Magic mushroom compound tested for Alzheimer's depression

NCT ID NCT04123314

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Johns Hopkins University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This pilot study is testing whether psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, can safely help depression in people with mild cognitive impairment or early Alzheimer's disease. Twenty participants will receive one or two doses under supportive conditions. Researchers will measure changes in depression symptoms and quality of life over the study period.

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 it works, this could point toward a new way to ease depression and improve quality of life for people with early Alzheimer's or mild cognitive impairment.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early-phase pilot study with only 20 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Psilocybin can cause intense psychological effects and is not yet proven safe or effective for this group.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease Cognitive Dysfunction Depression depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ALZHEIMER DISEASE DEPRESSION DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT

Contacts and locations

Locations

Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research
RECRUITING

Baltimore, Maryland, 21224, United States

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