MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Psilocybin During the Postpartum Period Induces Long-Lasting Adverse Effects in Both Mothers and Offspring

Summary

A new study shows that psilocybin, a psychedelic compound being tested for postpartum depression, may actually cause harm during the breastfeeding period. While the drug helped non-pregnant mice feel less anxious, it made postpartum mothers more anxious and worsened their caregiving behaviors. Even more concerning, baby mice exposed to psilocybin through breast milk developed mood and social problems as adults, suggesting potential lasting risks for human infants.

Background

Peripartum mood disorders affect 20% of birthing parents and are responsible for significant maternal mortality. Psilocybin has shown promise as an antidepressant with clinical efficacy for mental illness, and phase 2 clinical trials are currently recruiting postpartum parents. However, no clinical or preclinical data exists describing the safety of psychedelic use during the postpartum period.

Objective

The study aimed to examine psilocybin efficacy in a preclinical mouse model of peripartum mood disorder and assess long-term behavioral consequences of psilocybin exposure on both parous mice and their offspring compared to virgin mice.

Results

Psilocybin-treated postpartum dams showed increased anxiety and behavioral impairments, with no amelioration of impaired caregiving behavior. Conversely, virgin females treated with psilocybin exhibited anxiolytic effects. Single postnatal psilocybin exposure through breastmilk increased risk of mood and sociability disorders in adult offspring of both sexes.

Conclusion

While psilocybin is safe and effective for depression in general populations, the data suggest significant risks for postpartum exposure to both mothers and offspring. The findings highlight the critical importance of including lactating females and offspring in preclinical safety testing of drugs intended for postpartum delivery.
  • Published in:International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology,
  • Study Type:Preclinical Research,
  • Source: PMC12359495
Scroll to Top