VA launches major trial of psilocybin for PTSD and depression in veterans

Published Aug 6, 07:22 PM UTC

The Department of Veterans Affairs is launching the PIVOT trial, a major study on the safety and effectiveness of psilocybin (the psychoactive ingredient in 'magic mushrooms') for treating treatment-resistant major depressive disorder and PTSD in veterans. The double-blind, randomized trial will include at least 240 veterans across five VA medical centers, with participants receiving one or two doses of psilocybin or a placebo along with therapeutic support, and follow-up evaluations through June 2031. The study follows a small Ohio State University trial where 75% of veteran participants no longer met PTSD criteria after psilocybin treatment. The initiative is backed by a Trump executive order directing accelerated FDA review of psychedelic therapies, and an HHS-VA agreement to increase coordination on psychedelic research. The VA is currently involved in 20 clinical trials on psychedelic treatments, including MDMA and LSD.