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Psilocybin is the primary psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms and has been researched in clinical trials for the last two decades. Known as a recreational drug in the past, it is being studied in academic medical settings in combination with psychotherapy for treating addiction, depression and other mood disorders.
Cleveland Clinic is now part of a multisite trial with over 50 sites researching this drug to treat treatment-resistant depression. Psilocybin acts on serotonin in the brain to affect mood, cognition and perception. It is a naturally occurring compound produced by more than 200 types of fungi species.
For patients participating in the research, they will ingest either psilocybin or placebo in capsule form. They will be randomized to receive one of three psilocybin doses and monitored for at least six hours on psilocybin administration days by a therapist trained in administering psychedelics. Participants will receive psilocybin at least twice. They will be followed for 52 weeks after the initial dose.
It is important to note, this is in the research phase, and it is being investigated by psychological specialists to see if psilocybin and similar hallucinogens can treat depression. Results so far have indicated that psilocybin may be successful in treating depression and treatment-resistant depression with psychological support.
Last year, Cleveland Clinic launched its first psychedelic trial for patients with generalized anxiety disorder. Participants received a one-time dose of MindMed’s proprietary LSD formulation (one of four different doses) or placebo. Participants’ anxiety scores were assessed four weeks later to assess efficacy and determine the optimal dose for future clinical trials of LSD for generalized anxiety disorder. This trial has concluded, and topline data have been publicly reported by MindMed.
