Can Psychedelics Affect Serotonin Receptors?

Serotonin is hormone belonging to category of 5-hydroxytryptamine

Serotonin is a hormone belonging to the category of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5 HT). It is acting as a neurotransmitter in brain. This means the hormone is responsible for carrying the signals from one nerve cell to another throughout the body. It plays a vital role in regulating brain functions and coordinating the different body parts. Also, this substance is responsible for regulating mood, memory, sleep patterns, and performing other cognition-related jobs in the body; some of these studies have suggested that impairment in serotonin production can lead to clinical depression in some instances. The studies exploring the precise compounds, known as psychedelics, show hallucinations with substantial therapeutic impact. The psychedelic compound present in the mushroom, known as psilocybin, has been rendered the breakthrough status as far as the treatment for depression is concerned. This is being done by the leading food and drug administration (FDA) authority of the United States. Although several factors seem to be contributory to depression, however, there is one of the most common. This is being concerned with the chemical imbalances that are taking place within the brain. Especially the reduced level of the mood-regulatory hormone known as serotonin.

The therapy for curing mental illnesses involve Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

People with depressive disorders are experiencing alterations in the pathways that impact their overall mood and emotional responses and impair their capability to lead an everyday life. The therapeutic procedure for curing such cognitive illnesses includes the utilization of SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors). However, it has been found that not only conventional SSRIs but also psilocybin can demonstrate its effectiveness on serotonin receptors. Scientist and researchers worldwide are in the midst of research as well as clinical trials for gaining understanding about the interaction between SSRIs as well as psychedelics. Just like the mechanism of action involving SSRIs, the antidepressant impact of psychedelics could be illustrated through improved functional connectivity. Such compounds cure depressive disorders by rewiring brain organ, and increasing neuroplasticity.

Psilocybin, demonstrate action by modulating serotonin levels within brain

Although there might be so many people being benefited by the therapeutic impact of SSRIs. There are likely others who have been unresponsive towards this therapy. Also, such compounds must be taken daily for the prescribed duration before they start to demonstrate their effect. At the same time, SSRIs are available with a severe warning on their packaging label. In contrast, psychedelic compounds, for example, psilocybin, demonstrate their action by modulating the serotonin levels within the brain.

Efforts should be made to regulate psilocybin therapy as potential intervention for mental health

Whilst, the clinical trials and administration of psychedelics in control clinical conditions trended towards yielding results faster, and also at the same time, they are far more pronounced in comparison to the SSRIs. The latest findings that have been building upon the research on the psychedelic-based therapy for curing depressive disorder provided extremely compelling evidence and support all the efforts that have been made in regulating psilocybin therapy as the potential intervention for mental health.