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The Potential Role of Psilocybin in Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery: A Narrative Review

Summary

This review examines how psilocybin, a compound found in certain mushrooms, may help people recover from traumatic brain injuries. The research suggests that psilocybin could reduce harmful inflammation in the brain, help the brain form new connections to compensate for damage, and improve mood and depression commonly experienced after brain injuries. While promising, the authors emphasize that more clinical trials are needed to confirm safety and effectiveness before psilocybin can be used to treat brain injury patients.

Background

Traumatic brain injury affects approximately 69 million people worldwide annually, with survivors experiencing extended physical, cognitive, and psychological difficulties. Current treatments remain insufficient, and new therapeutic approaches are needed to address neurodegeneration and inflammation associated with TBI.

Objective

This narrative review explores psilocybin’s potential as a therapeutic agent in traumatic brain injury patients by examining its anti-inflammatory properties, neuroplasticity promotion, and ability to alleviate associated mood disorders.

Results

Psilocybin demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects by reducing pro-inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-8), promotes neuroplasticity through increased dendritic spine density and synaptogenesis, and shows promise in treating depression and addiction. Adverse effects include headaches, nausea, anxiety, dizziness, and elevated blood pressure.

Conclusion

Assisted psilocybin use may benefit TBI recovery by reducing inflammation, promoting neuroplasticity and neuroregeneration, and alleviating mood disorders. However, more extensive clinical trials are necessary to establish safe protocols and direct effectiveness in TBI patients.
  • Published in:Brain Sciences,
  • Study Type:Narrative Review,
  • Source: 10.3390/brainsci15060572; PMID: 40563744
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