A meta-analysis of five clinical trials found that psilocybin is superior to placebo for reducing end-of-life anxiety symptoms. Psilocybin reduced state anxiety at 1 day and 2 weeks after treatment, and trait anxiety at 1 day, 2 weeks, and 6 months after treatment. Psilocybin caused a temporary increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared with placebo. There were no significant differences between psilocybin and placebo in rates of stopping treatment, serious adverse events, or heart rate. The authors conclude that psilocybin-assisted therapy can improve end-of-life anxiety without serious side effects, but note the small sample sizes and high heterogeneity in long-term outcomes.
A meta-analysis of ten studies found that one or two doses of psilocybin produce rapid and sustained antidepressant effects lasting up to six months. Depressive symptoms decreased substantially, with the largest effect at one week (standardized mean difference -1.74) and a still-large effect at six months (-1.12). Higher doses and two sessions were linked to greater improvement. Psilocybin raised systolic blood pressure by 19.00 mmHg and diastolic by 8.66 mmHg, but discontinuation rates and heart rate changes were similar to placebo. The findings suggest psilocybin has favorable cardiovascular safety and acceptability for treating depression.