A potential role for psilocybin in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder
This review summarises limited but suggestive evidence that psilocybin may have therapeutic potential for obsessive–compulsive disorder, outlines plausible neurobiological and psychological mechanisms, and notes an acceptable clinical safety profile. The authors recommend expanded preclinical studies and randomised controlled trials to properly investigate this potential.
Authors
- Edward Jacobs
Published
Abstract
The recent revivification of interest in the therapeutic use of psychedelics has had a particular focus on mood disorders and addiction, although there is reason to think these drugs may be effective more widely. After outlining pertinent aspects of psilocybin and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the current review summarizes the evidence indicating that there may be a role for psilocybin in the treatment of OCD, as well as highlighting a range of potential therapeutic mechanisms that reflect the action of psilocybin on brain function. Although the current evidence is limited, that multiple signals point in directions consistent with treatment potential, alongside the psychological and physiological safety of clinically administered psilocybin, support the expansion of research, both in animal models and in further randomized controlled trials, to properly investigate this potential.
Research Summary of 'A potential role for psilocybin in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder'
Introduction
Interest in serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocybin has resurged over the past decade, with most clinical research to date focused on mood disorders and addiction. Jacobs frames this review around a narrower question: whether psilocybin has potential as a treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The introduction summarises why OCD is a clinically important target—high prevalence, substantial functional impairment, and frequent non-response to existing pharmacological and behavioural treatments—and notes that early signals from multiple types of evidence warrant closer scrutiny. Jacobs sets out to summarise pertinent aspects of psilocybin pharmacology and psychology, to review existing preclinical and clinical evidence relevant to OCD, and to outline plausible neurobiological and psychological mechanisms that could mediate an anti-obsessional effect. The review culminates in recommendations for further preclinical and clinical research and a discussion of regulatory and practical barriers to progress.
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Jacobs, E. (2020). A potential role for psilocybin in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Journal of Psychedelic Studies, 4(2), 77-87. https://doi.org/10.1556/2054.2020.00128
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