Updated: 2026-01-07
Rector Advisor, Vice Dean, and Faculty Member - Istanbul Kent University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Departmant of Pharmocology
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
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"The mental health world has focused in recent years on the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, a hallucinogen known as "magic mushrooms." Seen as a ray of hope for patients who don't respond to traditional antidepressants, these substances are dividing the medical community and politicians alike."
Two Different Experiences: Healing or Trauma?
The effects of psychedelic substances can vary dramatically from person to person. Some patients, like actress Larissa Hope, report that psilocybin, administered under clinical supervision, has been a "turning point" in confronting suicidal tendencies and trauma, and has boosted their self-confidence.
On the other hand, figures like researcher Jules Evans draw attention to the dark side of these substances. Evans states that her experience with LSD in her youth led to lasting anxiety, panic attacks, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), emphasizing how destructive this process can be with uncontrolled use.
What do clinical trials say?
More than 20 studies, primarily in the UK but also worldwide, are testing the effects of psilocybin on depression, OCD, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Key findings from current research include:
- Fast Effect: Experts like Professor David Nutt argue that while antidepressants take weeks to show results, psilocybin can affect the relevant brain regions much faster.
- Fewer Side Effects: Some clinical trials suggest that psilocybin may deliver similar or better results than traditional medications with fewer side effects.
- Uncertainty: While many studies are promising, the scientific community is still awaiting the results of large-scale clinical trials conducted by institutions such as the British biotechnology company *Compass Pathways* before drawing definitive conclusions.
Warnings from Experts
The Royal College of Psychiatrists is approaching the issue cautiously. Reports dated 2025 warn that the illicit use of these substances could cause serious harm and that the benefits should not be exaggerated. Experts remind us that a "psychedelic revolution" is only possible with scientific evidence and strict regulations.
In conclusion, whether magic mushrooms will remain a "miracle drug" or a "high-risk substance" in medical literature will be determined by the comprehensive test results to be released in the coming period.
Assoc. Prof. Muhammet Emin Çam
Rector Advisor, Vice Dean, and Faculty Member - Istanbul Kent University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Departmant of Pharmocology
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
