Study: How a Single Dose of Psilocybin Reshapes the Brain — For the Better
In a recent thread, Nicholas Fabiano, MD, shared findings from a study exploring the brain effects of a single high-dose psilocybin experience in adults with no prior psychedelic use. The study used tools like EEG, fMRI, and DTI to monitor brain changes during and after psilocybin intake. Participants described the experience as one of the most unusual states of consciousness they’d ever had with positive changes in well-being and cognitive flexibility observed a month later.
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Key Takeaways:
- Increased Brain Entropy: Psilocybin increases brain entropy, or the amount of unpredictability in brain activity. This heightened brain flexibility is linked to both the immediate “psychedelic” effects and the longer-term therapeutic benefits.
- Neuroplasticity: Imaging showed changes in the brain’s structure, particularly in areas linked to higher mental functions. This echoes earlier animal studies suggesting psilocybin can promote neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new connections.
- Therapeutic Implications: The brain changes seen after psilocybin use—like increased cognitive flexibility—could explain its potential to help people with conditions like depression or PTSD. The study found that these changes were evident as early as one hour post-dose. Suggesting that psilocybin’s therapeutic benefits can be predicted from acute brain activity.
- Long-term Effects: After one month, participants showed improved well-being and psychological insight. These lasting effects are part of why psilocybin is being explored as a treatment for mental health conditions.
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Overall, the study offers a deeper understanding of how psilocybin changes brain function and anatomy, and how those changes relate to its therapeutic potential.
