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<p>A groundbreaking study from New York&#8217;s Columbia University suggests that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/psilocybin">psilocybin</a>, the psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms may offer relief to individuals suffering from <strong>body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)</strong>. The research, <a href="https://pp.genomicpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/PP0028-Zhu-2024.pdf">published</a> in Psychedelics, explored the effects of psilocybin on brain function in BDD patients, revealing significant changes in brain connectivity that may alleviate the obsessive thought patterns central to the disorder.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Body Dysmorphic Disorder: More Than Skin Deep</h3>



<p>BDD is a mental health condition marked by an obsessive focus on perceived physical flaws, often leading to distress and isolation. Traditional treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and antidepressants, have offered limited success for many. In this new study, eight adults with moderate-to-severe BDD received a single 25 mg dose of psilocybin, followed by brain scans and symptom assessments. The study was supported by <strong>COMPASS Pathways</strong> <span class="ticker"
                data-ticker="CMPS"
                data-exchange="NASDAQ"
                style="display: inline-block;">CMPS</span> and conducted using the company&#8217;s proprietary synthetic formulation, <strong>COMP360</strong>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Study Reveals Long-Lasting Symptom Relief</h3>



<p>Results showed increased brain connectivity, especially within the <strong>Executive Control Network</strong> (ECN), which is essential for cognitive flexibility and goal-directed behavior. The ECN also enhanced its connections with the <strong>Default Mode Network</strong>, associated with self reflection and the <strong>Salience Network</strong>, which helps prioritize information. These changes predicted a noticeable reduction in BDD symptoms, maintained for up to 12 weeks post-treatment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A Step Forward, But More Research Is Needed</h3>



<p>While the study offers hope, the researchers, including lead author <strong>Dr. Xi Zhu</strong>, caution that larger controlled trials are needed to confirm psilocybin&#8217;s efficacy as a treatment for BDD. The small sample size and absence of a placebo group limit the study's conclusions. Still, the findings represent a promising step toward using psychedelics to address conditions resistant to conventional therapies.</p>



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New study suggests psilocybin may help treat body dysmorphic disorder by rewiring brain connectivity and reducing obsessive thought patterns.

Psilocybin Breakthrough: Study Reveals Potential Application For Body Dysmorphic Disorder - Compass Pathways (NASDAQ:CMPS)

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Psilocybin Breakthrough: Study Reveals Potential Application For Body Dysmorphic Disorder

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