Psilocin may reduce alcohol consumption by calming stress-related brain activity
Psilocin, derived from magic mushrooms, reduces alcohol consumption by calming stress-related brain activity in mice.
Why it matters
- Psilocin, derived from psilocybin, may help treat alcohol addiction by reducing stress-related brain activity.
- This study provides insights into the biological mechanisms behind psychedelics' effects.
By the numbers
- The study was conducted on female mice, which tend to consume more alcohol than males.
- Psilocin's effects were temporary, with alcohol consumption returning to previous levels once the drug's effects subsided.
The big picture
- The findings align with clinical observations that psychedelics can improve emotional regulation and stress resilience.
- This research could help refine therapeutic approaches for alcohol use disorder and other mental health conditions.
What they're saying
- I'm just happy these things are being researched. People who have used shrooms mostly already know this, and it's good that it's getting some scientific backing.
- Tell me things I knew at 16.
Caveats
- The study is preclinical and conducted on mice; further research is needed to confirm these findings in humans.
What’s next
- Further research is needed to understand how psilocin affects brain function related to addiction in humans.
- Scientists aim to refine therapeutic approaches and improve outcomes for people with alcohol use disorder.