A patient with persistent somatoform pain disorder and recurrent depressive disorder underwent four sessions of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy. The intervention was associated with reduced negative impact of pain on daily life, increased pain acceptance, improved quality of life, and fewer depressive symptoms. The case suggests that psychedelics combined with psychotherapy may offer a novel approach to chronic pain treatment, though controlled studies are needed.
Psychedelics are being investigated as a new therapeutic approach for chronic pain. They can influence the serotonergic system, which affects central pain sensitization. Ketamine, already used for chronic pain, can reduce pain, but more studies are needed on its long-term effectiveness. Classic psychedelics are also drawing interest for their potential analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and functional effects, though research is limited. These findings encourage further investigation.