Challenges with clinical trial participants in studies with classical psychedelics: A position statement from the National Network of Depression Centers' task group on psychedelics and related compounds.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) February 5, 2026 Benjamin R Lewis, Matthew J Reid, Andrew M Novick et al.
Clinical trials of classical psychedelics like psilocybin for mental health conditions face unique challenges that may persist if these treatments enter clinical practice. Four categories of challenges with trial participants are identified: treatment nonresponse, expectancy effects and functional unblinding, post-session psychological difficulties, and contagion effects. Management strategies for study teams to mitigate these risks are described. The National Network of Depression Centers and similar organizations can guide best practices to responsibly advance this promising field.