Monash University Begins Trial of Psilocybin Therapy for Long-Term Concussion Effects

A clinical trial at Monash University will examine whether psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy can reduce long-term symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury. The study follows a pre-clinical trial in which trauma-affected rats given one dose of the compound showed brain and behavioral recovery.

The university received approval and a $1.5 million federal grant to conduct the research. It is seeking about 60 adults who have experienced post-concussion symptoms for six months or longer to join a randomized double-blind trial.

Approved participants will complete a six-week program that includes one dose of psilocybin, followed by therapy sessions and self-guided exercises. Doses will be either 5 mg or 25 mg to help control for placebo effects. Dr Paul Liknaitzky, who heads Monash University’s Clinical Psychedelic Lab, said the compound has shown effects on psychiatric conditions and brain plasticity in other studies.

He noted the research remains early and cautioned against over-confidence in results.

One former athlete who sustained a career-ending head injury four years ago described ongoing migraines, insomnia, and memory loss. The individual has tried various treatments, including acupuncture and craniosacral therapy, and expressed interest in joining the trial to seek relief and contribute to future care options.

Hospital data from 2021-22 indicate someone in Australia is hospitalized for concussion roughly every 18 minutes, with up to half of cases developing persistent symptoms. No clinically proven treatments currently exist for these long-term effects. Neurologist Professor Terence O’Brien, the trial’s lead researcher, said rigorous double-blind studies and regulatory approvals are needed before any treatment can be considered reliable.