Pulse regimen
A dosing schedule used in cluster headache and migraine trials — typically three doses of psilocybin (~10 mg each), administered approximately five days apart, over a two-week period. Distinct from the single high-dose sessions used in depression and PTSD protocols. The therapeutic effect in headache disorders does not correlate with the intensity of the psychedelic experience, suggesting a direct neurological mechanism rather than a psychotherapy-mediated one. (Schindler et al., Journal of Neurological Sciences, 2024)
Full Explanation
A pulse regimen is a dosing schedule used in cluster headache and migraine trials — typically three doses of psilocybin (~10 mg each), administered approximately five days apart, over a two-week period. Distinct from the single high-dose sessions used in depression and PTSD protocols. The therapeutic effect in headache disorders does not correlate with the intensity of the psychedelic experience, suggesting a direct neurological mechanism rather than a psychotherapy-mediated one. (Schindler et al., Journal of Neurological Sciences, 2024)
See: Cluster Headaches (/conditions/cluster-headaches).
Why It Matters
The pulse regimen shows that headache protocols differ from depression protocols — multiple smaller doses, not one high-dose session — and support a neurological rather than psychological mechanism.
Explore More Terms
Psilocybin
A naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms that produces altered states of consciousness.
Psilocin
The pharmacologically active compound that psilocybin converts to in the body, responsible for psychedelic effects.
Ego Death
A temporary dissolution of the sense of self during a psychedelic experience, often described as profound and transformative.
Set and Setting
The combination of mindset (set) and environment (setting) that shapes a psychedelic experience.
Microdosing
Taking sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin on a regular schedule for subtle cognitive and emotional benefits.
Mycelium
The vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a network of fine white filaments that eventually produces mushrooms.