Psychedelic-induced psychosis is rare, occurring in less than 1% of users in controlled trials, but evidence on its treatment is limited. A systematic review of 93 cases from 1955 to 2024 found that LSD (47.3%) and MDMA (38.7%) were the most common substances involved, with an average patient age of 23.7 years and 88% male. Psychosis lasted about 1.8 weeks on average. Second-generation antipsychotics had a response rate of 91.3%, significantly higher than first-generation antipsychotics at 27%. Electroconvulsive therapy also showed a 91% response rate. Follow-up revealed 34% of patients later developed schizophrenia spectrum disorders and 20.4% bipolar disorder, though limited follow-up data constrain these findings.
A patient with throat cancer and severe existential distress safely received psychedelic-assisted therapy at home. The patient tolerated the intervention well and reported on measures of anxiety, depression, and distress. This single-case study aligns with previous findings suggesting that psychedelic-assisted therapy can be safely applied to potentially relieve existential distress in people with life-threatening conditions. Because this is one case, generalizations require caution; placebo effects, expectancy, and the natural course of illness may influence outcomes. Controlled trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety in diverse settings.