Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a mental health condition affecting the eating behaviors of the affected individuals. It results in feelings of distress about body shape and body weight. Patients with AN tend to restrict their eating behaviors because they fear altering their body weight and shape. At present, the condition is expensive to manage and hard to treat since there are no confirmed medications available.
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Research Objective
The researchers desired to understand if Psilocybin is a safe and effective option for anorexia nervosa patients. They got inspired by previous research on Psilocybin, showing its potential to improve cognitive flexibility and alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Study Development
The researchers did an open-label phase 1 feasibility study to analyze the desired outcomes. Initially, 158 women showed an interest in participation. Out of those 158, ten adult female individuals became study participants after they fulfilled the criteria for anorexia nervosa and pAN (partial remission). Scientists gave a single dose of Psilocybin (25 mg) to 10 women while providing conjunctive psychological therapy.
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Analysis of the Outcomes
Scientists primarily analyzed if Psilocybin therapy is safe and tolerable in patients with AN. They used measurements of vital signs, lab tests, ECG, and suicidal ideation to analyze the abovementioned variables on periodic visits. Researchers also analyzed any reported side effects caused by Psilocybin. They didn’t see any statistically significant changes in vital signs and ECG findings. However, they noted hypoglycemia in 2 individuals that was resolved in 24 hours. Psilocybin didn’t cause any significant adverse events in participants, researchers noted.
Evaluating the Impact of Psilocybin on Anorexia Nervosa
At the 1-month interval, the participants’ concern for their body weight and shape was slightly decreased. However, these changes didn’t show a consistent pattern. In general, the results remained highly variable among individuals. The body mass index assessments also didn’t exhibit any desired findings.
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Participant Response to Psilocybin Therapy
In general, the acceptance of Psilocybin therapy was favorable among the study participants. 80% categorized the therapy experience as one of the top five most meaningful experiences of their lives. 7 study participants noted improved quality of life and upbeat personality changes post-therapy.
Study Conclusiveness: Assessing the Findings
Scientists noted an overall positive effect on participants while warning against interpreting this study’s results without due concern to many limitations. They also highlight the potential selection bias and diversity problems in their study. Addressing these issues in further research may yield more insightful results.
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Addressing Limitations
The scientists encourage analyzing the role of Psilocybin in well-controlled clinical studies. They also encourage studying a more diverse patient sample and analyzing this impact in severe AN. The adequate dosage, frequency, and requirement for supportive therapy also need to be examined closely.
Final thoughts
The study provides a first look at the possibility of treating anorexia nervosa using Psilocybin therapy. It also details an initial picture of the safety of this therapy. In addition, it directs further studies in the right direction.
References
Knatz Peck, S., Shao, S., Gruen, T., Yang, K., Babakanian, A., Trim, J., Finn, D. M., & Kaye, W. H. (2023). Psilocybin therapy for females with anorexia nervosa: a phase 1, open-label feasibility study. Nature Medicine. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-023-02455-9
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