Understanding how psilocybin helps treat alcohol use disorder.
Official title: Neural mechanisms of psilocybin-assisted treatment for alcohol use disorder.
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10826792 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how psilocybin, a natural substance found in certain mushrooms, might help people who are trying to overcome alcohol addiction by changing their drinking habits and cravings, while also learning more about how it affects the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $708,511 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AA031417-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10826792 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who are seeking treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those who are not open to psychedelic treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, on individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Through a double-blind randomized controlled trial, participants will receive psilocybin treatment to assess its impact on drinking behavior, cravings, and emotional responses. The study aims to explore the neural mechanisms involved in these changes using advanced imaging techniques. By understanding how psilocybin influences brain activity, the research seeks to improve treatment outcomes for those struggling with alcohol addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective treatment option for individuals with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with psilocybin in treating various mental health conditions, indicating potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bogenschutz, Michael Parks — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Bogenschutz, Michael Parks
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Functional Connectivity-Guided TMS for Alcohol Use Disorder
A new approach uses targeted brain stimulation to help people with alcohol use disorder stay abstinent longer by focusing treatment on specific brain circuits.
-
Alcohol Use Disorder and Suicidal Behavior: Finding Why They Occur Together
A study using Swedish population data to understand why alcohol use disorder relates to suicidal thoughts and acts, with the goal of improving risk prediction and prevention.
-
Non-hallucinogenic psilocybin derivative for alcohol use disorder
A new, safer psilocybin-like compound is being studied to help people with alcohol use disorder.
-
Identifying brain proteins linked to PTSD and alcohol use disorder
Researchers are studying brain proteins that may contribute to PTSD and alcohol use disorder in US veterans to find new ways to help people who struggle with both conditions.
-
Mu and Kappa Opioid Balance in Alcohol Use Disorder
A study using brain imaging to understand how the brain’s opioid system changes during early sobriety in adults with alcohol use disorder.
-
Telehealth support to prevent suicide in people with alcohol use disorder in Tanzania
A telehealth counseling program is being adapted to help reduce suicide risk for people with alcohol use disorder in emergency departments in Tanzania.
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.