VA Launches Psilocybin Trial For Veterans With Treatment-Resistant Depression

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is launching a clinical trial of psilocybin-assisted treatment for veterans with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, including participants who also have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The Psilocybin Intervention for Veterans Overcoming Treatment-Resistant Depression (PIVOT) trial plans to enroll approximately 240 veterans across five VA medical centers and compare two doses of psilocybin.

The study is intended for veterans whose depression has not adequately improved after treatment with at least two antidepressant medications taken for at least eight weeks. Participants will undergo two psilocybin dosing sessions, with support from trained . . .