Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for Brain Cancer Related Existential Distress: A Case-Report
Journal of Palliative Medicine – September 12, 2024
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Remarkably, one patient with stage 4 brain cancer experienced partial relief from severe end-of-life distress through Psilocybin-assisted therapy. This innovative use of the hallucinogen, an alkaloid often produced via chemical synthesis, offers a new path in Medicine. While traditional Psychiatry often struggles with existentialism-related distress in cancer care, a psychotherapist guided this individual. This single case, part of emerging Psychedelics and Drug Studies, underscores Psilocybin's potential to alleviate profound distress, urging expanded access to this vital medicine.
Abstract
Introduction: Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) has gained traction in palliative care as a treatment for existential distress in the last decade. Patients with brain cancer have been excluded from studies, yet they stand to benefit as much as other patients with cancer-related psychological distress. Case description: In this report, we discuss the case of a patient with end-of-life distress secondary to stage 4 astrocytoma that received PAT through Health Canada's Special Access Program. The patient had a positive response to PAT without adverse events. Discussion: Standard treatment for existential distress is often inefficacious and PAT is rarely available, especially for patients with brain cancer. We highlight the importance of making PAT more available as many patients with unresolved existential distress resort to medical assistance in dying without ever knowing of the existence of PAT. Conclusion: PAT was effective in partially alleviating the patient's existential distress. Access to PAT needs to be expanded urgently.