Psilocybin for Depression Talk at OSU 11.6.2020: Alan K Davis PhD

The substantial negative public health impact of major depressive disorder (MDD) underscores the importance of more research into drugs with rapid and sustained antidepressant effects. Existing pharmacotherapies for depression have variable efficacy and unwanted adverse effects. Novel antidepressants with rapid and sustained effects on mood and cognition could represent a breakthrough in treatment of depression and may potentially improve or save lives. The primary objective of this talk is to show the short- and long-term results from a recent randomized clinical trial of psilocybin-assisted therapy in patients with MDD. Additional presentation component include data regarding the psychological and biological mechanisms of action, and a case report of one study volunteer highlighting the subjective effects of treatment.