PSYCHEDELIC DRUGS IN PALLIATIVE CARE
August 12, 2019 Beatriz Martins, Afonso Homem de Matos, Manuel Sardinha
People receiving palliative care often experience depression and anxiety alongside physical suffering, and standard treatments may be insufficient. A review of four clinical trials found that a single dose of a psychedelic substance (such as psilocybin or LSD) produced noticeable improvements in depression and anxiety scores within days, with benefits lasting six to twelve months. No serious permanent side effects were reported, though some temporary non-severe events occurred. The rapid response is especially valuable for patients with short life expectancy who need urgent relief. Although evidence is limited by small sample sizes, combining psychedelics with psychotherapy appears a promising approach for treating depressive and anxiety symptoms in palliative care.