The psychedelic neuroplasticity and safety conundrum: Reaping the rewards of neuroplasticity with caution

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Evidence continues to build that serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocybin, DMT, and LSD promote neuroplasticity. Cortical atrophy is involved in the development of a broad swathe of neuropsychiatric conditions ranging from depression to substance use disorder. But it remains unclear how psychedelics may potentially treat mood disorders and other conditions. Despite their therapeutic potential, these compounds continue to remain unpopular in some quarters and could be contraindicated for many individuals even if they ultimately win regulatory approval.

Drug developers, such as Boston-based Delix Therapeutics and Onsero Therapeutics, aim to develop compounds that trigger neuroplasticity in what they deem to be a safer and more accessible therapeutic option than classic psychedelics.

Meanwhile, players such as Compass Pathways (Nasdaq:CMPS) and Small Pharma (CVE:DMT), are wo…

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Small Pharma Inc. plans Phase 2b trial of DMT for depression

Small Pharma Inc. (TSXV:DMT) is prepping a Phase 2b clinical study to test the use of its lead candidate, SPL026, an N, N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) in treating major depressive disorder (MDD).

DMT is present in Ayahuasca, a South American psychedelic brew.

The company has announced that it has had positive discussions with FDA regarding the planned trial.

“Importantly, the FDA’s feedback facilitates a path forward to prepare for the inclusion of U.S. sites in our Phase 2b clinical trial, which we anticipate will also be conducted across sites in Europe and the UK,” said Dr. Carol Routledge, chief medical and scientific officer of Small Pharma. “We believe that Small Pharma is conducting the first clinical trials of a DMT-assisted therapy for patients with MDD, with the potential to provide a much-needed alternative treatment for patients suffering from this debilitating condition.”

The company Small Pharma chose its name as a reaction to the phrase…

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