Magic mushroom compound shows promise for tough depression
NCT ID NCT03554174
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This small pilot study tests whether psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, can change brain connections to improve depression. 18 adults with major depression who didn't get better with standard treatments will receive psilocybin. Researchers will measure brain activity and memory to see if the drug helps rewire the brain and ease symptoms.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
-
Phase 1
The first testing in people. Mainly checks safety and dose, usually in a small group.
- Participants
-
About 18 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Started
-
Feb 2018
- Expected to finish
-
Sep 2026
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
-
Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
-
18 to 65 years
- Sex
-
Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
-
Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), single or recurrent episode, and currently experiencing a Major Depressive Episode (MDE) * Failed to achieve a satisfactory clinical response to at least one adequate antidepressant trial during the current depressive episode * Currently engaged in treatment with a mental health clinician Exclusion Criteria: * Axis I psychotic disorder (e.g. schizophrenia, bipolar I, depression with psychosis) * Axis I psychotic disorder in first degree relative * Currently taking a conventional antidepressant medication * Unstable medical or neurological conditions * Significant cognitive disorders * History of intolerance to drugs known to significantly alter perception e.g., psilocybin, LSD, salvinorin A, mescaline, etc. * Pregnant, breastfeeding, lack of adequate birth control * Urine toxicology positive to drugs of abuse on experimental test days
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for Major depressive disorder are added.
Genom att skicka in godkänner du våra Användarvillkor
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
-
VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven Campus
West Haven, Connecticut, 06516, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Can an antipsychotic restore feelings in people with depression?
- Can intense brain zaps lift depression? scientists track blood flow in real time
- Can an ancient herbal capsule boost antidepressant power?
- Can talk therapy keep Esketamine's relief going?
- Can brisk walking boost antidepressant results?
- Scientists probe brain's reward system in mental illness