LSD Pill Halts Anxiety in Landmark Study

Definium Therapeutics reported on Wednesday that its experimental LSD-based pill, DT120, achieved its primary objective in a late-stage study. The 214-patient trial demonstrated that a single 100-microgram dose of the lysergide tablet significantly reduced anxiety symptoms in adults diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Patients receiving DT120 experienced an 11.6-point decrease on a standard anxiety rating scale after 12 weeks, substantially more than the 6.2-point drop observed in the placebo group. This placebo-adjusted difference of 5.4 points was deemed statistically significant and clinically meaningful. The therapeutic effects were noted as early as two days post-dosing and were sustained throughout the 12-week duration of the study.

This advancement highlights the potential of psychedelic medicines. Definium's shares have more than tripled this year, buoyed by enthusiasm for such therapies. The U.S. government has also shown support, with an executive order aiming to expedite research and treatment access for psychedelic drugs in mental health. Unlike typical anxiety medications requiring regular intake, DT120 is designed for single-dose administration in a monitored setting.

The trial's results followed a positive readout from a depression study for DT120 in June. Most reported side effects were mild, moderate, and temporary, occurring primarily on the day of dosing, with no observed increase in suicidal thoughts. This marks Definium's second late-stage success for DT120.