Magic mushrooms and MDMA may boost empathy, study finds

NCT ID NCT06081179

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Zurich Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether drugs that boost serotonin—like psilocybin (magic mushrooms) and MDMA (ecstasy)—increase prosocial behavior compared to a dopamine-boosting drug (methylphenidate/Ritalin). 122 healthy adults received single doses and completed tasks measuring empathy, moral decisions, and generosity. The goal was to understand the brain chemistry behind social behavior, not to treat any disease.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Psilocybin, MDMA, and methylphenidate
What this could lead to: If successful, this study could help us understand how serotonin affects social behavior, potentially guiding future treatments for social disorders.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study in healthy volunteers, not patients. Results may not apply to real-world social behavior or lead to any treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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As listed by the trial registrant

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

HEALTHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Psychiatrische Universitätsklinik Zürich

Zurich, Canton of Zurich, 8032, Switzerland

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