Studying classic psychedelics for the management of headache disorders: Considerations for Veterans
Journal of Military Veteran and Family Health December 1, 2023 Emmanuelle A.D. Schindler, Jason J. Sico
Patients with headache disorders like migraine or cluster headache often have poor quality of life, and military members and Veterans are at high risk, especially due to head trauma. Available treatments may not work, have side effects, or be unaffordable. Psychedelics have been discussed as a treatment for over 50 years; patients report that LSD and psilocybin provide long-lasting relief for weeks or months after just a single or few doses. Formal studies are beginning, and first results for psilocybin in migraine and cluster headache are encouraging but small and not conclusive. Veterans have been active in the re-emergence of psychedelics but may not all be able or willing to participate in studies due to health conditions or military viewpoints.