Psilocybin vs. SSRI drugs for depression - who wins? (Patreon)

Researchers at Imperial College of London just published the results of a double blind study they conducted to compare psilocybin to the popular antidepressant SSRI drug Lexapro (Escitalopram).   I have to admit, I did a double take when I saw that they used a psilocybin microdose as a PLACEBO in the group that got the Lexapro

It was only 1mg for the placebo, but still... technically both groups got some psilocybin, haha.  The result was that both groups showed a substantial reduction in depression.  The psilocybin group showed a better headline improvement vs. Lexapro , however the difference did not reach statistical significance.  Some of the secondary outcomes were noteworthy, an impressive 70% of the patients in the psilocybin group had a massive 50% or better reduction in depression (vs. only 48% of those taking Lexapro) and perhaps more impressively, 57% in the psilocybin group had complete elimination of depression (remission) vs. only 28% in the Lexapro group. 

In summary - psilocybin is again looking good, but further research is required.

Slightly off topic, but I wanted to add another story/quote received from someone today that made me smile:

"Can’t thank you enough... wanted to let you know about a year ago from today I was heavily addicted to fentanyl.  A close friend of mine introduced me to dmt and it showed me a new side of life I had never even thought was possible, he showed me the GordoTek extraction...  After a few sessions I had built up the mental willpower to quit fentanyl cold turkey.  Here I am a year later completely substance free and the happiest I’ve ever been."

I LOVE IT!  And I'm really excited and happy for you too, thanks for sharing!  Keep it up, and hopefully you and everyone reading this can find others to help and we can keep this positive energy rippling outward.  This is why I do what I do.

Regards,

Gordo

p.s. Just want to add a note for anyone struggling with addiction or helping someone struggling with addiction, it is super encouraging to know that psychedelics can help, but also keep in mind that many people will ALSO need help dealing with physical withdrawal and may benefit from professional help for both the physical and mental issues surrounding addiction.  Didn't want to leave the impression that psychedelics alone are some magic cure all.