Magic mushroom mystery: is the 'Trip' essential for benefits?
NCT ID NCT06768944
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This study aims to find out whether the intense subjective experience caused by psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) is necessary for its positive after-effects. 128 healthy adults will receive either a high or low dose of psilocybin, combined with either a placebo or risperidone (a drug that dampens psychedelic effects). Researchers will then compare changes in mood, stress, and behavior between groups to see if blocking the 'trip' reduces any benefits.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- psilocybin (high and low dose) and risperidone
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could help scientists understand whether the psychedelic experience itself is necessary for psilocybin's lasting benefits, potentially guiding future therapies.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early Phase 2 study in healthy adults, not patients. It is small and designed to test a mechanism, not to treat any disease. Results may not apply to real-world therapy.
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
Locations
-
University of Calgary
RECRUITINGCalgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada