A proposed trial will test whether adding a low, non-hallucinogenic dose of LSD to meaning-centred psychotherapy (MCP) is feasible for advanced cancer patients with anxiety or depression. Forty participants (20 Māori, 20 non-Māori) will receive seven MCP sessions plus either an LSD microdose (4-20 µg) or a placebo, under double-blind conditions. Outcomes include feasibility, acceptability, safety, and psychological measures at baseline, during treatment, and at one- and six-month follow-ups. The study aims to determine whether a full-scale trial is possible and to provide initial evidence on whether microdosing may enhance psychological care in this population.
A clinical trial will test whether MDMA-assisted therapy can reduce anxiety and depression in people with advanced-stage cancer. Up to 32 participants will be randomly assigned to receive either 120 mg of MDMA (with an optional 60 mg supplement) or a low dose of methylphenidate as a psychoactive control, each combined with therapeutic support sessions. The study will track mood, anxiety, quality of life, and other measures for up to 12 months. This research aims to establish the safety and effectiveness of a novel treatment for mental suffering in patients with life-threatening illness.