Magic mushroom compound may repair brain damage from opioid addiction
NCT ID NCT06160284
First seen Jul 06, 2026 · Last updated Jul 08, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This early-phase trial investigates whether a single dose of psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, can increase synaptic density — the connections between brain cells — in people with opioid use disorder. Twelve medically healthy adults who have been abstinent from opioids for at least a week will receive psilocybin and undergo PET brain scans before and after dosing. The study focuses on changes in the prefrontal cortex, a brain region involved in decision-making and impulse control.
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 psilocybin increases synaptic density in key brain areas, it could point toward a new treatment approach for opioid use disorder that targets brain repair rather than just symptom management.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small early-phase trial with only 12 participants, so results may not apply broadly. Psilocybin can cause temporary psychological distress, and the study does not test long-term recovery or relapse prevention.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Yale University
RECRUITINGNew Haven, Connecticut, 06520, United States
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