Psilocybin-assisted neurofeedback for the improvement of executive functions: a randomised semi-naturalistic-lab feasibility study
Stefanie Enriquez‐geppert, Jaroslav Krc, Fiachra O'Higgins, Morten Peter Lietz
October 11, 2023 preprint DOI: 10.31234/osf.io/jqasf (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Randomized controlled trial |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 37 |
| Population | Adults with executive function deficits |
| Interventions | Psilocybin frontal-midline theta neurofeedback |
| Dose | microdose (three sessions) then psilocybin (three sessions, dose not specified per session) |
| Topics | Neuroplasticity Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Neurofeedback |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key findings | Psilocybin-assisted neurofeedback was feasible and led to self-reported improvements in daily executive functions, though no objective task-based gains were observed. |
Abstract
Executive function deficits, common in psychiatric disorders, hinder daily activities and may be linked to diminished neural plasticity, affecting treatment and training responsiveness. In this pioneering study, we evaluated the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of psilocybin-assisted frontal-midline theta neurofeedback (NF), a neuromodulation technique leveraging neuroplasticity, to improve executive functions (EFs). 37 eligible participants were randomised into an experimental (n=18) and a passive control group (n=19). The experimental group underwent three microdose sessions and then three psilocybin-assisted NF sessions, without requiring psychological support, demonstrating the approach’s feasibility. NF learning showed a statistical trend with large effect size for increases in frontal-midline theta from session-to-session with a large effect size, and non-significant but medium effect size dynamical changes within sessions. Placebo effects were consistent across groups, with no tasks-based EFs improvements, but significant self-reported gains in daily EFs -working memory, shifting, monitoring and inhibition- showing medium and high effect sizes. The experimental group’s significant gains in their key training goals underscored the approach’s external relevance. A thorough study with regular sessions and an active control group is crucial to evaluate EFs improvement and their specificity in future. Psilocybin-enhanced NF could offer significant, lasting benefits across diagnoses, improving daily functioning.
Comparable studies
Other randomized controlled trials on psilocybin, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psilocybin produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer: A randomized double-blind trial Cancer patients with life-threatening diagnoses and symptoms of depression and/or anxiety | 2016 | Randomized controlled trial | n = 51 |
| Rapid and sustained symptom reduction following psilocybin treatment for anxiety and depression in patients with life-threatening cancer: a randomized controlled trial Patients with cancer-related anxiety and depression | 2016 | Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial | n = 29 |
| Psilocybin can occasion mystical-type experiences having substantial and sustained personal meaning and spiritual significance Hallucinogen-naïve adults reporting regular participation in religious or spiritual... | 2006 | Double-blind study | n = 36 |
| Trial of Psilocybin versus Escitalopram for Depression Selected group of patients with depression | 2021 | Randomized controlled trial | |
| Effects of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy on Major Depressive Disorder Adults aged 21 to 75 years with major depressive disorder, not currently using... | 2020 | Randomized controlled trial | n = 24 |
Citations in the library
Cites 28
- Psilocybin can occasion mystical-type experiences having substantial and sustained personal meaning and spiritual significance Psychopharmacology July 7, 2006
- Psilocybin with psychological support for treatment-resistant depression: an open-label feasibility study. The Lancet Psychiatry May 17, 2016
- Pilot Study of Psilocybin Treatment for Anxiety in Patients With Advanced-Stage Cancer Archives of General Psychiatry September 7, 2010
- Psychedelics Promote Structural and Functional Neural Plasticity Cell Reports June 1, 2018
- Psychedelic effects of psilocybin correlate with serotonin 2A receptor occupancy and plasma psilocin levels Neuropsychopharmacology January 26, 2019
and 23 more in the library