Magic mushroom compound tested for dual depression and alcohol problems

NCT ID NCT04620759

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: Johns Hopkins University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, can help people with both major depression and alcohol use disorder. Researchers at Johns Hopkins will give 90 adults either psilocybin or a placebo and track changes in mood and drinking habits. The goal is to see if this psychedelic drug can reduce depressive symptoms and heavy drinking.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: psilocybin
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a new treatment option for people struggling with both depression and alcohol use disorder.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial with only 90 participants. The results may not apply to everyone, and psilocybin can cause intense psychological effects.

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.

alcohol abuse major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALCOHOL USE DISORDER MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research

Baltimore, Maryland, 21224, United States

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