Cocaine abuse is becoming a growing problem in several parts of the world.
According to the United Nations, both cocaine production and the number of deaths linked to the drug are increasing.
At the same time, there is still no approved medication for cocaine addiction or other stimulant-related substance abuse.
As a result, researchers are searching for new treatment options, The Guardian reports.
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A research team from the University of Alabama has published findings in Jama Network Open examining whether psilocybin could help people stop using cocaine.
Psilocybin is a psychedelic substance found naturally in certain mushrooms, often referred to as “magic mushrooms.”
Treatment combined with therapy
The study involved 36 people with cocaine addiction. All participants wanted to stop using the drug.
Some participants received psilocybin, while others were given a placebo. Both groups also took part in sessions with therapists.
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According to the researchers, the substance may help the brain break away from rigid thought patterns and habits. This could play an important role in addiction treatment.
Results of the study
The study also stood out because most of the participants were Black Americans, which is unusual in this type of research in the United States.
The researchers also tried to avoid attracting participants who were mainly interested in psychedelic drugs.
For that reason, the trial was promoted as support for people who wanted to quit cocaine.
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The results showed that participants who received a single dose of psilocybin were more likely to stop using cocaine than those who received the placebo.
However, the researchers emphasized that larger studies are still needed.
Sources: The Guardian, the United Nations, and Jama Network Open.
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