The search for effective solutions for depression has led the scientific community to explore innovative treatments, such as psilocybin, the active ingredient in “magic mushrooms.” And the antidepressant escitalopram, commonly known as Lexapro or Cipralex.
The question that arises is: Which of these treatments is most effective after six months in the fight against depression. A disease that affects more than 300 million people in the world?
The need for new solutions for depression
The context is alarming: of the approximately 9 million people in the United States who suffer from severe depression and have tried pharmacological treatments, it is estimated that 2.8 million are resistant to multiple antidepressants.
According to psychobiologist Dr. Bertha Madras of Harvard Medical School, some patients have tried up to 17 different medications without success. The search for effective alternatives is more urgent than ever.
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Antidepressants: Pros and Cons
Antidepressants, such as SSRIs, have been a lifesaver for many. However, up to 30% of patients do not get relief from them. Additionally, side effects, such as sexual dysfunction, may persist long after treatment is stopped. David Nutt, director of the Neuropsychopharmacology Unit at Imperial College London, points out that psilocybin could avoid these negative effects, providing a cleaner alternative without the need for daily use.
Photography: AARP.
Psilocybin has gained attention as a potential candidate in the treatment of treatment-resistant depression. In clinical trials, this substance has been shown to not only relieve depressive symptoms, but also improve patients’ perception of happiness and well-being. In 2018, the FDA granted it “breakthrough therapy” status for resistant depression, which could accelerate its approval.
Promising but inconclusive results on depression
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A recent study compared the effectiveness of two doses of psilocybin with a six-week treatment of escitalopram. Although both treatments showed comparable improvements in depression, patients who received psilocybin reported a higher level of joy and satisfaction with their lives at six months. However, some critics warn about the need to be cautious in interpreting these results, since patients in the psilocybin group could seek additional therapy.
Ethical and future considerations
Psychedelic treatments, although promising, present challenges. More research is required to understand its long-term effects and ensure patients are adequately monitored. As Raison emphasizes, the accessibility and cost of these treatments are crucial issues that must be addressed before psilocybin can be considered a viable treatment option on a large scale.
Psilocybin and escitalopram represent two different approaches in treating depression, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Although psilocybin shows encouraging results, more research is needed to establish its long-term efficacy and safety. The search for effective solutions for depression continues, and the future may bring new hope for those suffering from this devastating illness.
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