The University of Georgia Arch in Athens, Georgia, on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024. (Photo/Libby Hobbs) “Magic mushrooms,” or psilocybin, is a promising alternative treatment for those who experience medication-resistant depression and anxiety. Former studies suggest psychedelic fungi can elicit positive effects for people suffering from certain mental illnesses.
One major question still hangs in the air, according to a UGA press release: is psilocybin truly a safe alternative to traditional medication? Researchers at the University of Georgia conducting a new meta-analysis suggest that may be the case.
JAMA Network Open published a study that found when psilocybin is given as a therapeutic single-dose, it produces similar side effects to traditional antidepressant medication, including headaches, nausea and dizziness. These were generally well tolerated by participants and the effects faded within one to two days, the release said.
“We still don’t know what side effects long-term use of psilocybin will produce,” Joshua Caballero, an author of the paper and an associate professor in UGA’s College of Pharmacy, said in the release. “Less common adverse effects warrant more study with larger trials to fully assess these possible conditions.” AJC’s Politically Georgia radio show hits the road, first stop Athens UGA holds groundbreaking for new medical school Athens commissioner Dexter Fisher endorses Lexy Doherty for Congress
UGA study finds similar side effects between magic mushrooms and antidepressants
