Psychedelic Science 2024 conference recap — biggest findings and announcements

The biggest clinical news was the presentation of the full Phase 3 data from COMPASS Pathways for psilocybin (COMP360) in treatment-resistant depression. The Phase 3 results were positive — 29% remission vs. 8% in placebo at week 12, which is clinically significant. The FDA response to this data is now the critical next step. Also notable: multiple groups presented on psilocybin for alcohol use disorder with consistently positive signals across different research teams.

The neuroimaging track was exceptional this year. Multiple new studies using high-resolution fMRI showed detailed mapping of how psilocybin affects different brain networks, with new data on the DMN suppression timeline and how different session doses produce different connectivity patterns. The REBUS model (Relaxed Beliefs Under Psychedelics) got substantial new empirical support from several independent research groups.

Colorado's regulatory update was well-attended: DORA officials presented on the timeline for healing center licensure. Mid-to-late 2026 remains the target for first licensed centers. Colorado's unique legal framework (covering psilocybin, ibogaine, DMT, mescaline) generated significant discussion about how facilitators will be trained for multiple different substances with different therapeutic profiles.