VA Initiates Psilocybin Clinical Trial for Veterans with Treatment-Resistant Depression and PTSD
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has launched a multi-site clinical trial, named 'Psilocybin Intervention for Veterans Overcoming Treatment-Resistant Depression' (PIVOT), to assess the safety and effectiveness of psilocybin for veterans suffering from treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, including those with co-occurring post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This randomized, double-blind controlled study will compare outcomes across various dosage levels. Participants will undergo structured psychological preparation, guided administration sessions in controlled healthcare environments, and post-session integration therapy led by trained clinical facilitators. Researchers will monitor patient-reported depression scores, adverse effect tolerability, and changes in overall mental health over several months. The trial is being conducted at five VA medical facilities: Birmingham VA Health Care System (Alabama), Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center (Alabama), VA Portland Health Care System (Oregon), C... 
