Summary of article published on Queen’s University Faculty of Health Sciences News and Announcements page, on April 25, 2023.
Queen’s University and Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) have announced the launch of a clinical trial investigating the potential of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy as a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD). The study, led by Dr. Ruzanna Tokatlian and Dr. Stephen McNevin, aims to explore the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of using psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in hallucinogenic mushrooms, in conjunction with psychotherapy to treat AUD.
AUD is a prevalent and challenging-to-treat condition, characterized by problematic patterns of alcohol use that lead to significant distress or impairment. Current treatments for AUD, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and pharmacotherapy, can have limited success rates and high relapse rates. The researchers believe that psilocybin-assisted therapy may offer a novel approach to treating AUD by addressing the underlying psychological factors contributing to the disorder.
The clinical trial will involve 40 participants with moderate to severe AUD, who will receive either psilocybin-assisted therapy or a placebo control. The study will assess the participants’ alcohol consumption, cravings, and psychological well-being, as well as the therapy’s impact on their quality of life. Researchers will also monitor the safety and tolerability of psilocybin-assisted therapy for AUD.
The trial builds on a growing body of research suggesting that psilocybin and other psychedelic substances may have therapeutic potential for various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted psilocybin “breakthrough therapy” designation for the treatment of major depressive disorder, highlighting its potential to offer significant benefits over existing treatments.
If the trial demonstrates the safety and efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy for AUD, it could pave the way for further research and the development of novel treatment approaches for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder. The study represents an important step forward in understanding the potential therapeutic applications of psychedelic substances and their role in addressing challenging mental health conditions.
