Psychedelics take on alcoholism: psilocybin vs ketamine in new trial

NCT ID NCT06405607

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: University of Iowa Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests whether a single dose of psilocybin or ketamine, combined with talk therapy, can help people with moderate to severe alcohol use disorder drink less. Eighty adults who have at least four heavy drinking days per month will be randomly assigned to receive either psilocybin or ketamine along with psychotherapy. Researchers will track changes in drinking behavior and brain activity over time.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: psilocybin and ketamine
What this could lead to: If this works, it could point toward a new treatment option for alcohol use disorder using psychedelic-assisted therapy.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial with only 80 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Psychedelics can cause intense psychological experiences and are not risk-free.

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.

alcohol abuse alcohol dependence

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ALCOHOL ABUSE ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE ALCOHOL USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Iowa Health Care
RECRUITING

Iowa City, Iowa, 52240, United States

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