Scientists in the Czech Republic have begun recruiting volunteers for a clinical trial examining whether psilocybin therapy could help treat depression in people living with multiple sclerosis.

The research is part of the international PsyPal study, which explores the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for patients dealing with severe or long-term illnesses. Researchers from the National Institute of Mental Health (NUDZ) near Prague are leading the Czech part of the project.

Multiple sclerosis affects an estimated 2.9 million people worldwide, with more than 20,000 patients in the Czech Republic. The chronic disease damages nerves in the brain and spinal cord, disrupting communication within the nervous system. While doctors still do not know its exact cause, genetic factors and environmental risks are believed to play a role.

For many patients, the illness also brings psychological challenges. Depression and anxiety are common, especially in people with progressive neurological diseases.

The PsyPal trial focuses on whether psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, could ease depressive symptoms linked to multiple sclerosis. Previous studies have suggested the substance may help reduce psychological distress in patients with serious illnesses.

Researchers at NUDZ have been studying psychedelics for nearly two decades. According to Páleníček, the institute has already conducted clinical research involving patients with depression and people receiving palliative care.

The therapy takes place under clinical supervision and includes several stages. Participants first attend preparatory meetings with two trained therapists, who explain the process and discuss expectations. The treatment phase then includes two sessions during which patients receive either a low or higher dose of psilocybin in a controlled setting.

After each session, participants discuss their experiences with therapists as part of the integration phase of the therapy.

The study is open to adult patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis who also show symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness, anxiety or feelings of hopelessness. Volunteers must not have used psychedelic substances during the previous six months.

People interested in joining the trial can register through the research team at NUDZ via [email protected], where further details about participation are available.

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