Short-Term and Late-Term Effects of Psilocybin on Symptoms in Major Depression
JAMA Network Open May 15, 2026 Hampus Yngwe, Pontus Plavén-sigray, Carl Johan Ekman et al. 1 citation
A single 25 mg dose of psilocybin, combined with psychotherapeutic support, produced rapid antidepressant effects in people with moderate to severe recurrent major depressive disorder. Depressive symptoms, measured by the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale, improved significantly more in the psilocybin group than in the placebo group by day 8, with benefits lasting through day 42 but not at one year. Self-reported depressive symptoms showed improvement as early as day 2 and persisted for over three months. The treatment was generally well tolerated, though two participants experienced persistent severe anxiety requiring medical attention. These findings suggest psilocybin may offer a rapid and relatively durable antidepressant effect.