Using psilocybin to treat alcoholism

There is growing evidence from small-scale clinical trials and case reports that suggest psilocybin therapy can help individuals overcome their alcohol addiction.

A significant study published in JAMA Psychiatry in August 2022 involving 93 participants with alcohol dependence found that two doses of psilocybin combined with psychotherapy led to:

Reduced drinking: An 83% reduction in heavy drinking days on average for those who took psilocybin compared to a placebo group after eight months.
Increased abstinence rates: The same study also showed that nearly half (48%) of those who received psilocybin therapy stopped drinking entirely eight months after the first dose, compared to only 24% in the placebo group.

There are several ways in which psilocybin is believed to potentially help treat alcoholism:

Psychological effects: Psilocybin has been found to have profound psychological effects, including increased feelings of well-being, spiritual experiences, and a sense of interconnectedness. These effects may help individuals struggling with alcoholism gain a new perspective on their behavior and motivations, and may help them overcome the negative patterns that led to their addiction.
Reduction of alcohol cravings: Psilocybin has been shown to reduce cravings for alcohol in some individuals. This may be due to its ability to activate the serotonin 2A receptor, which has been linked to the regulation of addictive behavior.
Neuroplasticity: Psilocybin has been shown to increase neuroplasticity, or the brain's ability to adapt and change. This may help individuals with alcoholism to overcome the negative effects that alcohol has on the brain and may help to reverse some of the damage caused by long-term alcohol abuse.

It's important to note that psilocybin is not a cure for alcoholism and should not be used as a standalone treatment. Instead, it should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes therapy, support groups, and other evidence-based treatments.