USF Health’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences is conducting a series of clinical trials investigating the use of psychedelic medications to treat mental health.
Researchers are examining how psilocybin and similar compounds target serotonin receptors in the brain and help form new neural pathways. The studies follow participants over extended periods to track both therapeutic effects and potential side effects. Scientists combine medication with therapeutic guidance during dosing sessions and collect comprehensive data through regular monitoring, physical examinations, laboratory tests and psychiatric evaluations to build the evidence base needed for potential FDA approval.
“What I'm hoping is that this research leads to another way that we can treat people who have significant psychiatric conditions,” said Dr. Ryan Wagoner, chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences.
For more information about the studies, visit health.usf.edu/medicine/psychiatry/clinicaltrials.