Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant Bipolar 2 Depression
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in various mushroom species, commonly referred to as magic mushrooms or psilocybin mushrooms. When ingested, psilocybin is converted into psilocin in the body, which interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain. This interaction is believed to be responsible for the altered perceptions, emotions, and consciousness associated with the psychedelic experience.
The last decade has witnessed a renaissance in psychedelic research, with studies exploring the therapeutic potential of psilocybin for various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. While the majority of research has focused on major depressive disorder, there is a growing interest in examining the role of psilocybin in the context of bipolar II depression.
On Dec 6, 2023: JAMA Psychiatry published this open-label nonrandomized controlled trial suggesting the efficacy of psilocybin with psychotherapy in BDII depression. We have discussed this article in our journal club #23 of Psychiatry Education Forum Academy.
Here is one slide from the academy’s journal club discussion, summarizing the trial design:
WHAT DID THE STUDY FOUND?:
- Total: 15 participants
- Early response was seen.
- All had lower MADRS scores at week 3.
- At week 3: 12 participants met the response criterion and 11 met remission criterion.
- At the study end point: 12 patients met both response and remission criteria.
- No risk of mania or hypomania was noted.
- Suicidality scale (CSSRS) scores did not change significantly.
- Side effects: headaches (mild)
As research progresses, it is crucial to conduct controlled clinical trials to assess both the efficacy and safety of psilocybin for individuals with bipolar II depression. While the potential benefits are exciting, responsible and informed exploration of these possibilities is key to ensuring the well-being of those seeking relief from the challenges of bipolar II disorder.
FOR ACADEMY MEMBERS:
Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant Bipolar 2 Depression
This discussion will be summarized in the following sections:
- Study Discussion: Design, Results and Conclusions.
- How Early was the Response seen with psilocybin?
- Did Response and Remission persisted till week 12?
- Risk of manic switches with psilocybin trial?
- Risk of worsening suicidality with psilocybin trial?
- What is the predictor of long-term antidepressant response with psilocybin?
- Common adverse events with psilocybin.
Also watch the following journal club discussion:
Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant Depression
This discussion will focus on following clinically relevant topics:
- Psilocybin sessions: Administrative and Integration sessions.
- Results: (a) Response; (b) Remissions; (3) Sustained Response
- Comparing Psilocybin Response to: (q) Antidepressants; (b) STAR*D
- Common and Serious Adverse Events with Psilocybin.
Psychiatry Education Forum’s Journal Club is an additional feature for our Academy’s members. Many of these journal club discussions will help you with ABPN’s ABCC Pathway track:
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