Multi-site psilocybin trial for treatment-resistant depression in Veterans
Official title: A Multi-site Randomized Controlled Trial of Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in Veterans
Funded at Birmingham VA Medical Center · NIH-11298677 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A large, multi-site study is testing whether psilocybin can help Veterans with hard-to-treat depression, with or without PTSD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Birmingham VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| NIH project number | 1I01RD001520-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11298677 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Veterans with treatment-resistant depression, with or without concurrent PTSD, who are eligible and consent to participate.
✕Less likely to help
Some participants may not experience benefit or may experience adverse effects from psilocybin.
What this research studies
This study enrolls U.S. military Veterans with treatment-resistant depression and randomizes them to receive psilocybin or a low-dose control, alongside preparation and integration support. It is designed as a double-blind, randomized trial across multiple centers to assess safety and efficacy. Participants will have two dosing sessions, with psychological support before, during, and after each session to help them process the experience. The trial will help determine if psilocybin could become a new option for Veterans struggling with TRD and potentially PTSD comorbidity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the trial could lead to a new medical option for Veterans with TRD that may improve mood, functioning, and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous civilian studies showed promise, but results in Veterans and those with PTSD are still being established.
Where this research is happening
-
Birmingham VA Medical Center
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davis, Lori L. — Birmingham VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Davis, Lori L.
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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.