   

Pregnancy category: N/A

Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown

Pregnancy Categories:       

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester.

Category B: There were lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the foetus in animal experiments.

Category C: There was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.

Category D: Adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:

psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, such as Psilocybe cubensis. When ingested, it is converted into psilocin, which primarily affects the brain’s serotonin receptors.

The pharmacological effects of psilocybin include altered perception, mood changes, and hallucinations. It mainly interacts with the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor, leading to increased serotonin activity.

This altered serotonin transmission is believed to underlie the hallucinogenic and psychological effects of psilocybin.

The duration and intensity of these effects can vary depending on factors like dosage, individual sensitivity, and environmental factors.

There is only limited information available.

Adminstartion

Administration:

Administration of psilocybin is typically done in a medically supervised, drug-assisted psychotherapy program.

The usual dose for adults is in the range of 0.2-0.42 mg/kg when taken orally.

It’s important to note that psilocybin is illegal under federal law in the US and is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance.

The use of psilocybin should only be considered in strict compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals in a therapeutic setting.

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: psilocybin

Why do we use psilocybin?

psilocybin, a psychedelic substance found in “magic mushrooms,” shows potential in treating depression. This approach combines psilocybin with supportive counseling, allowing individuals to explore their subconscious and address the underlying factors contributing to their mental health issues.

Additionally, psilocybin has the capacity to promote greater connectivity in the brain and disrupt the rigid thought patterns often linked to depression. Studies have proven that psilocybin therapy can deliver rapid, significant, and long-lasting antidepressant effects, including for individuals dealing with Major Depressive Disorder, treatment-resistant cases, or Anxiety associated with life-threatening illnesses.