Migraines triggered by psilocybin: Understanding causes, treatments, and further information
In the realm of migraine treatment, a natural psychedelic substance called psilocybin has been making waves. Although the evidence is still preliminary, some studies suggest that psilocybin, found in certain types of mushrooms, might offer relief for those suffering from migraines and cluster headaches.
Psilocybin works as a serotonin 5-HT2A receptor agonist, influencing neural circuits and vascular responses in the brain, potentially modulating migraine pathophysiology. This could explain why psilocybin might have similar effects to triptans, standard migraine drugs, on serotonin receptors.
However, the mixed results regarding psilocybin's efficacy are a subject of ongoing research. The lack of clarity surrounding optimal dosage, frequency, and long-term risks persists, and safety concerns remain due to psilocybin's hallucinogenic properties and potential systemic effects.
Despite these concerns, a small study from 2020 found that psilocybin significantly reduced the number of migraine days across a week with no serious adverse effects. In another recent study, a single dose of psilocybin reduced migraine frequency for 2 weeks by 25%, 50%, and 75% for 80%, 50%, and 30% of participants, respectively.
However, it's important to note that psilocybin may trigger headaches in susceptible individuals, possibly due to an increase in nitric oxide levels. The reasons for the mixed results and why some people experience headaches while others experience a reduction in migraine symptoms are still unclear.
As for traditional migraine treatments, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with mild to moderate migraines without nausea or vomiting. Triptans such as sumatriptan, eletriptan, or almotriptan can be used for moderate to severe migraines alongside NSAIDs.
Beta-blockers such as propranolol and metoprolol can help reduce blood vessel dilation and nervous system electrical activity to prevent migraines. Calcium channel blockers can prevent blood vessel changes relating to migraine and cluster headaches, and propranolol is an example of this class of medication.
Lifestyle changes such as stress reduction, avoiding potential triggers, increasing physical activity, getting enough sleep, quitting smoking, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule can also help prevent migraines. Antiemetics like metoclopramide or chlorpromazine can decrease nausea and vomiting during migraines.
Additionally, CGRP antagonists, a newer class of medications including rimegepant and ubrogepant, can help with both acute treatment and preventive treatment of migraines. Antidepressants like tricyclic antidepressants may help some individuals with migraine prevention. Valproate acid and topiramate are anticonvulsants that can help reduce the likelihood of migraine headache attacks.
It's crucial to remember that psilocybin is still an experimental treatment for migraines, with more research needed to evaluate its efficacy, safety, dosing, and long-term impact. The National Institute on Drug Abuse warns of health risks associated with taking psilocybin, including behavior that could cause harm, extreme fear, paranoia, anxiety, or panic, raised blood pressure and heart rate, confusion, agitation, nausea, vomiting, and mental health issues like psychosis.
In conclusion, while psilocybin shows promise in migraine prevention, it is not yet a validated treatment option. Further controlled studies are necessary to fully understand its potential benefits and risks. Until then, traditional treatments and lifestyle changes remain the primary options for managing migraines.
Psilocybin, found in certain types of mushrooms, might offer relief for those suffering from migraines and cluster headaches, but it may also trigger headaches in susceptible individuals due to an increase in nitric oxide levels. In contrast, traditional treatments for migraines such as NSAIDs, triptans, beta-blockers, and antiemetics can help manage symptoms effectively. However, it's essential to note that psilocybin is still an experimental treatment for migraines, and further research is needed to assess its long-term impact and safety in relation to mental health, dosing, and efficacy compared to established treatments.
