Kingston Hospital Launches First Clinical Trial on Psilocybin Microdosing

Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) has received approval from Health Canada to conduct pioneering clinical trials focused on the microdosing of psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms. This marks the first instance in Canada where medical research will examine the daily, at-home use of psilocybin microdoses, targeting the management of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

The study will assess the effects of microdoses ranging from 2 to 3 milligrams on daily anxiety levels experienced by individuals diagnosed with GAD. Dr. Claudio Soares, the lead investigator, indicates that participants will take the microdose similarly to conventional antidepressants or over-the-counter medications.

“You have between 40 to 60% of patients responding to antidepressants,” Dr. Soares explained. “Not everybody can respond and not everybody can tolerate the side effects.” He emphasized the necessity for alternative treatment options, particularly for those who struggle with the current therapies available.

Initial data from related psilocybin research suggests rapid efficacy with minimal side effects. Dr. Soares noted, “The few subjects that we have that completed this study show some incredible responses within the first week of treatment, which is much faster than you see with antidepressants.” He expressed optimism that the upcoming trial could validate these findings on a larger scale.

The dosage utilized in this trial is not intended to induce hallucinations, as is often seen with macrodosing, which is typically employed in psychotherapy studies. Participants will begin the trial by taking their first microdose at KHSC, followed by a two-hour observation period. They will then take home a week’s supply of doses, with weekly reporting and evaluations over four weeks. Following this period, some participants will be transitioned to a placebo while others will continue receiving psilocybin.

The research team is actively recruiting adults aged 18 to 60 who have been diagnosed with GAD but are otherwise healthy. Dr. Soares mentioned that they are particularly interested in individuals with no prior exposure to psychedelics, whether recreationally or medically.

As societal stigma surrounding psychedelics gradually diminishes, Dr. Soares acknowledged the challenges in recruiting individuals without prior experience. He noted, “You have people that might have that stigma or reluctance to try psilocybin. But the fact that it’s a microdosing and doesn’t have the trip or the high, for a lot of those folks, is a plus.”

Despite the easing of stigma, he pointed out that the legalization of substances like cannabis has complicated the landscape for medical research.

Individuals interested in participating in the study or seeking more information can contact the research team at [email protected]. This innovative trial at KHSC represents a significant step forward in exploring the therapeutic potential of psilocybin microdosing, potentially opening new avenues for anxiety treatment.