Wisconsin scientists lead clinical trials of psychedelic treatments, focusing on psilocybin and MDMA-assisted therapy for depression and PTSD

Psychedelic research in Wisconsin is advancing through clinical trials aimed at treating mental health conditions, with psilocybin and MDMA-assisted therapy highlighted as leading candidates. The story follows Becca Kacanda, who joined a University of Wisconsin-Madison trial testing MDMA paired with therapy for PTSD, and credits the treatment with a lasting reduction in her symptoms. It also explains how FDA regulators rejected MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD in late 2024, sending the therapy back for additional data on safety, side effects, and trial blinding. UW-Madison researchers describe trial design and screening, including why some people are excluded (such as for certain psychotic disorders or high blood pressure) and how dosing sessions are facilitated in a structured environment with follow-up therapy. The article also profiles the Usona Institute in Wisconsin, which produces psilocybin pills and runs a national Phase 3-style trial for major depressive disorder, positioning psilocybin as a possible next therapy for federal approval and greater clinical access.