Story perspectives

Psilocybin Trial Helps Cocaine Users Quit, Placebo Fails

5/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Dr Peter Hendricks, a U.S. professor, led a trial where psilocybin helped 19 cocaine users abstain versus 17 on placebo.
The placebo group received diphenhydramine and attended sessions to process the experience.
Researchers said no FDA-approved drug exists for cocaine addiction and UN data show drug-related deaths are rising worldwide.
Robin Carhart-Harris linked psilocybin to increased neuroplasticity, while Gabrielle Agin-Liebes called it a catalyst for perspective and self-compassion.

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Story summary

Dr Peter Hendricks, a U.S. professor, led a trial where psilocybin helped 19 cocaine users abstain versus 17 on placebo.
The placebo group received diphenhydramine and attended sessions to process the experience.
Researchers said no FDA-approved drug exists for cocaine addiction and UN data show drug-related deaths are rising worldwide.
Robin Carhart-Harris linked psilocybin to increased neuroplasticity, while Gabrielle Agin-Liebes called it a catalyst for perspective and self-compassion.