Historic clinical trial tests at-home micro-dose psilocybin to treat anxiety in Canada

Kingston Health Sciences Centre Research Institute (KHSC-RI) has launched the first-ever Health Canada-approved clinical trial studying at-home micro-dose use of psilocybin to treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

The Phase 2a study will recruit 60 adults with GAD to test whether daily, non-hallucinogenic doses of psilocybin can safely and effectively ease anxiety symptoms. Participants will take the treatment at home for four weeks, followed by an extension or placebo.

“This represents a major shift — a new way of targeting anxiety without sedation or emotional numbing,” said Dr. Claudio Soares, principal investigator at KHSC-RI.

GAD affects more than 1.6 million Canadians, and many patients face limited treatment options.

Supported by Southeastern Ontario Academic Medical Organization and Diamond Therapeutics, the trial marks a milestone in mental health research.

People living with GAD who want to learn more or participate can contact the research team by email.

Story by Alyssa Brush

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