UTHealth Houston Seeks Participants for Study on Psilocybin (“Magic Mushrooms”) for Depression

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UTHealth Houston is currently recruiting participants for a study exploring the potential of psilocybin, a compound found in “magic mushrooms,” to treat individuals with treatment-resistant depression.

Dried psilocybin mushrooms (photo credit: Rich Townsend/Getty Images).

The study, conducted by the Center of Excellence on Mood Disorders, is part of a global multi-center initiative sponsored by COMPASS Pathways. The trial will involve a single administration of either 25 mg of psilocybin or a placebo. Participants will be closely monitored and supported by specially trained therapists throughout the process. These therapists will guide them before, during, and after the psilocybin session to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

A key requirement for participation is that all individuals on antidepressants must taper off their medication 3 to 6 weeks before the study’s baseline phase. The study team will assist with this tapering process to ensure patient safety.

Psilocybin has garnered significant attention in recent years for its potential to alleviate symptoms of mood disorders. Although it is still being studied, numerous early trials have shown promising results.

Dr. Thomas Meyer, a professor of psychiatry at UT Health and a co-investigator on the study, says his team has already completed two phases of research examining safety and ideal dosage for psilocybin.

“[Participants experienced] significant reduction in depression score”, says Meyer. “A large portion showed signs of improvement, with some patients achieving as much as a 50% decrease in depressive symptoms.”

For more details, reach out to Maya Ibrahim at utmooddisorders@uth.tmc.edu or call 713-486-2515.

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