Author:
Downey Amanda E.,Chaphekar Anita V.,Woolley Joshua,Raymond-Flesch Marissa
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Clinical trials using psilocybin therapy to treat anorexia nervosa (AN) are currently underway. The safety and tolerability of psilocybin is of utmost importance in individuals with AN who may present unique medical vulnerabilities. The purpose of this review is to describe how the common physiologic adverse effects of psilocybin may impact medical complications experienced by individuals with AN in clinical trials of psilocybin therapy.
Main body
The physiologic underpinnings of common adverse effects following psilocybin administration are described, including tachycardia, hypertension, electrocardiogram changes, nausea, headache, and lightheadedness. These anticipated physiologic changes are described in relation to the common medical correlates seen in individuals with AN. Risk mitigation strategies for each adverse effect are proposed.
Conclusion
Early evidence suggests that psilocybin therapy is well-tolerated in individuals with AN. Understanding the unique medical complications of AN, and how they may be impacted by common physiologic adverse effects of psilocybin administration, leads to tailored risk mitigation strategies to enhance safety and tolerability of this novel intervention.
Funder
National Research Service Award from the National Institute of Health
Health Resources and Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Leadership Education in Adolescent Health (LEAH-T71)
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC