This open-label, single-arm early Phase I trial (n=20) will assess the feasibility, tolerability, and potential effectiveness of a single 25 mg dose of psilocybin in promoting abstinence from methamphetamine in adults undergoing residential addiction treatment.
Conducted by Dr Kevin Murnane at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, this pilot study targets individuals diagnosed with methamphetamine use disorder who have expressed a desire for complete abstinence and are already in treatment.
Participants will undergo extensive screening, baseline assessments, and three preparatory sessions (two of which may be virtual) before receiving the psilocybin dose. The administration session, lasting 6–8 hours, will be monitored by trained staff and include cardiovascular safety checks. Follow-up care includes two integration sessions and multiple telehealth and in-person check-ins over 120 days to assess outcomes such as abstinence, craving reduction, mood, cognitive function, and quality of life. The study will also explore the subjective aspects of the psychedelic experience and its impact on long-term recovery. This research may inform future treatments for stimulant addiction in underserved populations.
Trial Details
The primary purpose of this study is to preliminarily determine if the use of psilocybin to promote abstinence from methamphetamine is feasible and well tolerated in populations such as those found in Northern Louisiana. Investigators will assess the impact of psilocybin-facilitated treatment on methamphetamine abstinence, craving, negative affect, cognitive function and quality of life. Components of the psilocybin experience will also be measured (persisting effects, quality of life, challenging experiences, etc). Investigators will assess feasibility and tolerability as rates of retention and challenging experiences, among other factors.Trial Number NCT06899594