Psychedelics
Cybin Reports 79% Remission in MDD with CYB003, Prepares for Phase 3 Trials
LOS ANGELES- Cybin Inc., has announced promising results from its Phase 2 study of CYB003, a proprietary deuterated psilocybin analog developed for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). The study demonstrated that 79% of patients achieved remission from depression symptoms six weeks after receiving two 12mg doses of CYB003. The trial also reported rapid and significant improvements in depression symptoms following a single dose of CYB003. Patients experienced an average reduction of 13.75 points on the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) at the three-week mark, a statistically significant difference from the placebo group. The administration of a second dose at six weeks resulted in an additional 5.8-point improvement on ...
Psilocybin Shows Potential for OCD and Tourette’s Treatment, Study Finds
LOS ANGELES- A new study published in Molecular Psychiatry has identified psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, as a promising candidate for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and Tourette's syndrome. Conducted by researchers at the Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, the study highlights the long-lasting therapeutic effects of psilocybin in preclinical trials using animal models. Led by Professor Bernard Lerer, the research focused on genetically modified mice that exhibit behaviors akin to OCD-like symptoms—such as excessive grooming—and tics, which are characteristic of Tourette's syndrome. The study evaluated the impact of a single dose of psilocybin, a psychedelic mushroom extract, or a placebo, with researchers observing the results over a three-week period. The ...
Massachusetts Voters Reject Medical Use of Psychedelics in Close Ballot Measure
LOS ANGELES- Massachusetts voters have rejected a proposed measure to legalize the medical use of certain psychedelics, with 57% voting against and 43% in favor. The initiative sought to permit the use of psilocybin, psilocin, dimethyltryptamine (DMT), ibogaine, and mescaline for therapeutic treatment in patients aged 21 and older. It would have allowed patients to grow these substances at home and undergo treatment at licensed centers under the guidance of certified facilitators. The measure's supporters argued that psychedelic therapies could significantly benefit patients struggling with mental health issues such as depression, PTSD, and cancer-related anxiety. They also suggested the initiative could create a pathway to tax revenue from a regulated ...
Cybin Secures Patent for CYB005 Program in Push for New CNS Disorder Treatments
LOS ANGELES- Cybin Inc., a neuropsychiatric biopharmaceutical company, announced that it has secured a U.S. patent (No. 12,122,741) covering the composition of matter for key molecules in its CYB005 program. This patent represents a strategic step for Cybin in developing non-hallucinogenic treatment options targeting central nervous system (CNS) disorders. The company’s CYB005 compounds, derived from the phenethylamine class, are being investigated for their ability to address mental health conditions by engaging serotonin 5-HT1A and 5-HT2C receptors—well-known targets in CNS therapeutic research. In recent years, interest in non-psychedelic treatments within the psychedelics field has risen, as companies seek compounds that can yield therapeutic benefits without hallucinogenic effects. Doug Drysdale, Cybin’s CEO, ...
Psyence Biomed Progresses in Psilocybin Development for Alcohol Use Disorder
LOS ANGELES- Psyence Biomed, a biopharmaceutical company focused on psychedelic therapeutics, has provided an update on its development of high-purity psilocybin in collaboration with PsyLabs. The company is working towards producing Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) certified under the European Union’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This certification is critical for advancing psilocybin as a treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). The progress update highlights PsyLabs' commitment to supplying high-purity, pharmaceutical-grade psilocybin for future clinical trials. Psyence Biomed’s partnership with PsyLabs also includes a pending acquisition of an equity stake, which will further integrate the two companies. This collaboration is expected to streamline the production and distribution of nature-derived psilocybin, facilitating its ...
Psychedelics Market Sees Growth Amid Regulatory and Investment Shifts
LOS ANGELES- The psychedelics market in the U.S. is witnessing rapid expansion, driven by both regulatory advancements and increasing investor interest. The sector, valued at approximately $603.1 million in 2024, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7%, with expectations of reaching $1.18 billion by 2034. This growth stems largely from the rising interest in psychedelics as treatments for mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), treatment-resistant depression, and addiction. Key regulatory developments have bolstered the industry. In 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted breakthrough therapy designations for psilocybin and MDMA, signaling accelerated development and testing of these drugs for ...
