When both treatments unblinded, psychedelics not more effective than antidepressants
The Brown University Psychopharmacology Update May 29, 2026 DOI: 10.1002/pu.31464 via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractA systematic review and meta-analysis of 24 trials found that when both psychedelic and antidepressant trials for depression are unblinded, psychedelics are no more effective than open-label antidepressants. This result questions optimistic projections about the efficacy of psychedelics in treating depression.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Systematic review and meta-analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 24 |
| Population | Trials of psychedelics and antidepressants for depression |
| Topics | Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Antidepressant Depression economics Clinical trial Medicine |
| Key finding | When both psychedelic and antidepressant trials for depression are unblinded, psychedelics are no more effective than open-label antidepressants. |
Abstract
A systematic review and meta‐analysis comprising 24 trials has concluded that when both psychedelic and antidepressant trials in the treatment of depression are unblinded, psychedelics are no more effective than open‐label antidepressants. The findings call into question some optimistic projections about the efficacy of psychedelics in depression treatment.