Summary:

Assessing the effect of Psilocybin, a serotonin 5-HT2 agonist, in OC-spectrum disorders (e.g.
obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorder, somatoform disorder)

Stephan Ludewig

Summary
Several studies suggest a role for serotonin (5-HT) in the aetiology and pathogenesis of oc-spectrum
disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorders, eating disorders and somatoform disorders.
Serotonin dysfunctions also could contribute to obsessive behaviors, dysphoric mood and impulse
dyscontrol in oc-spectrum disorders. This view is supported by the partial efficacy of serotonin
enhancing drugs in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD) and related disorders
such as anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN) and somatoform disorders (SD). Psilocybin, a
serotonin 5-HT2A agonist, induces in a medium dosage a generally well controllable altered state of
consciousness characterized by changes in sensory perception, affect and mood, thought processes,
and ego-functioning. There is some evidence from numerous studies indicating that Psilocybin alters
self-perception and activates different emotional states. An abnormal self-perception of figure and
weight, decreased self-control such as impulse dyscontrol and obsessive behaviors, and decreased
value of self-confidence are common features of oc-spectrum disorders. The involvement of 5-HT
and specifically the 5-HT receptors functioning in the aetiology and pathogenesis of OCD, AN, BN
and SD (Arranz et al. 2001; Kaye et al. 1998; Frank et al. 2002; Stein, 2000) supports our hypothesis:
that Psilocybin contributes to alterations in psychological factors and may exert beneficial effects in
patients suffering from these disorders. The primary aim of the proposed project is to investigate the
effects of a single moderate dose of Psilocybin on psychological factors involved in oc-spectrum
disorders. If we are able to demonstrate beneficial effects of Psilocybin on immediate behavior or the
course of oc-spectrum disorders in this pilot study, we suggest to conduct further studies investigating
the repeated administration of Psilocybin in these disorders.

Specific aims
 Investigation into the role of serotonin in oc-spectrum disorders using the 5-HT 2A agonist
psilocybin.
 How do psilocybin`s effects on emotion and cognition in patients with oc-spectrum disorders
affect features of the patient`s self-perception and clinical symptoms?
 Is psilocybin a substance of interest for further studies investigating its repeated use in the
treatment of oc-spectrum disorders?