Pilot Results for Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy for Cocaine Use Disorder—A Critical Appraisal - Report - MDSpire

Pilot Results for Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy for Cocaine Use Disorder—A Critical Appraisal

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  • Erin E. Bonar

  • May 7, 2026

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Clinical Report: Evaluation of Initial Findings from Psilocybin-Enhanced Psychotherapy

Overview

Revise to specify improvements in abstinence and relapse rates, and explicitly mention study limitations.

Background

Cocaine use disorder (CUD) currently lacks FDA-approved pharmacotherapy, making effective treatment options critical. The opioid crisis has shifted focus towards stimulant use, with cocaine-involved deaths remaining a significant public health concern. Recent guidelines emphasize psychosocial interventions, particularly contingency management, as the foundation of treatment for stimulant use disorders.

Data Highlights

Replace placeholder with a summary of key findings or data points from the source.

Key Findings

  • Psilocybin-assisted therapy improved cocaine-related outcomes over 180 days.
  • The study involved 40 adults, with results indicating higher abstinence rates.
  • Secondary substance use outcomes were not reported, limiting the scope of findings.
  • Fidelity monitoring in psychotherapy was lacking, raising concerns about treatment standardization.
  • Contingency management remains the most effective treatment for stimulant use disorders.
  • Psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I substance, complicating its clinical application.

Clinical Implications

Highlight the need for standardized treatment protocols and the implications of psilocybin's Schedule I classification.

Conclusion

The pilot study on psilocybin-assisted therapy presents promising initial findings for treating cocaine use disorder, but further research is essential to establish efficacy and safety. The current treatment landscape underscores the need for effective interventions amidst rising stimulant use.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Hendricks et al., JAMA Network Open, 2026 -- Evaluation of Initial Findings from Psilocybin-Enhanced Psychotherapy for Cocaine Use Disorder
  2. conexiant — Psilocybin for Cocaine Use: Signal or Noise?
  3. conexiant — Psilocybin Trial in Treatment-Resistant Depression Shows Mixed Results
  4. the asco post — Psilocybin-Based Therapy May Address Mental Health Issues in Patients With Cancer, Addiction
  5. Frontiers in Psychiatry — Efficacy of Health Professional-Led Psychological Interventions for Adult Cannabis Use in Community Environments: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
  6. Psilocybin for Cocaine Use: Signal or Noise?
  7. Psilocybin Trial in Treatment-Resistant Depression Shows Mixed Results
  8. Psilocybin-Based Therapy May Address Mental Health Issues in Patients With Cancer, Addiction
  9. ASAM/AAAP Stimulant Use Disorder Guidelines
  10. Psilocybin in the Treatment of Cocaine Use Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial | Psychiatry and Behavioral Health | JAMA Network Open | JAMA Network
  11. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Investigating the Efficacy of Various Psychedelic Drugs for the Treatment of Substance Use Disorder

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