A recent scientific review has examined the potential of psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAP) as a treatment for substance use disorders (SUDs), focusing on its impact on alcohol, tobacco, and opioid dependence. The review, published in the journal Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, looked at 16 studies, primarily observational or open-label trials, and found promising early results, though more rigorous clinical trials are needed.
Promising Results for Alcohol and Tobacco Dependence
Research into psilocybin’s impact on alcohol use disorder (AUD) found that participants in several studies reported fewer heavy drinking days and higher abstinence rates after undergoing PAP. In some cases, neuroimaging indicated that the therapy helped normalize brain activity, potentially reversing some of the neurological effects associated with chronic alcohol consumption.
Similarly, studies on tobacco use disorder showed that psilocybin-assisted therapy was linked to high smoking cessation rates. Some research suggests that the intensity of the psychedelic experience, often described as a “mystical” or deeply meaningful event, may play a key role in long-term success.
Mixed Outcomes for Other Substance Use Disorders
While the evidence is more limited, some studies have also explored the potential of psilocybin to reduce opioid dependence. However, findings in this area have been less consistent, highlighting the need for more targeted research.
Expanding Research into Methamphetamine Use
The review also noted a recent preprint study published by The Lancet in early 2023, which looked at the use of psilocybin for treating methamphetamine use disorder. This small-scale study suggested that PAP could be implemented in outpatient settings without significant safety concerns, showing early signs of effectiveness that warrant further investigation.
Increasing Support for Psychedelic Research
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has also increased funding for studies into psychedelics and addiction. In 2023, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) announced a $1.5 million funding round for research into the potential therapeutic effects of substances like psilocybin, reflecting growing interest in this area.
Additionally, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) has identified alcohol use disorder as a promising target for psilocybin research, despite the substance’s current status as a Schedule I drug under U.S. law.
Looking Ahead
While psilocybin-assisted therapy shows promise, much of the current evidence is based on small, preliminary studies. Larger, controlled trials will be needed to fully understand its effectiveness and long-term impact on various types of substance use disorders.
