Rapid and sustained symptom reduction following psilocybin treatment for anxiety and depression in patients with life-threatening cancer: a randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Clinically significant anxiety and depression are common in patients with cancer, and are associated with poor psychiatric and medical outcomes. Historical and recent research suggests a role for psilocybin to treat cancer-related anxiety and depression.

Methods

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial, 29 patients with cancer-related anxiety and depression were randomly assigned and received treatment with single-dose psilocybin (0.3 mg/kg) or niacin, both in conjunction with psychotherapy. The primary outcomes were anxiety and depression assessed between groups prior to the crossover at 7 weeks.

Results

Prior to the crossover, psilocybin produced immediate, substantial, and sustained improvements in anxiety and depression and led to decre

SUBMITTER: Ross S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5367551 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature