THE Obsessive compulsive disorder (TOC) is a disabling disease affecting 2% of the population. Although treatments exist, they remain ineffective for certain patients 🤕. Today, the research is interested in the psilocybin-a psychedelic substance of the hallucinogenic mushrooms like the psilocybe cubensis 🍄-inasmuch as innovative treatment For TOCs. Studies show promising effects, but medical follow -up is essential to guarantee the security and theefficiency of this therapeutic approach 💡.
What is psilocybin?
Origin and chemical composition
Psilocybin is the main active compound of "Magic mushrooms" Or psilocybes, especially the Psilocybe Semilanceata. This is a neurotropic substance natural belonging to the Tryptamines family. Once ingested, psilocybin is quickly converted into psilocin in the body, responsible for psychedelic effects.
Psychoactive effects
Psilocybin causes alterations of perception, thought and mood. The effects may include visual and auditory hallucinations, a Modification of the perception of time, and often a feeling of unity with the environment. These experiences are generally described as intense but rewarding by users of "Magic Mushrooms"Containing psilocybin.
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
Definition and symptoms
The OCD is characterized by recurrent intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that the patient feels obliged to execute to relieve his anxiety. These symptoms can be extremely disabling and significantly affect the quality of life.
Current treatments and their limits
Current TOC treatments are mainly based on the Cognitivo-behavioral therapy (TCC) and antidepressant drugs. However, around 30% of patients do not meet these treatments satisfactorily, hence the need to develop new therapeutic approaches such as psilocybin.
Psilocybin as potential treatment of OCD
Brain action mechanism
There Psilocybine acts mainly on serotonin receptors in the brain, especially the 5-HT2A receiver. This action could explain its therapeutic potential in OCD, as the most effective drugs for this condition are also serotonergic agents
Promising clinical studies
The study of the University of Yale
A study by Yale University has shown encouraging results with psilocybin as TOC treatment. Nine patients with severe OCD resistant and conventional treatments received different doses of psilocybin. All participants experienced a spectacular improvement in their symptoms, with a reduction of at least 25% of the symptomatic score in 8 out of 9 participants.
Other research in progress
Other studies are underway, notably at Sorbonne University, Brain Institute in Paris, where researchers explore the potential of LSD and psilocybin to permanently relieve the symptoms of patients with OCD.
Potential advantages of psilocybin
Quick and sustainable efficiency
One of the most promising aspects of the psilocybin is the speed and sustainability of its effects. In Yale's study, the relief Symptoms is on average four hours after absorption of the substance. Some patients have even experienced prolonged improvement, up to six months after treatment.
Few side effects
Compared to other psychiatric treatments, psilocybin seems to present relatively few side effects. The most commonly reported side effects are headache and dizziness, which are generally transient.
Ethical challenges and considerations
Legal status and accessibility
Psilocybin is currently classified as illegal substance in many countries, which complicates research and potential access to treatment. However, some jurisdictions, such as Oregon in the United States, are beginning to legalize its therapeutic use.
Need for medical supervision
The use of psilocybin requires strict medical supervision. Psychedelic experiences can be intense and potentially destabilizing, hence the importance of professional supervision and adequate therapeutic monitoring.
Future prospects
Towards therapeutic legalization?
In view of the promising results, we can expect an evolution of the legal status of psilocybin in the coming years, at least in a controlled therapeutic framework.
Need additional research
Despite the encouraging results, more -scale studies are necessary to confirm the efficiency and safety of psilocybin in the treatment of OCDs. Research is also necessary to determine the optimal dosage and the frequency of administration.
Conclusion
Psilocybin represents promising hope for people with OCD, in particular for those who do not respond to conventional treatments. Although challenges remain, in particular in terms of regulations and processing protocols, preliminary results are sufficiently encouraging to justify the continuation of research in this area. The future will tell us if this psychedelic substance will one day become a recognized and accessible treatment for patients with OCD.
Faq
Is psilocybine legal in France?
No, psilocybin is currently classified as a narcotic in France and its use is illegal.
How long does the effects of psilocybine last?
The acute effects generally last 4 to 6 hours, but the therapeutic benefits can persist for several weeks, even several months.
Is psilocybin addictive?
Current research suggests that psilocybin has a low addiction potential.
Can we use psilocybin in self-medication to treat OCDs?
No, the use of psilocybin must only be done in a controlled medical framework.
What are the risks associated with the use of psilocybin?
The main risks include negative psychological reactions (anxiety, paranoia) and potential interactions with other drugs. Medical follow -up is essential to minimize these risks.
Sources:
[1] http://www.alalainbottero.fr/psilocybine-et-toc/
[3] https://presse.insterm.fr/canal-detox/les-psychedeliques-des-traitements-conre-les-troubles-psychiatrics-vrament/
[4] https://institutduceau.org/actualites/benefou-psychedeliques-dans-bans-brouble-obter-compulsif-en-quete-nouvelles-frees-frees
[5] https://www.vidal.fr/maladies/psychisme/troubles-obssectors-compulsifs-toc/traitments.html
[6] https://www.polytechnique-insights.com/tribunes/sante-et-biotech/comment-le-lsd-et-la-mdma-soignent-les-troubles-psychiatrics/
[7] https://www.ameli.fr/assure/sante/themes/toc/traitements
[8] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34784024/
