Psilocybin dose induces lasting brain changes and improves mental well-being

11 articles · Updated · ScienceAlert · May 5

Robin Carhart-Harris's team studied 28 first-time users given 25mg, finding higher brain entropy during the trip predicted next-day insight and better wellbeing a month later.
EEG, fMRI and DTI scans showed temporary disruption of established brain activity patterns, helping explain psilocybin's reported benefits in depression, addiction and anxiety.
The Nature Communications study used a 1mg control session, but researchers and critics said brain entropy may be an incomplete marker and longer-term functional changes still need clarification.

If one dose of psilocybin can physically remodel the brain, what are the unforeseen long-term consequences we are currently overlooking?

With the FDA fast-tracking psychedelic therapies, are we truly on the verge of curing depression or just creating a new pharmaceutical market?

As psychedelics promise a mental health revolution, how will society draw the line between controlled medicine and widespread recreational use?