Monash researchers launch new clinical trial testing psychedelic therapy for post-concussion symptoms
Monash University
Monash University researchers have just launched Australia’s first clinical trial to test whether the psychedelic drug psilocybin is an effective treatment for persisting post-concussion symptoms.
There are few effective therapies for the debilitating long-term effects of mild traumatic brain injury, more commonly known as concussion.
But researchers now think psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in some mushrooms, could be the answer.
Recent studies from Monash University indicate that a single macro-dose of the drug can reduce the symptoms that often show up after brain injury.
The project will leverage leading-edge capability and track record in neuro-imaging and biomarkers of psychedelics within the Monash Trauma Group, and clinical implementation and assessment within the Clinical Psychedelic Lab.
Lead researcher on the trial, Professor Terence O’Brien, Head of Monash University’s School of Translational Medicine, Program Director Alfred Brain, and Deputy Director of Research at Bayside Health Alfred, said the clinical trial is a huge step forward and will provide hope to many patients.
“Given the lack of effective treatment options for persisting and debilitating concussion symptoms, we are excited to be studying a promising new approach,” Professor O’Brien said.
“In addition to alleviating symptoms, research suggests it can also target the biological effects concussion has on the brain.”
Up to 50 per cent of people who sustain a concussion will experience persistent post-concussion symptoms.
These commonly include cognitive and emotional issues, plus other debilitating symptoms such as headache, dizziness, irritability and sleep disturbances.
The Monash-led trial, funded by a $1.5 million Medical Research Future Fund grant, will take place in Melbourne over three years, beginning in 2026.
It is Australia’s first randomised, double-blind, active placebo-controlled clinical trial investigating the efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy for persistent post-concussion symptoms in humans.
It will study the effect of the drug on people who have had persistent post-concussion symptoms for at least six months, regardless of the cause of the original concussion.
Professor Sandy Shultz, from the Monash Trauma Group in the School of Translational Medicine, said researchers expect psilocybin will reduce neuroinflammation and enhance the brain’s ability to form new neural connections.
“We will also be looking at blood and neuroimaging biomarkers in the brain so we can understand exactly what the drug is doing in the body and how it is helping reduce symptoms,” Professor Shultz said.
“These benefits could last for at least six months post-treatment, which would be a gamechanger, and we will test this in the trial.”
Dr Josh Allen, a Research Fellow in the Clinical Psychedelic Lab at Monash’s School of Clinical Sciences, said while many think this kind of trial isn’t for them, it’s worth reaching out if you suffer from persistent post-concussion symptoms.
“Participants are supported every step of the way,” he said.
“This includes preparation sessions before, guided care during the psychedelic experience, and integration therapy afterward.
“Our approach will promote safety and maximise benefits for all trial participants.”
Dr Paul Liknaitzky, Head of the Clinical Psychedelic Lab, said the research will address a major unmet need for people with persistent post-concussion symptoms.
“We’re testing a combined treatment approach that targets both the neurological and psychological drivers of patients’ symptoms and functionality,” Dr Liknaitzky said.
The project is a collaboration between the University’s Department of Neuroscience and Department of Psychiatry. Also part of the research team are Dr Georgia Symons, Dr Jennifer Makovec Knight, Dr Zhibin Chen, and Dr Andrew Gibbons, all from Monash University, as well as Professor Karen Caeyenberghs from Deakin University, Professor Joshua Byrnes from the University of Queensland, Professor Karen Barlow from University of Queensland, and Naomi Fuller from Connectivity Traumatic Brain Injury Australia.
Find out more and register interest to participate in the trial: https://redcap.helix.monash.edu/surveys/?s=CADPA3NKYPRXJD38
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