Massachusetts Voters Divided Over Psychedelics Legalization Ahead of 2024 Ballot
LOS ANGELES- Massachusetts voters are set to decide on Question 4 in the upcoming November 5 ballot, which proposes the legalization and regulation of certain psychedelic substances for therapeutic and personal use. If approved, Massachusetts would join Oregon and Colorado as states that have enacted similar measures. Recent polling indicates a closely contested issue: 42% of voters support the initiative, while 44% oppose it. The proposed law would permit adults aged 21 and over to possess, cultivate, and use specific natural psychedelics, including psilocybin, psilocyn, mescaline, DMT, and ibogaine, under regulated conditions. Advocates highlight potential mental health benefits, citing research that suggests these substances can aid in treating conditions like ...
New Jersey Senate Committee Advances Therapeutic Psilocybin Bill
LOS ANGELES- The New Jersey Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee has approved Senate Bill 2283, advancing legislation to legalize the therapeutic use of psilocybin for medical purposes. The bill, sponsored by Senate President Nick Scutari (D), comes after months of deliberation and amendments that shifted the focus from adult recreational use to strictly medical applications. The bill, if enacted, would allow individuals with qualifying medical conditions, as determined by a licensed health care professional, to use psilocybin under a regulated system. The New Jersey Department of Health would oversee the production and distribution process, granting licenses for five specific sectors: testing laboratories, manufacturers, facilitators, service centers, and psilocybin workers. The ...
Psyence Biomed Advances Clinical Trials in Psilocybin for Mental Health Treatments
LOS ANGELES- Psyence Biomedical Ltd. a life science biotechnology company focused on natural psychedelics for mental health, has issued updates on its progress in clinical research and corporate development. The company is leading efforts to develop natural psilocybin products for palliative care, with a focus on addressing psychological trauma and mental health challenges. Psyence is currently conducting a double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase IIb clinical trial in Australia, testing nature-derived psilocybin in three doses (25mg, 10mg, and 1mg) combined with psychotherapy. The trial aims to improve the quality of life for patients suffering from Adjustment Disorder, particularly those with life-limiting illnesses. The study’s primary endpoint is the change in the Hamilton Anxiety ...
Silo Pharma Advances Regulatory Path for PTSD Treatment SPC-15
LOS ANGELES- Silo Pharma, Inc. a developmental stage biopharmaceutical company, has submitted a proposal for FDA approval of its PTSD treatment, SPC-15, through the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway. This pathway is designed to shorten clinical timelines and reduce development costs. The company recently completed a pre-Investigational New Drug (pre-IND) meeting with the FDA, receiving feedback to support opening an IND for first-in-human trials of SPC-15, an intranasal treatment for PTSD and stress-induced anxiety. CEO Eric Weisblum stated that the company now has a clear path to clinical development, with plans to bring SPC-15 to market following FDA approval. Silo is currently conducting pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies as part of its ongoing ...
FDA Consideration of Psilocybin Therapy Could Impact Millions of Depression Patients
LOS ANGELES- Recent research suggests that the active ingredient in psychedelic mushrooms, psilocybin, may offer significant benefits for individuals struggling with depression, pending approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). With roughly one in 10 American adults experiencing depressive illness annually, the potential for psilocybin therapy to alleviate symptoms has garnered increasing attention. Psilocybin has shown promise in treating major depressive disorder, with studies suggesting that just two doses could provide relief for up to a year. Although the FDA has not yet approved psilocybin-assisted therapy, several breakthrough therapy designations have been granted for its use in treatment-resistant depression. This condition affects individuals who have not responded to ...
MindMed to Present at Key September Investor Conferences
LOS ANGELES- Mind Medicine (MindMed) Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel treatments for brain health disorders, announced its participation in three significant investor conferences in September 2024. MindMed’s management team will engage in discussions on the evolving role of psychedelics in psychiatry and brain health treatments. The company’s schedule includes: A panel discussion at the H.C. Wainwright Global Investment Conference on September 10. A fireside chat at Baird’s Global Healthcare Conference on September 11. A second fireside chat at the Cantor Global Healthcare Conference on September 17. All events will take place in New York, and audio webcasts of the presentations will be accessible through MindMed’s Investor ...
Awakn Life Sciences Advances Phase 3 Trial for Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment
LOS ANGELES- Awakn Life Sciences Corp. announced the screening of its first patient for the Phase 3 trial of AWKN-001, a new treatment targeting severe Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). The trial, known as MORE-KARE, represents a significant milestone in assessing the effectiveness of AWKN-001. AWKN-001 combines intravenous ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor modulator, with structured psycho-social support. The treatment aims to reduce heavy drinking days and improve overall outcomes for individuals with severe AUD. The MORE-KARE study, co-funded by the UK’s Medical Research Council (MRC), the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), and Awakn Life Sciences, will be conducted at eight NHS sites across the UK. The trial will ...
