Psilocybin for Quitting Smoking
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests psilocybin, a compound from mushrooms, to help smokers quit. It targets smokers because past studies showed good results. Psilocybin affects brain receptors to improve mood and reduce cravings, potentially making it easier to stop smoking. Psilocybin has shown promise in previous studies for promoting long-term smoking abstinence when combined with therapy.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If you are currently taking antidepressants, antipsychotics, certain dietary supplements, or medications for smoking cessation, you will need to stop these before participating in the trial. For medications taken intermittently, you must wait until at least 5 half-lives of the medication have passed after the last dose before starting the trial.
Is psilocybin safe for humans?
Psilocybin has been studied for its safety in various conditions, including depression and substance use disorders, and is generally considered safe when used in controlled settings. However, it can cause hallucinations and other effects on the central nervous system, so it should be used under medical supervision to avoid potential risks.12345
How is the drug psilocybin unique for quitting smoking?
Psilocybin, found in 'magic mushrooms', is unique for quitting smoking because it works by affecting serotonin receptors in the brain, which can lead to changes in perception and mood. Unlike traditional smoking cessation aids, psilocybin is a hallucinogen that may help by altering the user's mindset and potentially reducing cravings.16789
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug psilocybin for quitting smoking?
Research shows that psilocybin, a compound found in certain mushrooms, has been trialed for various conditions like addiction, anxiety, and depression, suggesting potential benefits for quitting smoking. Additionally, psilocybin microdosing has been associated with mood and mental health improvements, which could support smoking cessation efforts.16101112
Who Is on the Research Team?
Matthew Johnson, Ph.D
Principal Investigator
Johns Hopkins University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 21 who smoke daily (at least 5 cigarettes/day) and have tried to quit multiple times without success. Participants must be in good health as confirmed by medical exams, not use other tobacco products or psychoactive drugs, including alcohol, before sessions. Pregnant or nursing women and those with certain mental health conditions or cardiovascular issues are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either psilocybin or niacin in two sessions, 1 week apart, with cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) administered to both groups.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for smoking cessation and cognitive control, with assessments at 12-month follow-up.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Niacin
- Psilocybin
Niacin is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Hyperlipidemia
- Pellagra
- Hyperlipidemia
- Pellagra
- Hyperlipidemia
- Pellagra
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Johns Hopkins University
Lead Sponsor
Sheppard Pratt Health System
Collaborator
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Collaborator
New York University
Collaborator
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Collaborator