Magic mushroom compound could treat alcohol dependence and OCD
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A hallucinogenic compound found in "magic mushrooms" could lead to a new antidepressant, says research published in The Lancet Psychiatry.
Psilocybin occurs naturally in some kinds of mushroom. Best known for its psychedelic effects, recent studies suggest it could help people with alcohol dependence, end-of-life anxiety, andobsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Recent research has also questioned the idea that psychedelic substances have a negative effect on mental health. Some evidence suggests that psychological distress and suicidality may be lower among previous users of psychedelics, compared with users of other substances.
Like existing antidepressants, psilocybin targets the serotoninreceptors in the brain. Human and animal brain images indicate that its effects may be similar to those of other treatments.
This could make it useful for treating depression, which affects 6.7 percent of Americans aged 12 years and over.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and antidepressants are common treatments, but 1 in 5 patients do not respond to therapy, and many relapse.
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