MindMed Launches $75 Million Public Offering to Fund Psychedelic Research
LOS ANGELES- Mind Medicine (MindMed) Inc. (NASDAQ: MNMD) announced a public offering aimed at raising $75 million through the sale of approximately 9.2 million shares at $7 each. The company is also offering around 1.4 million shares at a slightly discounted price of $6.99 to select investors. The offering is expected to close on August 12, with Leerink Partners and Evercore ISI acting as joint bookrunning managers. Proceeds from the offering will be used to support research and development for MindMed’s psychedelic treatments, particularly those in clinical trials targeting anxiety disorders. During its first-quarter earnings call in May, the company reported a cash reserve of $252.3 million, expected to sustain ...
MindMed Launches $75 Million Public Offering to Fund Psychedelic Research
LOS ANGELES- Mind Medicine (MindMed) Inc. announced a public offering aimed at raising $75 million through the sale of approximately 9.2 million shares at $7 each. The company is also offering around 1.4 million shares at a slightly discounted price of $6.99 to select investors. The offering is expected to close on August 12, with Leerink Partners and Evercore ISI acting as joint bookrunning managers. Proceeds from the offering will be used to support research and development for MindMed’s psychedelic treatments, particularly those in clinical trials targeting anxiety disorders. During its first-quarter earnings call in May, the company reported a cash reserve of $252.3 million, expected to sustain operations until ...
Optimi Health and Psyence Biomedical Sign LOI for Psilocybin Supply Agreement
LOS ANGELES- Optimi Health, a GMP-approved and Health Canada-licensed psychedelics pharmaceutical manufacturer, has entered into a non-binding Letter of Intent (LOI) with Psyence Biomedical Ltd. . This partnership positions Optimi as the exclusive supplier of nature-derived (non-synthetic) psilocybin extract for Psyence's global drug development and commercialization efforts, particularly within the FDA-approved palliative care context. Under the terms of the LOI, Optimi will provide Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Control (CMC) support for Psyence’s regulatory submissions and any future Investigational New Drug (IND) applications. Psyence will secure exclusive rights to Optimi’s drug candidate for treatment use in palliative care. Optimi CEO Bill Ciprick highlighted the partnership’s potential to advance psilocybin-based therapies, while Psyence ...
Silo Pharma Collaborates with WuXi AppTec for Preclinical MS Research
Silo Pharma Inc. a biopharmaceutical company, has entered into a collaboration with WuXi AppTec to conduct preclinical research on a novel peptide, SPU-16, aimed at treating multiple sclerosis (MS). This partnership focuses on assessing the tissue specificity of SPU-16, which is designed to target inflamed tissues in the central nervous system, particularly within the spinal cord. The study, managed by WuXi AppTec, will utilize an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model, a standard protocol in MS research, to evaluate the peptide's effectiveness in targeting inflammation. Silo Pharma’s CEO, Eric Weisblum, expressed optimism about SPU-16’s potential to enhance current and future MS therapies while reducing drug toxicity. Silo Pharma is also advancing ...
MindBio Reports Sustained Antidepressant Effects from Microdosing LSD in Phase 2A Depression Trials
LOS ANGELES- MindBio Therapeutics Corp. a Vancouver-based biopharmaceutical company, has announced promising durability data from its Phase 2A clinical trials testing MB22001, a proprietary microdosed LSD treatment for depression. The study, which involved self-administered, take-home microdoses, showed that patients experienced a 62.8% reduction in depressive symptoms three months after completing an 8-week course. The Phase 2A trial demonstrated a strong safety, adherence, and tolerance profile, aligning with results from earlier Phase 1 trials. The findings support MindBio’s strategy of using low-dose, non-hallucinogenic psychedelic therapies for community-based treatment, distinguishing it from the more common high-dose clinic-based therapies in the psychedelic sector. MindBio is currently the only organization conducting multiple Phase 2B ...
Study Highlights Psilocybin’s Significant Impact on Brain Function and Potential Therapeutic Uses
LOS ANGELES- A recent small randomized controlled trial has revealed that a single high dose of psilocybin induces significant and persistent changes in brain functional networks in healthy adults. The findings, published in Nature, provide new insights into the effects of psychedelics on brain activity and their therapeutic potential. The study found that psilocybin's impact on the brain's functional networks was more than three times larger than that of the control drug, methylphenidate. Joshua S. Siegel, MD, PhD, an instructor in psychiatry at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri, noted that psilocybin "is erasing boundaries between brain networks." Using precision functional MRI (fMRI) mapping, the researchers tracked ...
