Psilocybin-assisted therapy for individuals with palliative care needs: A systematic review of safety and efficacy

Psilocybin-assisted therapy resulted in clinically significant reductions in depression and anxiety for 57-79% of participants in palliative care settings.

• Six studies involving 74 participants showed that psilocybin-assisted therapy can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety in patients with severe chronic illnesses.
• Participants experienced a symptom reduction of at least 50% on standardized scales such as the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).
• Improvements in mood and anxiety symptoms were sustained for 6 to 8 months in most trials, and some effects lasted up to 4.5 years in a follow-up study.
• The therapy was associated with generally mild and transient adverse effects, including nausea and temporary increases in blood pressure and heart rate.
• No serious adverse events were reported during the trials.

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