The Potential Role of Psilocybin in Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant health concern with limited therapeutic options.
• Emerging research suggests novel therapeutic agents may offer new avenues for TBI recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential therapeutic applications of psilocybin in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• To review existing literature on psilocybin's effects and its relevance to TBI pathophysiology and treatment.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review methodology was employed.
• Searches were conducted across PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane databases for relevant studies.
• Inclusion criteria focused on articles published between 2000 and 2025 concerning psilocybin's effects, particularly in TBI patients.

Main Results:

• Twenty-nine articles met the initial inclusion criteria.
• An additional 16 articles were sourced from reference lists and public websites.
• The reviewed literature suggests psilocybin may reduce inflammation and promote neuroplasticity.

Conclusions:

• Assisted psilocybin use may offer benefits for TBI recovery by reducing inflammation, enhancing neuroplasticity and neuroregeneration, and improving mood disorders.
• Positive outcomes in depression and addiction treatment underscore the need for rigorous clinical trials investigating psilocybin's role in TBI.
• Further research is essential to establish the efficacy and safety of psilocybin as a TBI therapeutic.