Long-Term Remission of Depression Observed Five Years After Psilocybin Therapy

A recent study has demonstrated that approximately two-thirds of participants who received psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD) remained in complete remission five years after treatment. This extensive follow-up, published in the Journal of Psychedelic Studies, provides compelling evidence of the enduring effects of psilocybin in alleviating depression.

The original trial, conducted in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University and published in 2021, involved patients who received two doses of psilocybin combined with about 13 hours of psychotherapy. Results from the initial study showed significant reductions in depression symptoms, with half of the participants achieving remission within one year. The five-year follow-up further revealed that 67% of those who participated were still in remission, with many reporting sustained improvements in overall well-being.

Lead researcher Alan Davis, an associate professor at The Ohio State University, highlighted that not only did remission rates increase slightly over time, but other measures such as anxiety levels and global functioning also showed continued improvement. Participants generally regarded their treatment as safe and meaningful, with many experiencing a lasting positive impact on their lives.

The follow-up included online questionnaires, clinical interviews, and assessments of depression, anxiety, and functional impairment. While only 18 of the original 24 participants completed the follow-up, researchers conservatively estimated that those who did not participate in the follow-up had relapsed to baseline levels of depression. Importantly, only three of the participants reported no additional treatment since the trial, indicating that the sustained remission cannot be solely attributed to the initial intervention.

Many participants described perceiving depression as more manageable and situational post-treatment. They reported increased capacity for positive emotions and enthusiasm, even if some experienced recurrence of symptoms. The study also underscored the importance of a strong therapist-participant relationship, as some individuals who attempted self-guided psychedelic use without support found less benefit.

Overall, the findings suggest promising long-term benefits of psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression, although the small sample size warrants further research. The study emphasizes that the positive effects on depression and related symptoms could be sustained for years, offering hope for more durable treatment options in mental health care.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-depression-remission-years-psilocybin-trial.html