Magic mushroom compound targets Depression's blahs in small trial
NCT ID NCT06230757
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This small pilot study tested whether a single 25mg dose of psilocybin, given with psychological support, could help people with treatment-resistant depression who still struggle with anhedonia—the inability to feel pleasure or interest. Twenty adults took either the full dose or a very low 'active placebo' dose. Researchers measured changes in self-reported anhedonia scores over time. The study is already completed, and results may show whether this approach is worth testing in larger trials.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- psilocybin (a psychedelic compound)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a new way to treat the loss of pleasure and interest (anhedonia) that often doesn't improve with standard antidepressants.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small pilot study with only 20 people, so results may not apply broadly. Psilocybin can cause intense psychological effects and is not yet approved for depression.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Aurora, Colorado, 80045, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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- Can a psychedelic trip plus a gentle ear zap lift depression?