Can a psychedelic trip plus a gentle ear zap lift depression?
NCT ID NCT06512194
First seen Aug 10, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a single dose of psilocybin, taken with psychological support, can ease symptoms of major depression. It also explores whether adding a non-invasive device that gently stimulates the ear—called transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation—can boost or prolong the effects. Adults with major depressive disorder will receive the psilocybin capsule and then either real or sham ear stimulation, with follow-up measuring mood, social functioning, and quality of life.
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, given as a single 25 mg capsule with psychological support, plus transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) or a sham device
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could point toward a new, rapid-acting treatment for major depression that combines a single psychedelic dose with a non-invasive nerve stimulation technique to enhance and prolong antidepressant effects.
- What could go wrong
- This is a phase 2 trial, so results are preliminary and may not generalize. Psilocybin can cause intense psychological effects and temporary distress, and the added benefit of taVNS is unproven.
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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
-
Vail Health Behavioral Health
RECRUITINGEdwards, Colorado, 81632, United States
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