Magic mushroom compound shows promise for depression in new trial

NCT ID NCT06746441

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Khyber Medical University Peshawar Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This completed phase 2 trial tested whether psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) alone or combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help people with major depression. Sixty adults aged 18-70 with active depression took part. Researchers measured changes in depression scores, anxiety, and biological markers like brain chemicals and inflammation. The goal is to see if psilocybin can offer a new treatment option for depression.

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 from magic mushrooms)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new way to treat depression using psilocybin, possibly with fewer side effects than standard antidepressants.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial with only 60 people, so results may not apply to everyone. 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.

major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Lady Reading Hospital, Pakistan

Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 25000, Pakistan

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.