Substance use disorders are another area where psilocybin has been studied in controlled research settings. Scientists focus on these conditions because relapse rates remain high despite available treatments, and behavioral patterns can be deeply ingrained. Modern research examines whether psilocybin-assisted therapy may support behavioral change when combined with structured psychological support.
One of the earliest modern studies on this topic was published in 2014 in the Journal of Psychopharmacology by researchers at Johns Hopkins University. This pilot study examined psilocybin-assisted therapy for tobacco use disorder and reported high rates of smoking abstinence at six- and twelve-month follow-ups. Researchers emphasized that results occurred within a carefully structured treatment program, not from psilocybin alone (Johnson et al., Journal of Psychopharmacology, 2014).
Follow-up data from the same research group was later published in 2017, reporting that a majority of participants remained abstinent from smoking more than two years after treatment. The authors cautioned that the study involved a small sample size and lacked a control group, highlighting the need for larger randomized trials (Johnson et al., Journal of Psychopharmacology, 2017).
Psilocybin has also been studied in relation to alcohol use disorder. A 2022 randomized, double-blind clinical trial published in JAMA Psychiatry examined psilocybin-assisted therapy for alcohol dependence. The study found a significant reduction in heavy drinking days compared to placebo. Researchers stressed that the intervention included psychotherapy and monitoring, and that results should not be interpreted as proof of standalone effectiveness (Bogenschutz et al., JAMA Psychiatry, 2022).
Additional substance-related research is ongoing. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has acknowledged growing interest in studying psychedelics for addiction-related outcomes while emphasizing that these compounds remain investigational. Federal agencies continue to stress that findings must be replicated in larger, multi-site trials before conclusions can be drawn (National Institute on Drug Abuse).
Researchers studying substance use disorders consistently highlight safety considerations. Individuals with substance dependence often have co-occurring mental health conditions, which increases the need for screening and professional oversight. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that integrated approaches addressing both substance use and mental health are essential when evaluating new therapies (National Institute of Mental Health).
High Science® presents substance use research to clarify what has been studied, what outcomes have been observed, and where limitations remain. While early findings have generated interest, scientists emphasize that psilocybin-assisted therapy for substance use disorders remains experimental and requires further validation through rigorous clinical trials.
SOURCES
Johnson et al., Journal of Psychopharmacology (2014) – Tobacco addiction pilot study
Johnson et al., Journal of Psychopharmacology (2017) – Long-term follow-up study
Bogenschutz et al., JAMA Psychiatry (2022) – Alcohol use disorder trial
National Institute on Drug Abuse – Psychedelic research overview
National Institute of Mental Health – Substance use and mental health
All information presented is for educational purposes only and focuses on plant science research and emerging studies. This content does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult licensed healthcare providers or trained professionals in plant-based science and natural health disciplines. All information provided is thought to be put to date with modern research and you should still do your own research and consult with professionals.
