Single-Dose Psilocybin for a Treatment-Resistant Episode of Major Depression
New England Journal of Medicine – November 02, 2022
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
A single 25 mg dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin dramatically reduced depression scores for individuals with treatment-resistant depression over three weeks. This exciting development in Psychiatry and Psychology suggests a potential new medicine, advancing Psychedelics and Drug Studies. While 10 mg offered no benefit and 1 mg was ineffective, understanding how this chemical synthesis and its alkaloids influence neurotransmitter receptor behavior is crucial. Adverse effects were observed.
Abstract
In this phase 2 trial involving participants with treatment-resistant depression, psilocybin at a single dose of 25 mg, but not 10 mg, reduced depression scores significantly more than a 1-mg dose over a period of 3 weeks but was associated with adverse effects. Larger and longer trials, including comparison with existing treatments, are required to determine the efficacy and safety of psilocybin for this disorder. (Funded by COMPASS Pathfinder; EudraCT number, 2017-003288-36; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03775200.).