Psilocybin

Psilocybin and SSRI escitalopram showed similar long-term depression symptom improvements, but psilocybin offered additional benefits in psychosocial functioning, meaning in life, and psychological connectedness over 6 months. Psilocybin also improved sexual drive, unlike SSRIs, suggesting potential additional mental health benefits.

John Krystal, MD discusses the potential of ketamine and other psychedelics in treating psychiatric disorders, highlighting the antidepressant effects of ketamine and the development of drug combinations at Freedom Biosciences to extend ketamine's efficacy. The FDA's recent decision on MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD has spurred further research into psychedelics for conditions like major depression, PTSD, migraine, and substance use disorders.

Congressional lawmakers seek public input on creating a regulatory framework for psychedelic therapies, emphasizing the need for inclusive, responsible, and ethical use, and considering the cultural practices of indigenous communities.

Shortwave Life Sciences announces positive pre-clinical results for its psilocybin-based drug combination, showing safety at elevated doses, paving the way for human trials in treating anorexia.

Drug shortages, including critical antibiotics, fever medications, and cancer treatments, highlight global supply chain issues and the need for improved health policies. The FDA rejected MDMA for PTSD treatment, with psilocybin next for treatment-resistant depression. Companion apps tested for alleviating loneliness. Advanced Clinical named one of Crain's Best Places to Work in Chicago 2024. Luke Forsthoefel's thought leadership article published in Pharmaceutical Executive magazine.

Psyence Biomed announces Phase IIb study for nature-derived psilocybin in Adjustment Disorder, expands pipeline into AUD and SUDs, and plans potential acquisition of Clairvoyant Therapeutics. Two Phase II data readouts expected in 2025.

Psyence Group announces successful site initiation visit for Psyence Biomed's Phase IIb study of nature-derived psilocybin for Adjustment Disorder in Palliative Care in Australia, partnering with Fluence and iNGENū CRO. The trial will evaluate two doses of psilocybin against a low-dose comparator in 87 patients.

Aaron Martin, a financial manager, found relief from depression and addiction through psychedelic treatments in Costa Rica, leading to significant lifestyle changes. The FDA's recent denial of MDMA for PTSD treatment highlights challenges in psychedelic therapy approval, though ongoing research at the University of Iowa explores psychedelics for alcoholism treatment. Experts emphasize the necessity of combining psychedelics with psychotherapy for effective mental health treatment.

A study from Emory University estimates 5.1-5.6 million Americans treated for depression could qualify for psilocybin-assisted therapy if approved by the FDA. The research, involving Emory, UW-Madison, and UC Berkeley, suggests 56-62% of treated patients could be eligible, highlighting significant potential demand. Challenges include FDA approval, insurance coverage, practitioner training, and regional healthcare access.

A study estimates 56-62% of U.S. depression patients, or 5.1-5.6 million individuals, could qualify for psilocybin therapy if approved by the FDA, highlighting the need for further research and preparation for equitable treatment delivery.