Testing Psilocybin as a Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

The University of Calgary’s Hotchkiss Brain Institute is poised to launch an innovative clinical trial investigating the use of psilocybin in treating alcohol use disorder (AUD). This trial, involving 128 participants diagnosed with AUD, integrates psychedelic therapy with structured talk-therapy sessions under the guidance of trained therapists.

Initiating the Trial with Integrated Psychotherapy

The trial will commence with a series of psychotherapy sessions, as disclosed by the principal investigator, Dr. Leah Mayo. Following the initial psychotherapy, participants will receive doses of psilocybin, with the aim to evaluate whether the psychedelic enhances the therapy’s effectiveness. Psilocybin, a psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms, is known for its ability to induce profound changes in perception, emotion, and thought processes, potentially offering new pathways for therapeutic intervention.

Dosage and Therapy Sessions

Participants will be administered psilocybin in controlled doses during sessions lasting eight hours. The entire treatment will span five weeks of psychotherapy focused on fostering significant behavioral changes to reduce or cease alcohol consumption. Dr. Mayo noted the unique property of psilocybin to increase the brain’s receptivity to new habits, which is critical in overcoming addiction.

Scientific Backing and the Role of Motivational Enhancement Therapy

Dr. David Hodgins, co-principal investigator and professor of psychology, emphasized the scientific foundation of the trial. The researchers aim to establish psychedelic therapy as a frontline treatment through rigorous scientific validation. The chosen method for the trial, motivational enhancement therapy, is designed to help participants develop lasting and positive habits by discovering personal motivations and effective strategies for change.

Support and Collaboration

The trial is supported by the Canadian Institutes in Health Research, which recognizes the transformative potential of research to address critical health issues. Filament Health, a botanical psychedelic drug development company, will supply the psilocybin used in the trial, ensuring that all aspects of the study are conducted with the highest standards of safety and efficacy.

Participation and Broader Implications

Individuals interested in participating in this promising trial can reach out to the project team via email at pactlab@ucalgary.ca. This trial is part of a broader movement in the pharmaceutical industry, with companies like atai Life Sciences N.V. also advancing research on psychedelic therapies. The outcomes of these studies could pave the way for new, legally approved treatments for mental health conditions, offering hope to those for whom traditional therapies have fallen short.