Psilocybin and human longevity

Psilocybin extends lifespan in aged mice, and this has prompted extensive media speculation about possible human longevity benefits. We examined mortality among prominent psychedelic personalities, researchers, and advocates who claimed psychedelic use (n = 11) and compared them with cancer (n = 12) and aging researchers (n = 5). All groups exceeded population life expectancy, reflecting the effect of socioeconomic advantage on lifespan, but psychedelic personalities did not outlive cancer and aging researchers. These findings highlight the need for rigorous mechanistic and epidemiological studies before inferring human anti-aging effects of psychedelics.

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Publication Details

Journal
npj Aging
Published
2026-04-03
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41514-026-00380-y
Primary Topic
Psychedelics and Drug Studies
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

Psilocybin and human longevity

Leonard Lerer
npj Aging
Psychedelics and Drug Studies
article

Psilocybin and human longevity

Leonard Lerer
article en

Abstract

Psilocybin extends lifespan in aged mice, and this has prompted extensive media speculation about possible human longevity benefits. We examined mortality among prominent psychedelic personalities, researchers, and advocates who claimed psychedelic use (n = 11) and compared them with cancer (n = 12) and aging researchers (n = 5). All groups exceeded population life expectancy, reflecting the effect of socioeconomic advantage on lifespan, but psychedelic personalities did not outlive cancer and aging researchers. These findings highlight the need for rigorous mechanistic and epidemiological studies before inferring human anti-aging effects of psychedelics.

npj AgingVol. 12(1)
Leonardo (United Kingdom) (GB)
Good health and well-being
Openalex Percentile: Top 20%
Psychedelics and Drug Studies
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