Feeling groovy? The present and future of psychedelic research in palliative care.
Palliat Med November 8, 2025
The article reviews the current state and future prospects of psychedelic research in palliative care. It describes how psychedelic-assisted therapy may help address existential distress, anxiety, and depression in patients with serious illness. The authors suggest that compounds such as psilocybin and MDMA, when combined with psychological support, show promise for improving quality of life and spiritual well-being at the end of life. They discuss ongoing clinical trials, regulatory challenges, and the need for larger, more diverse studies. The piece also considers potential barriers to integration into standard palliative care, including training requirements and public perception.