New results from a clinical trial reveal that a single dose of psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in mushrooms, can provide sustained reductions in depression and anxiety in individuals with cancer suffering from major depressive disorder
People with cancer often struggle with depression, adding to an already difficult time. However, a phase 2 trial has revealed that a single dose of psilocybin offers long-term relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety.
The findings are detailed in Wiley Online’s CANCER journal.
Psilocybin has a long history of use
Psilocybin is a chemical found in certain types of mushrooms and is part of a group of drugs called psychedelics. The compound has been used for centuries, with evidence of its use dating back to 3000 BC; now, there is a new surge in its popularity with researchers trialling its use for conditions such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), addiction, pain, and neurodegenerative disorders.
When a person ingests psilocybin, their body metabolises it into another substance, psilocin. Psilocin then binds to and activates serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly the 5HT2a receptor. This activation alters the brain’s activity patterns, leading to a profound change in consciousness.
Reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms
The results of the phase 2 trial were striking, with significant reductions in both depression and anxiety observed in the majority of patients. This promising outcome offers hope for a new, effective treatment option for cancer patients struggling with these debilitating conditions.
Researchers conducted a phase 2 trial to demonstrate the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of a single dose of psilocybin combined with psychological support in a community cancer setting in 28 patients with cancer and major depressive disorder.
Out of 28 patients in the study, 15 (about 54%) showed a significant drop in depression symptoms after taking psilocybin, with scores improving by an average of 15 points. For 14 of them (50%), the improvement lasted over time. Similarly, 13 patients (about 46%) had a significant decrease in anxiety symptoms, with an average improvement of nearly 14 points. Of those, 12 (43%) experienced lasting anxiety relief.
These results demonstrate the potential of a single 25 mg dose of psilocybin, when combined with psychotherapy, to significantly reduce depression symptoms. This promising finding suggests that psilocybin could offer a powerful new alternative to traditional antidepressants, sparking further interest and research in this area.
Psilocybin has a long-term positive effect on cancer patients
The researchers are currently conducting an ongoing randomised, double-blind trial to evaluate the effects of up to two doses of 25 mg of psilocybin versus placebo on depression and anxiety in cancer patients. This study aims to build on the findings of the single-dose trial and determine if multiple doses can bring a larger majority of patients into remission of depression and anxiety.
“One dose of psilocybin with psychological support to treat depression has a long-term positive impact on relieving depression for as much as 2 years for a substantial portion of patients with cancer, and we’re exploring whether repeating the treatment resolves depression for more than half of the patients,” said lead author Manish Agrawal, MD, of Sunstone Therapies. “If randomised testing shows similar results, this could lead to greater use of psilocybin to treat depression in patients with cancer.”
