The Future of Psychedelics: Why Next-Generation Molecules Will Win

The psychedelic industry stands at the cusp of a transformative era, propelled by the development of next-generation molecules with the potential to be more effective treatments for a host of indications without the traditional hallucinogenic effects. Companies like Enveric Biosciences, Delix Therapeutics, and Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals are at the forefront of this evolution, pioneering compounds that could redefine mental health treatment.

The Limitations of Traditional Psychedelics

Classic psychedelics such as psilocybin and LSD have shown potential in treating various psychiatric conditions. However, their hallucinogenic properties pose challenges, including the need for supervised administration and potential side effects that limit widespread adoption. These limitations have spurred the search for alternatives that retain therapeutic efficacy without inducing altered states of.

The pitfalls of first-generation psychedelics have been particularly evident in Lykos Therapeutics‘ recent struggles. In August 2024, the FDA issued a Complete Response Letter rejecting Lykos’ application for MDMA-assisted therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The decision was based on concerns about trial design, patient safety, and ethical violations, including instances of therapist misconduct and inadequate reporting of adverse effects.

This setback has prompted a strategic pivot within the industry, with companies now focusing on developing next-generation psychedelic compounds that mitigate the limitations of first-generation substances like MDMA and psilocybin. These novel compounds, often referred to as “Gen 3” molecules, are engineered to provide therapeutic benefits without inducing hallucinations, thereby enhancing safety profiles and broadening patient accessibility.

Delix Therapeutics: Pioneering Non-Hallucinogenic Psychoplastogens

Delix Therapeutics has emerged as a leader in developing non-hallucinogenic psychoplastogens. Their flagship compound, DLX-001, recently completed a Phase 1 clinical trial involving 106 healthy volunteers. The results demonstrated a favorable safety and tolerability profile, with no evidence of psychotomimetic, hallucinatory, or dissociative effects.

“These findings… support the continued evaluation of this first-in-class neuroplastogen for psychiatric conditions such as MDD in our ongoing Phase 1b study and forthcoming Phase 2 study.” — Dr. Aaron Koenig, Chief Medical Officer of Delix Therapeutics

Delix’s pipeline includes multiple next-generation neuroplastogens, which are being positioned as safe, scalable alternatives to traditional psychedelic-assisted therapy (Source: Delix Therapeutics Pipeline, February 2025).

Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals: Enhancing Safety and Efficacy

Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals is advancing the field with innovative compounds designed to enhance neuroplasticity without hallucinogenic effects. Their collaboration with AbbVie, announced in May 2024, underscores big pharma’s growing recognition of the potential of these next-generation treatments.

“Under this agreement, Gilgamesh and AbbVie will work together to develop a portfolio of next-generation therapies for psychiatric disorders.” — Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals Press Release, May 2024

This collaboration, valued at up to $2 billion, reflects big pharma’s increasing interest in novel neuropsychiatric treatments.

Enveric Biosciences’ EVM-401 Program: A Promising Contender

Enveric Biosciences is making significant strides with its EVM-401 program, focusing on novel neuroplastogens targeting psychiatric and neurological conditions. The company recently announced the issuance of a new patent for its EVM401 Series of mescaline derivative compounds, marking a major milestone in its research efforts to include Gen 3 and Gen 4 molecules.

“The development of the EVM401 Series underscores our commitment to creating safer, more effective treatments for mental health disorders.” — Joseph Tucker, CEO of Enveric Biosciences

While specific details about EVM-401’s development stages are still emerging, Enveric’s focus on non-hallucinogenic therapeutics aligns with the broader shift in the industry.

Big Pharma’s Growing Interest and the Best Molecule Wins

The AbbVie-Gilgamesh deal signals a major inflection point in the psychedelic industry, proving that big pharma is actively entering the space. Meanwhile, Delix’s upcoming Phase 1b and Phase 2 data readouts are highly anticipated and could catalyze significant interest in not just Delix, but also its competitors like Gilgamesh and Enveric. The race to develop the most effective and safest next-generation molecule is sure to intensify over the next year.

As Dr. George Goldsmith, industry expert and CEO of Compass Pathways, noted in a 2024 panel discussion:

“We’re seeing a fundamental shift where companies that can deliver scalable, non-hallucinogenic solutions will emerge as leaders in the mental health space.”

The future of the psychedelic industry is being reshaped by innovative companies like Enveric Biosciences, Delix Therapeutics, and Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals. Their development of non-hallucinogenic psychoplastogens and strategic collaborations with established pharmaceutical entities signal a paradigm shift in mental health treatment.

As these next-generation molecules progress through clinical trials, their success could usher in a new era of safe, effective, and accessible therapies for psychiatric disorders. The best molecule will win—the industry and investors are watching closely.