Digital Intervention for Psychedelic Preparation (DIPP): Comparing Meditation and Music-Based Programs

Launched by UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, LONDON · Feb 3, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The Digital Intervention for Psychedelic Preparation (DIPP) trial is studying how well two different types of self-guided programs—one focused on meditation and the other on music—can help prepare healthy individuals for a psychedelic experience using psilocybin, a substance found in certain mushrooms. Over 21 days, participants will either meditate or listen to music daily before taking part in a supervised session at University College London. The trial will look at how many people join and stick with the program, as well as how helpful and easy the participants find the digital platform.

To join this trial, participants must be between 21 and 65 years old, have limited experience with psychedelics, and have minimal meditation practice. They should also be English speakers living in the UK with access to a smartphone. Those with significant mental health issues, certain medical conditions, or who have recently used certain medications or other drugs may not be eligible. After the preparation period, participants will have a follow-up check two weeks later and some online assessments at 3, 6, and 9 months. This trial is a chance to explore how different preparation methods might impact the psychedelic experience and overall well-being.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Aged 21-65 years. Limited psychedelic use (0-5 sessions involving a high/full dose, defined as producing noticeable psychoactive effects beyond microdosing; none in the past 6 months).
• • Minimal meditation experience (≤10 sessions exceeding 30 minutes; no retreats or regular practice).
• • Native English speaking. Normal or corrected-to-normal colour vision. Able and willing to provide informed consent. Able to engage with all study requirements, including in-person and remote sessions.
• • UK resident registered with a primary care practice. Agree to allow research team contact with primary/secondary care teams if needed.
• • Access to mobile smartphone.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Current or past psychiatric diagnosis (e.g., depression, anxiety) unless in clear remission for at least 5 years and assessed as low-risk.
• • Current or past psychotic or bipolar disorder diagnosis. First degree relative with psychotic or bipolar disorder diagnosis. Current or past behaviours, including attempts, planning or intention. Medically significant physical health conditions (e.g., cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, epilepsy, migraines, focal scalp sensitivity, or any condition posing a safety risk).
• • Use of medications interacting with psilocybin (e.g., antipsychotics, SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, mood stabilisers).
• • Psychoactive drug use within 30 days (except nicotine or caffeine). Pregnancy, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Participation in a drug trial within 6 months. MRI contraindications (e.g., metal implants, pacemakers, severe claustrophobia).