Exploring the use of psilocybin to help with stress-related relapse in addiction
Official title: Therapeutic potential of psilocybin on stress-cued reinstatement
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11165933 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how psilocybin, a substance found in certain mushrooms, might help people with opioid use disorder and PTSD by reducing stress that can lead to relapse, and it aims to find safer ways to use it for treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $46,429 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DA063346-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11165933 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from opioid use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, particularly those who experience stress-related relapse.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have opioid use disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of psilocybin, a classic psychedelic, to reduce stress-induced relapse in individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study aims to understand how psilocybin affects the brain's response to stress and addiction, using a novel mouse model to simulate relapse triggered by stress cues. By examining the neural mechanisms involved, the research seeks to develop effective treatments that minimize the hallucinogenic side effects typically associated with psychedelics. If successful, this could lead to new therapeutic options for patients struggling with these challenging conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new treatment options for patients with opioid use disorder and PTSD, potentially reducing relapse rates and improving overall mental health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results using psychedelics for treating stress and addiction, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Francis, Megan Jane — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Francis, Megan Jane
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.