Seven Irish people are involved in the trial, which was suspended due to the Covid-19 outbreak but is due to resume shortly. More extensive testing is planned for later this year, with an increased number of subjects and increased doses.
Subjects undertake three “preparation sessions” with a therapist before coming in to take the drug. They are then given a dose of 1mg, 10mg or 25mg of psilocybin; it is a double-blind study meaning neither the researchers nor subjects know who receives what dose. At least one therapist stays with the subject for the duration of “the experience” before they are sent home with a relative or close friend. This is followed by at least three more therapy sessions. “It’s quiet intense. There’s a lot to it,” said Dr Kelly.