Exploring how psilocybin affects the brain to relieve chronic pain
Official title: Investigating the Cortical Action of Psilocybin in Chronic Pain
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11165327 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how psilocybin, a natural compound, might help people with chronic pain by exploring how it works in the brain, and it could lead to new ways to manage pain for those who haven't found relief with other treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 9, 2025 |
| Project end | October 8, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS143421-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11165327 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are adults over 21 years old suffering from chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, cancer pain, or cluster headaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain conditions or those who do not respond to serotonin-based treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, on chronic pain management. It aims to understand how psilocybin interacts with specific serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly focusing on the non-hallucinogenic 5HT2c receptor, which may play a role in reducing pain sensitivity. By studying these mechanisms, the research hopes to identify new treatment pathways for chronic pain conditions that currently lack effective therapies. Patients may be involved in trials to assess the safety and efficacy of psilocybin for pain relief.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for chronic pain that do not rely on opioids.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary studies have shown promise in using psilocybin for chronic pain management, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rogers, Sophie — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Rogers, Sophie
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.