Health

Psychedelic Therapy Gains FDA Approval for Treatment-Resistant Depression

MDMA-assisted therapy received FDA approval for PTSD, while psilocybin trials show remarkable results for depression. The psychedelic renaissance is bringing once-stigmatized substances into mainstream medicine.

Clinical trials demonstrate that 67% of PTSD patients no longer meet diagnostic criteria after MDMA therapy, compared to 32% with placebo. Psilocybin shows similar efficacy for treatment-resistant depression.

"These are not recreational drugs—they are powerful psychiatric medicines when used in proper therapeutic settings," emphasized psychiatrist Dr. Rachel Yehuda, who led MDMA-PTSD trials.

Treatment protocols are rigorous. Patients undergo preparation sessions, supervised dosing experiences lasting 6-8 hours, and integration therapy afterward. The therapeutic relationship and setting are considered crucial to outcomes.

Access will be limited initially. Therapists require specialized training, and treatment centers must meet strict safety standards. Insurance coverage remains uncertain, with treatments costing $10,000-15,000 per course.