Tackling Depression With Psychedelics: New Phase 2 Clinical Study Begins At Yale University

Canadian-based psychedelics biopharma company Algernon Pharmaceuticals Inc. AGNPF has signed an investigator-initiated clinical trial agreement with Yale University -a recurring type of alliance within the psychedelics space- for the study of multiple intravenous (IV) doses of DMT for the treatment of depression.

The novel trial will be led by experienced DMT researcher Dr. Deepak Cyril D’Souza, professor of psychiatry and director of the schizophrenia neuropharmacology research group at Yale's school of medicine. 

“After careful consideration, we chose to support Dr. D’Souza’s clinical DMT study and work with Yale University,” said Algernon’s CEO, Christopher J. Moreau.  

“A rising tide lifts all boats, and we feel a corporate responsibility as well to improve global awareness and support psychedelic medicine research when possible."  

Dr. D’Souza said the trial will enhance current understanding.

“The study may enhance our current understanding of the dosing regimen in the subjective effects induced by DMT.”

The clinical study will test the effect of Algernon’s proprietary cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practices) DMT by comparing different dosages and constant infusion dosing regimens of the tryptamine drug in healthy control participants and individuals with depression. 

If results are positive, the company will own the IP rights of the clinical use of DMT as well as the possibility to negotiate licenses corresponding to this technology. 

Although treatment of psychiatric disorders with DMT is not Algernon’s current focus; the company holds patents pending on novel forms of DMT that could potentially be used across a broad range of diseases, including an ongoing DMT for stroke research programs, which will potentially be benefited from the present trial.

Photo courtesy of CDC on Pexels and Jynto on Wikimedia Commons.