At the University of New Mexico (UNM), researchers are looking into the use of psychedelics as a treatment for various mental health disorders, contributing to the knowledge acquired from previous studies that are re-examining substances like psilocybin, ketamine, and MDMA. This research comes at a time when traditional treatments for conditions such as depression and PTSD often fall short, leaving many individuals in need of alternative therapies that are safe and reliable. The main goals of the UNM studies are to explore how these substances can effectively alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders and provide a scientific basis for their controlled, monitored use in therapeutic settings.
The RECONNECT study for postpartum depression
One of the key studies at UNM is RECONNECT, a Phase 2 multi-center trial (a clinical study involving multiple locations, focusing on testing the effectiveness and safety of a treatment in a larger group of patients) that focuses on the potential of a novel compound, RE104, which is related to psilocybin. This study is specifically targeting postpartum depression, a condition that affects approximately 13% of new mothers. Postpartum depression can severely impact maternal-infant bonding, and current treatments are often inadequate. RE104 offers a promising alternative due to its ability to rapidly reverse depressive symptoms in a controlled setting. Participants in this double-blind, placebo-controlled study (where neither the researchers nor the patients will know who is receiving the drug vs a placebo) will receive a one-time injection of the short-acting drug, which has psychedelic effects that peaks around two and a half hours. This shorter duration makes it particularly appealing for patients who may benefit from a brief but intensive therapeutic experience.
The uAspire trial for major depressive disorder
Another significant study at UNM is the uAspire trial, a Phase 3 (even larger group of participants, often in the thousands) randomized, double-blind, multicenter project that is investigating the use of psilocybin for treating major depressive disorder (MDD). Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks or even months to take effect, psilocybin has shown potential for rapid relief of depressive symptoms. The study design ensures that all participants eventually receive the active drug, addressing the ethical concerns associated with placebo-controlled trials where participants might otherwise endure prolonged emotional pain. Over a 54-week period, participants will be randomized to receive different doses of psilocybin, with the option for re-dosing if initial treatments are not effective.
UNM’s push for psychedelic studies
UNM’s research is not limited to psilocybin. The university is also exploring the use of MDMA to help postpartum mothers with opioid use disorder overcome their addictions. This research is part of a broader effort to address the root causes of substance use disorders, such as PTSD, which often drive individuals to self-medicate with illicit drugs.
The work being done at UNM is part of a broader resurgence in psychedelic research, echoing similar initiatives at institutions like the University of Toronto and the University of Colorado, Denver. As this field continues to evolve, UNM’s studies are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of mental health treatment, offering new hope for individuals struggling with conditions that have been resistant to traditional therapies.People interested in participating can contact the research teams directly via email—[email protected] for the RECONNECT study, [email protected] for the uAspire trial, and [email protected] for studies involving MDMA and opioid use disorder. The studies are conducted at the Interdisciplinary Substance Use and Brain Injury Center (ISUBI) on UNM’s North Campus, which provides a safe and controlled environment for these intensive therapies.
