Using psilocybin to improve mood and pain in patients with chronic back pain and depression
Official title: Psilocybin and Affective Function in Chronic Lower Back Pain and Depression
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11077883 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how psilocybin, a natural substance found in some mushrooms, might help people with chronic low back pain and depression feel better by improving their mood and reducing pain, and it's designed for those who haven't found relief with other treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | August 25, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $511,903 |
| NIH project number | 5R33AT012317-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077883 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic low back pain along with depressive symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have chronic low back pain or depression may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, on patients suffering from chronic low back pain and depression. The study aims to understand how psilocybin can enhance emotional well-being and reduce pain perception by targeting specific brain mechanisms. Participants will receive psilocybin in a controlled setting, and their responses will be monitored to assess improvements in mood and pain management. This approach seeks to provide a new treatment avenue for individuals who have limited options for managing their symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could offer a novel, effective treatment for patients struggling with both chronic pain and depression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using psilocybin for improving mood and pain management in other patient populations, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yaden, David Bryce — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Yaden, David Bryce
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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.