Psilocybin Use in an Intercollegiate Athlete with Persisting Symptoms After Concussion: A Case Report

Background: Persisting symptoms after concussion is a complex syndrome warranting exploration into further treatment options. Emerging research highlights the potential of classic psychedelics, such as psilocybin, in managing neuropsychiatric conditions and promoting neuroprotection. Case Report: A case is presented of a 22-year-old male intercollegiate athlete who sustained a concussion and developed persisting symptoms despite multidisciplinary standard care. The symptom burden remained relatively stable for the first month post-concussion. He independently administered three 250 milligram (mg) doses of the dried fruiting body of Psilocybe cubensis (2.5 mg of psilocybin) on days 42, 45, and 46 post-injury. He reported immediate symptom relief, including improvements in headache, noise sensitivity, and cognitive function. His symptom severity score decreased from 25 to 11 and his affective symptom burden resolved completely. Functional improvements allowed him to return to full activity. No adverse effects were reported. Conclusions: This case highlights the potential role of classic psychedelics as adjuvant agents in treating persisting symptoms after concussion. Clinicians should be aware that athletes may explore psychedelics as alternative treatments. Further research is needed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of psilocybin in concussion recovery.