Numinus Wellness: Financial Challenges and Strategic Growth in Mental Health Care
LOS ANGELES- Numinus Wellness is at the forefront of transforming mental health care, focusing on innovative treatments, strategic mergers, and operational refinements. This article delves into the market trends, financial performance, and strategic initiatives shaping the future of Numinus Wellness and the broader mental health landscape. Financial Performance: A Mixed Bag of Results Numinus Wellness recently reported its Q3 Fiscal 2024 financial outcomes, revealing challenges and opportunities. Revenue figures dropped slightly to $4.3 million, a 1.9% decrease from the previous quarter. Similarly, gross profits fell by 9.8%, reaching $1.0 million. Despite these declines, Numinus maintains a strong cash position of $3.7 million as of May 31, 2024, demonstrating prudent fiscal ...
Silo Pharma Secures Exclusive License for PTSD Treatment Development
LOS ANGELES- Silo Pharma, Inc. a developmental stage biopharmaceutical company, has announced an exclusive global license agreement with Columbia University to develop, manufacture, and commercialize its lead drug candidate, SPC-15. This intranasal treatment targets stress-induced affective disorders and PTSD. Exclusive License for SPC-15 Development Silo Pharma has entered into an exclusive, global license agreement with Columbia University to further develop SPC-15, a novel treatment for PTSD and anxiety. This agreement allows Silo to advance its efforts in creating effective treatments for these disorders. Regulatory Progress and FDA Interaction Earlier this month, Silo submitted a pre-IND briefing package and meeting request for SPC-15 to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). ...
Clearmind Medicine Inc. Secures Patent Approval in Hong Kong for Binge Behavior Regulator
LOS ANGELES- Clearmind Medicine Inc., a clinical biotech company specializing in psychedelic-derived therapeutics, has announced a significant advancement in its MEAI-based binge behavior regulator program. The company received patent approval from the Hong Kong Patent Office for its innovative use of primary amine aminoindan compounds to regulate binge behavior. The patent covers the use of these compounds, including the company's flagship molecule, 5-methoxy-2-aminoindan (MEAI). This latest addition extends Clearmind's intellectual property portfolio, which now includes 28 granted patents across 18 patent families in key jurisdictions such as the US, Europe, China, India, and Hong Kong. MEAI is designed to reduce the desire to consume alcohol while providing a mild euphoric ...
Growing Interest in Microdosing Among Americans
LOS ANGELES- Americans are increasingly curious about microdosing, a practice involving minimal consumption of psychedelics or cannabis over extended periods, according to a study by the University of California San Diego published in JAMA Health Forum. The study reveals a 1250% increase in Google searches about microdosing from 2015 to 2023, with over three million searches in 2023. Kevin Yang, M.D., a psychiatry resident at UC San Diego School of Medicine, led the research. Yang's study highlights how legislative changes on substance use influence public behavior and interest. The study correlates the rising curiosity about microdosing with relaxed local, federal, and state laws on recreational cannabis and therapeutic psychedelic use. ...
Incannex Healthcare Receives FDA Approval for Phase 2 Clinical Trial of Psilocybin Therapy
LOS ANGELES- Incannex Healthcare Inc. a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company, has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to commence a Phase 2 clinical trial for its psilocybin pharmaceutical formulation, PSX-001, in combination with psychotherapy for patients with generalized anxiety disorder in the United States and the United Kingdom. The FDA completed its review of Incannex's Investigational New Drug (IND) application, submitted on June 26, 2024, within the designated 30-day period. The regulatory body has deemed the trial, named PsiGAD2, safe to proceed following an evaluation of the trial protocol, lead investigator, and a risk-benefit analysis of the trial and prospective drug product. The PsiGAD2 trial will enroll ...
Arizona Governor Signs Bill Allowing MDMA Therapy for First Responders with PTSD
LOS ANGELES- Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has signed a bill into law that enables firefighters and peace officers with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to receive workers' compensation coverage for MDMA therapy, contingent upon federal legalization. While Governor Hobbs vetoed a separate proposal to legalize psilocybin service centers earlier this week, she approved legislation authorizing the Industrial Commission of Arizona to provide compensation for a one-course treatment of MDMA for public safety officials with PTSD if the drug receives approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The bill's enactment follows a recent recommendation by an FDA advisory committee against approving a new drug application for MDMA-assisted therapy, drawing criticism from ...