Psilocybin can occasion mystical-type experiences having.pdfVIP

Psychopharmacology DOI 10.1007/s00213-006-0457-5 ORIGINAL INVESTIGATION Psilocybin can occasion mystical-type experiences having substantial and sustained personal meaning and spiritual significance R. R. Griffiths W. A. Richards U. McCann R. Jesse Received: 20 January 2006 /Accepted: 27 May 2006 # Springer-Verlag 2006 Abstract obscure the study design, six additional volunteers received Rationale Although psilocybin has been used for centuries methylphenidate in the first two sessions and unblinded for religious purposes, little is known scientifically about its psilocybin in a third session. The 8-h sessions were con- acute and persisting effects. ducted individually. Volunteers were encouraged to close Objectives This double-blind study evaluated the acute and their eyes and direct their attention inward. Study monitors longer-term psychological effects of a high dose of psilocy- rated volunteers ’ behavior during sessions. Volunteers bin relative to a comparison compound administered under completed questionnaires assessing drug effects and mys- comfortable, supportive conditions. tical experience immediately after and 2 months after Materials and methods The participants were hallucinogen- sessions. Community observers rated changes in the naïve adults reporting regular participation in religious or volunteer ’s attitudes and behavior. spiritual activities. Two or three sessions were conducted at Results Psilocybin produced a range of acute perceptual 2-month intervals. Thirty volunteers received orally admin- changes, subjective experiences, and labile moods inclu