Using microdoses of psychedelics to help reduce depression in people with opioid use disorder
Official title: Microdosing Implant to Mitigate Depression Associated with Opioid Use Disorder
Funded at Interval Therapeutics LLC · NIH-11067460 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring whether taking tiny amounts of substances like LSD and psilocybin can help lift the mood and reduce cravings for opioids in people dealing with opioid use disorder and depression, offering a new way to support their recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Interval Therapeutics LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oxford, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $306,556 |
| NIH project number | 1R41EB036916-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11067460 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who also experience symptoms of depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have opioid use disorder or those without depressive symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of microdosing with 5HT2A agonists, such as LSD and psilocybin, to alleviate depression in individuals suffering from opioid use disorder (OUD). The approach involves administering sub-perceptual doses of these substances every few days, which may help improve mood and reduce cravings for opioids. The study aims to provide a long-term therapeutic strategy to address the co-occurring mental health issues that many individuals with OUD face, particularly during withdrawal. Participants will be monitored closely to ensure safety and support throughout the treatment process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for individuals with opioid use disorder, potentially reducing depression and the risk of relapse.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with the use of psychedelics for treating depression, suggesting that this approach may be effective, although the specific microdosing method is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
Interval Therapeutics LLC
Oxford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Werfel, Thomas a — Interval Therapeutics LLC
- Study coordinator: Werfel, Thomas a
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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.