Researchers at the University Center for Psychiatry of the UMCG are positive about the results of the research into the use of psilocybin, the active ingredient in ‘magic mushrooms’, in the treatment of patients with persistent depression. The UMCG will therefore try the treatment on a larger group of patients from next year.
Five white tablets
Before participating, the patients had to have tried at least two antidepressants, without sufficient effect on the depressive symptoms. In the weeks prior to the psilocybin intake, their medication was completely weaned and the participants were prepared for the treatment. The 24 patients then received their treatment: five white tablets, containing one of the three doses studied. The lowest dose (1 mg) was the control or placebo group. The participants spent the rest of the day in a homely furnished room in the hospital, assisted by two trained therapists. Most of the time the patients lay on a bed, listening to music.
In addition to the 24 patients in the UMCG, another 209 patients took part in the study at other hospitals. According to the researchers, 25 mg of psilocybin had a greater positive effect on the patients’ depression than participants in the 10 mg and 1 mg groups. Three weeks after treatment, nearly 30 percent of the participants on the highest dose were in remission, or almost completely relieved of their symptoms.
But that didn’t work for everyone. The treatment also caused side effects such as headache, nausea and dizziness. Also, in the first three weeks after treatment, between 7 and 9 percent of the participants (outside the placebo group) experienced more complaints, including suicidal thoughts or self-harming behaviour.
Research will continue next June
Despite the side effects and a number of negative outcomes, the UMCG researchers are generally positive about the outcomes. The UCP will therefore participate in a more extensive study, in which more people will be treated. This research focuses less on the correct dosage and more on the effect of the treatment with the ‘mushrooms’. The researchers also want clarity about the course of the treatment over a longer period of time.
The UMCG expects the new study to start in June next year.