Investigating whether psilocybin can improve memory in persons with mild cognitive impairment

Full study title: Does psilocybin change synaptic vesicular density in the brains of patients with mild cognitive impairment

 

What is the study about?

This study will explore whether a psychedelic called psilocybin may help improve memory by increasing connections in the brain. In the study, participants will be randomly assigned to receive either psilocybin or a placebo. There will also be brain scans and cognitive tests.

 

Eligibility – Who can participate?

Participants must:

• Be 60-75 years of age
• Have a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment, or have subjective memory decline or concerns about memory changes
• Have no past psychedelic use
• Not be taking medications for dementia or depression

 

Time requirement

The study will consist of 9 visits across 12 weeks, for a total of about 41 hours.

• Visit 1: Screening (about 2-3 hours)
• Visit 2: Neuropsychological testing (about 2-3 hours)
• Visit 3: MRI Scan (about 1 hour)
• Visits 4 and 7: PET Scans (about 2-3 hours/visit)
• Visit 5 and 6: Psilocybin or placebo treatment (about 7 hours/visit)
• Visit 8 and 9: Follow-up (about 3-4 hours)

 

TDRA study investigators

Dr. Philip Gerretsen

 

More information

https://www.camh.ca/en/science-and-research/research-connect/investigating-the-effect-of-psilocybin-on-the-brain-activity-of-individuals-reb-101-2021

TDRA Site:

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH),

Address: 1001 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4

Age Group:

60 - 64, 65 - 69, 70 - 75

Target Population:

Mild cognitive impairment, Subjective cognitive decline