A SINGLE dose of MM120 (lysergide, a form of LSD) produced a significant and dose-dependent reduction in anxiety symptoms for adults with moderate to severe generalised anxiety disorder, according to results from a large phase 2b clinical trial. The best outcomes were seen at 100 micrograms, with rapid and lasting improvements and a favourable safety profile.
Generalised anxiety disorder affects millions and remains one of the most common psychiatric conditions, with many patients failing to respond adequately to current therapies. MM120 represents a new oral formulation of lysergic acid diethylamide, designed for clinical use and tested for its therapeutic activity in this setting.
Researchers enrolled 198 adults aged 18 to 74 with moderate to severe anxiety, randomising them to receive a single dose of MM120 at four strengths (25, 50, 100, or 200 micrograms) or placebo. Anxiety severity was measured using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) at baseline and regular intervals for up to 12 weeks. The 100 and 200 microgram doses led to statistically significant and clinically meaningful reductions in HAM-A scores at four weeks compared to placebo, with the 100 microgram group showing a mean decrease of 7.6 points more than placebo and sustained clinical response in 65 percent of participants. Remission rates reached 48 percent at 12 weeks. Adverse events, mainly transient changes in perception, mild nausea and headache, were dose-dependent and occurred on dosing day, with no serious or unexpected effects.
These results suggest that a single, carefully administered dose of MM120 may offer rapid relief for people with severe anxiety, with effects lasting several weeks and manageable side effects. Clinicians should watch ongoing phase 3 trials for confirmation and guidance on dosing. If further validated, MM120 could become a valuable new option for those who do not respond to current medicines.
Reference
Robison R et al. Single treatment with MM120 (Lysergide) in generalized anxiety disorder: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2025;DOI:10.1001/jama.2025.13481.
