Magic mushroom compound tested for depression in new brain scan study

NCT ID NCT07582120

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

Summary

This study will test whether psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, can help treat depression. Fifty adults with depression will receive a 25 mg capsule of synthetic psilocybin along with therapy. Researchers will use MRI brain scans and other tests to see how psilocybin changes brain activity and psychological flexibility. The goal is to understand how it works, not yet to prove it is a cure.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

psilocybin (synthetic, 25 mg capsule)

What this could lead to

If successful, this study could point toward a fast-acting, lasting treatment for depression that works differently from current antidepressants.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase pilot study with only 50 participants. It is designed to understand how psilocybin works in the brain, not to prove it is a safe or effective treatment. Side effects are possible, and results may not apply to everyone with depression.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Washington University School of Medicine

    St Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••