Psilocybin Offers Fast Anxiety Relief for Cancer Patients in New Trials
Psilocybin, when paired with psychotherapy, could offer rapid relief for cancer patients struggling with anxiety and depression. Recent studies suggest the compound may work faster than traditional treatments, though researchers stress the need for long-term care strategies alongside its use.
Scientists have spent years examining how psilocybin might ease psychiatric distress in cancer patients. Early work by Charles S. Grob at UCLA helped establish safe dosing ranges for supervised sessions. Later, Roland R. Griffiths at Johns Hopkins led a 2016 trial showing a single high dose could quickly reduce anxiety and depression in cancer patients, shaping modern protocols.
Stephen Ross at NYU Langone contributed to randomised trials using similar single-session dosing with psychotherapy support. Meanwhile, Robin Carhart-Harris at Imperial College London studied medium to high doses, influencing how psilocybin is now used in oncology trials. Their combined findings point to 0.3 milligrams per kilogram of body weight as the most effective dose for relieving both conditions. This dose not only provided immediate relief but also maintained its effect on anxiety for at least two weeks. Psilocybin works by targeting serotonin receptors in the brain, which may explain its faster impact compared to conventional therapies. However, researchers warn that challenges remain, including functional unblinding in studies and the need for further trials to confirm dosing recommendations.
The findings highlight psilocybin’s potential as a short-term therapy in palliative care. With sustained anxiety reduction observed for two weeks, it could become a valuable tool alongside existing treatments. Yet, ongoing research is essential to refine its use and address remaining scientific hurdles.
