Eating Disorders · Texas behavioral health news
Could psilocybin be the key to treating anorexia? - Scientific American
Eating Disorders (Google News) · August 5, 2026
In plain language
Early research suggests that psilocybin, a compound found in magic mushrooms, may help people recovering from anorexia. In small clinical trials, some participants reported that the drug, when paired with talk therapy, reduced their symptoms and increased their motivation to get better. Researchers believe the drug may help the brain become more flexible, making it easier to break old habits and thought patterns. While these results are promising, experts caution that more studies are needed to understand the risks and who the treatment helps most.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- Psilocybin therapy may reduce anorexia symptoms by helping the brain break out of rigid thinking patterns.
- A small pilot study found that half of the participants were in remission three months after treatment.
- The therapy combines doses of psilocybin with intensive talk therapy rather than focusing only on weight gain.
- Participants in clinical trials reported increased motivation to recover that lasted for up to one year.
- The FDA could potentially approve psilocybin for treating eating disorders within the next five years.
- Side effects can include psychological agitation and frightening hallucinations, requiring specialized medical support.
Could psilocybin be the key to treating anorexia? Scientific American
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