A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology reveals that feelings of relaxation, rather than mystical experiences, are the strongest predictor of positive outcomes in psychedelic-assisted therapy for treating mental health disorders. The research, conducted at the University of Fribourg in Switzerland, challenges the prevailing belief that transformative experiences like ego dissolution drive the antidepressant effects of psychedelics.
As the U.S. celebrates Veterans Day, a growing number of war veterans are turning to psychedelic-assisted therapy for relief from PTSD. While clinical trials show promising results, legal and governmental barriers continue to prevent many veterans from accessing these potentially life-changing treatments. This article explores the need for expanded access to psychedelic therapies, the legal hurdles they face, and the ongoing advocacy efforts to provide veterans with the healing they deserve.
Compass Pathways, a leading developer of psilocybin-based therapies, has announced significant delays for its two key Phase 3 clinical trials. These delays, attributed to unexpected complexities in trial logistics and a need to maintain trial blinding integrity, have led to a 30% workforce reduction, including senior management roles. The company remains committed to its COMP360 program for treatment-resistant depression, focusing resources on completing trials and navigating regulatory processes.
Sam Altman, OpenAI co-founder and ChatGPT visionary, shares his personal journey with psychedelics, highlighting their impact on his mental health and his vision for their future in mental health care through his investment in Journey Colab. Journey Colab aims to bring psychedelic therapies like MDMA and psilocybin to market for conditions like depression, PTSD, and addiction, starting with luxury rehab centers but with a commitment to accessibility for marginalized communities.
Clearmind Medicine has filed a patent for a new combination therapy for addiction, involving Ibogaine and Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA). The therapy, developed in collaboration with SciSparc, aims to improve the safety and efficacy of Ibogaine-based treatments for opioid, cocaine, and other substance use disorders.
Psyence Biomedical, a biotechnology company focused on natural psychedelic-based solutions for mental health, has announced significant progress in its clinical trials and partnerships. The company is currently conducting a Phase IIb clinical trial in Australia for psilocybin-assisted therapy for Adjustment Disorder in palliative care and is expanding its pipeline into Substance Use Disorders, particularly Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). These developments position Psyence for key data readouts in 2025, potentially leading to commercial success.
The FDA has requested additional phase 3 trials for MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD, putting a hold on potential landmark approval. Despite this setback, Lykos Therapeutics remains committed to navigating the FDA’s requirements, while other psychedelic therapies continue to progress in clinical trials.
Psyence Biomedical has initiated the first clinical trial site in Australia for its Phase IIb study exploring the potential of psilocybin as a treatment for Adjustment Disorder in palliative care patients. The trial, conducted in partnership with Fluence and iNGENū CRO, aims to assess the efficacy of Psyence’s naturally sourced psilocybin drug, PEX010, and could pave the way for a pivotal Phase III program.
A new study reveals that while LSD dosage is a primary driver of its effects, individual differences in mood, personality, and prior psychedelic experience significantly influence the experience. The study underscores the importance of tailoring psychedelic therapies to individual needs.
A new study reveals growing interest among athletes and sports staff in the U.S. and Canada towards using psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) for concussion recovery. The research, published in Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology, surveyed 175 individuals, finding a significant willingness to explore PAT, particularly with psilocybin, as a treatment option for sports-related head injuries. This study highlights the potential of psychedelics in sports medicine and opens doors for further research into their efficacy and safety.
