Nova Mentis Life Science Corp made significant progress in studying how psilocybin affects behavioural and cognitive impairments in fragile X syndrome (FXS).
This research not only holds promise for patients with fragile X syndrome but also has implications for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Shrooms Toronto users with ASD can explore new treatment avenues in addition to traditional therapies.
Key Takeaways:
- Microdose psilocybin therapy could effectively improve cognitive and behavioural functions in FXS without the side effects of larger doses.
- FXS is the most frequent monogenic cause of ASD.
- 1.5mg of psilocybin shows promising effects in rewiring parts of the brain for cognitive improvement in FXS rats.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Fragile X Syndrome (FXS)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism is a condition in which people have trouble socializing and communicating, may repeat certain actions, or have specific interests. Symptoms vary in form and severity and appear in early childhood.
Autism has a strong genetic component. About 20% of younger siblings of a child with autism will also be diagnosed, compared to the 1% to 2% risk in the general population.
Fragile X Syndrome (FXS)
FXS results from a crossed mutation in the FMR1 gene on one’s X chromosome, which leads to the absence of a protein important for brain development. It is a genetic condition causing intellectual disability, behavioural and learning challenges, and distinct physical features. It is the most frequent monogenic cause of ASD. It affects both genders, with males more frequently and severely impacted. The prevalence is about 1 in 3,600-4,000 males and 1 in 4,000-6,000 females.
How Do They Differ?
In ASD, the central challenge lies in social interaction, whereas in FXS, it primarily revolves around intellectual function and heightened anxiety levels. People with FXS crave social connection but may struggle due to their social anxiety, which hinders their ability to engage effectively. Those with ASD often lack awareness of social cues and, therefore, don’t actively seek out social interaction.
Can Psilocybin in Magic Mushrooms Treat Autism and Fragile X Syndrome?
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp., a biotech firm focusing on psilocybin treatments for neuroinflammatory conditions, completed a successful study testing oral microdoses of psilocybin.
Research conducted in Dr. Viviana Trezza’s lab at Rome Tre University discovered that a small amount significantly enhanced behavioural and cognitive issues in a genetic model of Fragile X syndrome (FXS).
Methods
The study evaluates the efficacy of various oral doses of psilocybin in a rat model of FXS. Researchers used the Fmr1 knock-out (Fmr1 KO) rat, an established genetic model of FXS.
Wild-type control and Fmr1 KO animals were treated with 0.1 mg/kg and 0.3 mg/kg oral psilocybin every other day for six treatments over two weeks. On day 18, researchers conducted an object recognition test.
Results
The 0.1 mg/kg and 0.3 mg/kg doses effectively reversed cognitive impairments in Fmr1 KO animals. The 0.1 mg/kg dose was the most effective and showed no apparent side effects. This dose in rats translates to approximately 1.5 mg in a 70 kg person.
These results suggest that microdose psilocybin therapy could effectively improve behavioural functions without the side effects of larger doses.
People Who Used Psilocybin and Other Psychedelics for Autism (Anecdotal)
Aaron Orsini
He first took LSD at 27 and experienced a profound transformation in 2014. He periodically uses LSD and psilocybin, and he noted improved emotional awareness and social perception. He also found MDMA transformative, which aided in addressing trauma and self-doubt associated with being autistic in a predominantly non-autistic society.
Alyx
Alyx, diagnosed with autism at age five, found relief from social anxiety and isolation after taking psilocybin truffles. Significant social anxiety reduction enables eye contact and more comfortable engagement with others. Psychedelics offered hope for a life beyond isolation and gaming addiction.
Psilocybin-Assisted Treatment
Evidence indicates psilocybin’s effectiveness in treating major depression and treatment-resistant depression. Emerging studies suggest it could also help with alcohol use disorder, smoking cessation, anorexia treatment, and existential distress in dying patients. While psilocybin treatment isn’t currently a therapeutic option for conditions like FXS and ADS, patients with these conditions might still benefit from exploring this treatment approach.
Treatment Approach
- Preparation: Therapists establish rapport to ensure patients feel supported and comfortable during their psilocybin session.
- Psilocybin Session: Patients receive a dose of synthetic psilocybin while lying in a comfortable room. They listen to curated music and wear an eye mask to enhance internal focus. A therapist accompanies them throughout the 6—to 8-hour experience.
- Integration: After the session, patients are encouraged to discuss their experiences with the therapist to integrate insights and emotions from the psilocybin session into their daily lives.
Psilocybin Products for Autism and Fragile X Syndrome
Product | Description | Benefits | Recommended Use | Type |
Alacabenzi | Offers a milder psychedelic experience that resembles strong cannabis edibles | Physical and spatial effects
Relaxing sensation |
Ideal for night relaxation, cuddling, and deep meditation | Dried mushrooms |
Golden Teacher | Renowned for shamanistic properties and spiritual effects.
Provides enlightenment and connection with nature |
Shamanistic properties
Enlightenment Mood-enhancement |
Take a walk in nature to enhance the spiritual effects during your trip. | Dried mushrooms |
Bright Future Neon Vision | Liquid tincture blend of nootropics, organic mushrooms, and adaptogens. | Enhances cognitive function and boosts creativity
Alleviates anxiety and depression and offers crash-free energy |
Take 1 ml doses as needed before tasks or follow a schedule for chronic depression/anxiety management. | Microdose Tincture |
Evoke | Microdose capsules combine psilocybin mushrooms with various health-boosting ingredients. | Improves mood, creative thinking, productivity, and focus without inducing euphoria. | Microdose as needed before tasks or follow a schedule | Microdose capsules |
Wrapping It Up
ASD and FXS may share some symptoms, but they’re distinct conditions. Even small doses of psilocybin from shroom products at Zoomies Canada could improve cognitive and behavioural deficits associated with these disorders. Anecdotal reports suggest that psilocybin may positively influence the social aspects of autism.
While the study is still in its early stages, researchers are optimistic about its potential to benefit Fragile X syndrome patients. They’re preparing to submit their promising findings to Health Canada for Phase 2A trials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can psilocybin therapy be combined with other autism treatments?
Yes, but it must be done under a doctor’s supervision.
- Consult a Doctor. Talk to a healthcare provider experienced in autism and psilocybin therapy.
- Check for Interactions. Ensure there are no harmful interactions with other medications.
- Combine with Therapies. Psilocybin can be used alongside behavioural and occupational therapies with proper coordination.
- Monitor Regularly. Regular check-ups are needed to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Personalized Treatment. Tailor treatments to the individual’s unique needs and responses.
What should I do if I’m alone and I have a bad reaction to psilocybin?
If you have a bad reaction to psilocybin alone, stay calm, change your setting to a safe place, practice deep breathing, stay hydrated, reach out to someone you trust, distract yourself, wait it out, and seek medical help if necessary.
What should I consider before trying psilocybin for autism?
- Talk to a qualified healthcare professional who knows about psychedelic therapy.
- Think about your health and any medications you’re taking.
- Learn about psilocybin’s effects on autism.
- Have someone you trust with you during the experience.
- Choose a safe and comfortable place for the session.
- Be realistic about what psilocybin can do.
- Plan to talk about the experience afterward.
- Decide if it’s right for you based on your situation.