Northwell's Manhasset Feinstein Labs to Study Psychedelic Drugs

By Mark Demetropoulos

Northwell Health’s Feinstein Labs, located in Manhasset, announced the opening of the Center for Psychedelics Research and Treatment (CPRT), a new branch of the Feinstein Labs, which will be located at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Glen Oaks, Queens NY.

This Center will showcase a state-of-the-art clinical laboratory including driving simulator, modular bar as well as living spaces which shall imitate real life social environments; and shall include development of psychedelic science.

John Kane MD and Nehal Vadham PhD will oversee the study of psychedelic agents for severe mental health and substance use disorders.

They will lead the CPRT to develop new treatments for strenuous conditions such as schizophrenia, anxiety, alcohol and opioid use. Furthermore, shall address the scientific and public need to concentrate on therapeutic potential and potential impairing effects of compounds like THC (cannabis), psilocybin (mushrooms), MDMA (ecstasy) and ketamine.

Dr. Vanhan, an assistant professor at the Institute of Behavioral Science at Feinstein Institutes and Director of the Feinstein Family Neuropsychopharmacology Laboratory, will be the co-director of CPRT.

“This new facility and planned research are crucial for uncovering novel treatments for difficult-to-treat disorders and symptoms, impacting patients who suffer from conditions in desperate need of effective therapies,” stated Vahan. “We are committed to conducting careful and meaningful studies that will ultimately help educate patients on the pros and cons of these substances, their families and the public to increase knowledge and reduce stigma.”

The Feinstein Family Laboratory’s mission is for the ethical, safe and comprehensive assessment of the direct and long term effects of psychedelic drugs. 

The CPRT’s main focus will be in launching its clinical treatment program, and expanding its facilities establishing satellite programs across and beyond Northwell’s campuses.